Granite, Marble and Engineered Stone
In order to provide an accurate estimate, we will require a layout drawing of the room or rooms being considered, showing the overall dimensions of the cabinets. Please clearly mark the locations of the sink (drop-in or undermount,) stove or cooktop, dishwasher and refrigerator. Depicting where walls are would also be helpful, allowing us to see which edges will be exposed and therefore, need to be polished. At this point, if you know the material you want, the edge detail and the backsplash type, we will be able to provide a reasonably accurate quote, based on your measurements. Otherwise, we can provide a ballpark estimate for material, edging and backsplash options.
There is certainly no shortage of colors or materials to choose from when entering this phase of the process! This decision is not to be rushed or taken lightly and we will work side-by-side with you to answer any questions you may have, provide guidance when needed and ultimately select the stone that's right for you.
Once the material selection process has concluded, the next step is templating. Templates give us the pattern for what the finished product will be. Other than the largest jobs, this process can normally be completed within one day. It is essential that all cabinets be set and secure and all end panels and/or trim panels be installed. At the time of templating, we will need to have the sink, faucet, faucet accessories and stove or cooktop information on site and available for pickup.
For new construction projects, if the contractor sets the cabinetry at the beginning of the trim stage, we can fabricate your counter tops while the trim carpentry and other trades are finishing. This also applies to remodeling projects when new cabinets are being installed.
For remodeling projects where only the counter tops are being replaced and the existing cabinetry is being retained, the counter tops must be removed for templating to occur. This will require disconnecting your sink as well. If you are replacing laminate counter tops, the spacers underneath will also need to be removed. Removal of the counter top allows us to make accurate templates showing the cabinet lines, sink placement and stove or cooktop placement for your new counter tops. Repairs that may need to be done to the cabinets can also be done at this time.
Fabrication time can vary depending on the size of the project but typically lasts 2-3 weeks. Changes made once the fabrication process has begun can result in additional charges and delays in the schedule.
For an installation involving new construction, we typically install the counter tops once the painters have finished. Most installations are finished within one day. A standard 4" backsplash can be installed at this time as well. If a full backsplash is being used, we will measure for it at the time of installation and return another day to install the backsplash. The sink will need to be at the job site at the time of installation, so that we can mount it to the counter top. Once all of the counter tops and backsplash have been installed, we will finish the seams (if applicable) and caulk underneath the stone at the cabinets.
For remodel installations, the existing counter tops will need to be removed once again. The installation is typically completed within one day. A return trip to install the backsplash may be necessary if a full backsplash is selected or the height is to be determined by the previous backsplash height. Once all of the counter top and backsplash pieces have been set, we will finish the seams (if applicable) and caulk underneath the stone at the cabinets.
In some instances, a customer will wish to keep their existing tile backsplash. In this event, there will be a gap between the existing splash and the new counter top. Laminate counter tops are usually 1 1/2" thick while 3cm granite is 1 1/4" thick. We cannot safely shim the 1/4" distance. A 1/4" piece of filler can be installed by the homeowner along the entire surface area of the cabinetry.
Seams are an inevitable part of many granite counter top installations. The Stone Works, LLC takes great care in minimizing seam appearance; however, we cannot make them disappear. By using a chamfer at the seam, we help prevent chipping and create a channel for the seam filler.
Your new granite counter tops are sealed prior to installation. While the sealer won't make the stone stain proof, it will provide you with extra time to clean up whatever you spill on the counter top. Acidic foods are the worst offenders. Don't use any gritty, abrasive or acidic cleaning products either, such as a vinegar-based window cleaner. Simply wipe up a spill with a wet sponge or cotton rag right away. You may use warm, soapy water to clean your counter top on a daily basis. Follow up with a dry towel to help eliminate streaking and soap residue build-up. If you prefer, we also offer a product available for purchase specifically for your counter top that will help maintain the luster and sealant.
There is no standard length of time between sealer applications. Generally, when water no longer beads on the surface, it's time to reseal. This can easily be accomplished by simply mopping the sealer on the surface with a white cloth rag, letting it soak into the stone for a short period of time, then wiping the excess off with a clean, dry, white cloth rag. We would be happy to direct you to a proper product to use.