FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
We have provided a list of questions and answers below to address some of the most common topics relating to our products and services. If you can’t find an answer to your question here, please call us at 778-574-2121 we are happy to help!
SELECTION & ORDER PROCESS
What are the options of finished thickness of the stone?
Common thickness of a solid stone countertop is 1 1/4″ where the front of the countertop is solid. Therefore we offer different thicknesses such as 3/4″ stone where we laminate the stone and the result is 1 1/2″ thickness. Anything with thicker edge is reffered to as a custom product.
Can you give me the price over the phone?
In order to serve you right, we need to have drawings of your project ( even hand drawings are perfect), material you would like to use, along with job site address and contact information. Once we have all these details, we can provide the precise estimate.
What material is better suited for a kitchen countertop? Quartz or granite?
Either option would be a good choice. Quartz is an engineered stone while granite is a natural stone. Granite needs to be “sealed”, while quartz doesn’t. Every shipment of granite is different and unique created by nature versus uniform quartz. The final choice depends on your personal preference and needs.
What is the next step after having selected the materials?
We can provide you with an estimate after reviewing all the needed information. Once we have received the approval, we will sign a contract with you stating all the project details. We will come to take the necessary measurements using laser technology (which ensures counters perfect fit), after the cabinets have been installed.
MAINTENANCE & SEALING
Please note that if your countertop is a natural stone product we recommend that you re-seal your stone surface.
How often should I re-seal my counters?
Natural stone is a porous material. Different colors have different porosities. Lighter colors are more porous than darker colors, and should therefore be sealed more often. We recommend sealing your counters at least once a year.
What product should I use?
Countertops should be sealed prior to installation. Each company may use a different product. We recommend you to re-apply the same brand of sealer. If you do not know what brand sealer was used then the counter needs to be thoroughly cleaned using a special cleaner. Then re-seal with your new sealer product.
How to seal?
Before re-sealing your counters, you need to make sure that your counters are clean and completely dry. You can use either a sponge or rag to cover your counters with the sealer. Leave the sealer on the surface for about 30 minutes so that the sealer can penetrate the pores in the stone. Finally buff the counter to remove the access sealer until a nice shine appears.
Can I cut directly on stone surface?
We do not recommend cutting directly on the counters. First off, the knife will get dull much quicker, and you may possibly harm your counter. Please use a cutting board.
How to clean the countertops and natural stone?
For daily cleaning, please use only warm water with dish soap and wipe out the entire area with a soft cloth.
Never apply wax or acrylics to your natural stone. They may produce a temporary shine but could actually damage the stone.
Any chemical components should never be used as they can destroy shine of countertops.
ATTENTION:
- Wipe out spills immediately to avoid stains;
- Avoid cutting directly on stone countertops;
- Avoid dragging pots and pans to prevent scratches;
- DO NOT use ammonia-based cleaner. Ammonia – based cleaners tend to break the sealer on granite;
- Avoid using metal scouring pads, as they may cause rust stains.
- Please contact us if you are not sure how to clean your countertops or which product to use. We can also provide you a sealer that you can safely use on your natural stone surfaces – call us at 778-574-2121 to find out more!
MATERIAL & THICKNESS SELECTION
What counter thickness can I get?
The front edge of your countertops can be any thickness you desire. We suggest you to take into consideration the height of your cabinets so that the total height would not be too low nor too high. The standard height of cabinets WITH counters installed is 36″.
What material can I use for kitchen counters?
The most popular materials are Granite and Engineered Stone. They are both durable and strong. Marble and Limestone can also be used for kitchens but you need to take into consideration that these materials are very soft and not as durable.
- Engineered Stone:
Man-made product with 93%- 97%Â crushed quartz and 7%-3% resin bonding components. This product doesn’t need to be sealed. We call it a “low maintenance”material. - Granite:
Natural Stone product. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and unique. All granites needs to sealed. - Marble, Limestone:
because these are softer materials, we recommend that you hone or acid wash them to prevent etching of the shine. That applies in case you are looking for a dull look in your counters.
What material can I use for washroom counters?
You can use any material, whether it’s natural or engineered stone, marble or limestone. If using marble or limestone be sure to clean your counters daily as products like toothpaste and shaving cream can etch the shine off your countertops.
What material can I use for washroom floors?
You can use stone for the flooring of your washroom and/or shower. Be sure that it is not polished but rather honed, acid washed, or sand blasted to prevent a slippery surface.