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FAQ
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What is the difference between Quartz manufacturers?Each Quartz manufacturer has its own unique process and colours
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Is quartz scratch/stain/heat resistant?Quartz is heat resistant but not heatproof. We do not recommend placing a boiling pot on the countertop as this will scratch the surface. Most surface stains can be polished out or eliminated with the appropriate cleaning products.
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Why are they different price groups, does it have to do with quality?Price is not a reflection of quality. Price is based on how difficult it is to manufacture a particular colour and the popularity of the colour.
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How do I remove a stain from white quartz?A common stain can be removed with rubbing alcohol, granite cleaner, or household bleach
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Can quartz be leathered?The finish can be changed, but it is more of a honed (matte) finish that is not heavily textured.
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Is quartz more expensive?Just like any stone, the cost varies depending on the slab selected. We carry a large selection to meet all budget needs.
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Is quartz or granite better?Quartz and granite are very comparable therefore customers should select the stone based on the colour and pattern they prefer. Quartz is consistent in pattern and colour, requires no maintenance, and is scratch/stain/heat resistant. Granite does require maintenance; however, the pattern tends to have more life and character to it, making it more of a focal point piece. Granite is also scratch and heat-resistant .
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What do the different groups mean?Groups are determined by the rarity of the stone not the quality or durability. The stone retails for more if the material is harder to source.
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What kind of maintenance is required?We recommend resealing every 1-2 years depending on how your countertop is used and the type of stone you have. To determine if a reseal is necessary simply spray water randomly over your countertop, if the water beads on the surface your sealer is still ok otherwise you need to reseal.
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When are there limitations on edges?Some minerals and deposits in the stone are more likely to chip. For example, a stone with a lot of mica would be more prone to chipping. For this reason, we limit the edges to ones that will ensure your stone is strong and durable.
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Can I choose how the stone will be cut?If there is a certain area of the slab that you would like to avoid/include in your countertop we will try to accommodate your request.
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Is it as strong as quartz?Granite and quartz are comparable in terms of their durability. As long as your granite is maintained properly (sealed once every 1-2 years and cleaned without the use of abrasive products) it will be scratch/stain/heat resistant just like any quartz.
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How easy is it to crack or chip? How/can these be repaired? Is there a cost for this?Granite does not crack or chip easily. Most chips can be filled with epoxy, and cracks, or open fissures can usually be repaired on-site. Both services are hardly noticeable once complete. A service fee may apply depending on the cause of the crack or chip.
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Can older homes or older cabinetry support the weight of stone?Granite weighs approximately 18-20 lbs per sq. ft., quartz weighs about 15 lbs per sq. ft. Most kitchen cabinets can support the weight of the countertop.
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Can any slab be leathered and does that affect the quality or durability?Most granites can be leathered or honed, this will not affect the quality or durability of the stone.
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Can I use marble in my kitchen?We do not recommend using marble in kitchens because it scratches and stains very easily. While it may look stunning, it isn’t necessarily practical.
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Can I seal my marble, so it won’t stain?Marble is extremely porous and soft; the seal will only protect the stone to a certain degree. The seal will not protect against etching or scratching.
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What’s the difference between granite and marble?Granite tends to have structures that are harder and more durable, whereas marble tends to have softer and less durable structures.
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Is marble cheaper than granite?It depends on the granite and the marble that you are comparing. The cost of each stone is dependent on the rarity of the stone
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What is marble mainly used for?Marble is perfect for fireplace surrounds, wall features and vanities.
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What maintenance is required?We recommend resealing a marble countertop once a year to make sure it stands up to everyday use. Wall features do not require any maintenance.
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How do I refinish my marble countertop?We recommend hiring a qualified professional to refinish your Marble surface.
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Does the thickness affect the durability?Thickness only affects the durability if the Porcelain is used for a countertop.
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Does porcelain chip or crack?Like all other solid surfaces, Porcelain can chip or crack.
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Can this stone be used for countertops?Certain types of porcelain can be used for countertops however the porcelain must be glued to a granite as a sub-straight. Some manufacturers avoid this process by manufacturing thicker pieces.
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Why doesn’t the pattern run through the thickness of the slabPorcelain is a manmade material manufactured by imprinting a photo image onto the surface of the material. You are limited to a mitered edge for countertops so as not to highlight the change in the material throughout the thickness.
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What thickness is it available in?Depending on the supplier the thickness can range from 6mm to ¾” thick.
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Why is it so expensive?Extra steps and time are required in the transportation, fabrication, and installation because Porcelain is very thin.
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What stone is appropriate for outdoor use and in what application?Select granites can be used for countertops and wall features in covered areas. To improve the durability and lifespan of the stone we recommend covering your stone surfaces in the winter months and treating your stone every six months. Exposure to outdoor elements may result in fading, warping and cracking.
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