Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different kinds of natural stone?

Natural Stone product include Granite, Marble, Limestone, Travertine, Slate, Quartzite, Sandstone, and Onyx.

What is Natural Stone?

"Natural Stone" refers to a number of products quarried from the earth, used over many thousands of years as building materials and decorative enhancements. These products include Granite, Marble, Limestone, Travertine, Slate, Quartzite, Sandstone, Adoquin, Onyx and others. They are more than just rocks – natural stone is hand selected from the best, most consistent sources for durability and beauty.

Where in my home can I use natural stone?

Natural Stone can be used on nearly every surface both inside and outside the home, including floors, kitchen countertops, vanity tops, bathrooms, patios, walkways, fireplaces, facades, wall cladding, and garden landscaping.

Why can some finishes not be used outside?

Some types of stone are better suited for interior applications than exterior because they cannot withstand harsh weather extremes and may crack, crumble or fade. Also, stones with naturally slip – resistant surfaces are better for outdoor walkways or patios than those with smooth, polished surfaces. Some multicolored slates bleed color upon contact with water.

Where do natural stones come from?

Natural stones are quarried directly from the earth’s crust, and every piece is unique. The only processing they need is shaping into various forms, sizes and finishes.

Why are most natural stones imported?

Sources of natural stone with desirable qualities are found all over the world, in many different locations. Some sources are better than others due to the stones’ appearance, hardness, and other qualities. Therefore, stone may be quarried in China, India, Africa, South America, and some does come from within the United States borders.

What thickness is used for kitchen countertops?

The thickness of a kitchen countertop is generally either 0.75” or 1.25”. In the eastern U.S. the larger thickness is preferred, and western consumers prefer the thinner.

What is thickness tolerance for different types of stone?

Thickness tolerance varies from stone to stone. Slates generally have a tolerance of 0.38”, and granite tiles have a tolerance of 0.06”.

Why is a honed finish so popular for homes?

A honed finish creates a soft, matte, appearance that is more suited to casusal, comfortable enviroments than a formal polished surface.

Why are some stones more expensive than others?

Stones that are harder and denser are more difficult and expensive to quarry and process. Quarrying methods vary as well; stones may be quarried below ground, which is more expensive than above ground. Also, since natural stone is quarried all over the world, long distance shipping factors into the price.

Why are bigger sizes more expensive?

The larger the stone, the more difficult it is to process, handle, pack, and transport. Larger sizes also tend to have a higher amount of waste compared to the part that is used, which makes them more expensive.

Do I get lower prices for larger quantity?

The availability of a particular stone is the most important factor in determining price. However, handling and transportation cost does drop slightly for a larger quantity. The best way to reduce cost is to find a stone dealer who is running a special on a particular product.

Do granite slabs or granite tiles emit harmful radiation?

Granite tiles and slabs for commercial and residential applications do not emit harmful radiation. For more information, consult the Marble Institute of America’s website.

Why is Granite preferred for kitchen and bar countertops?

Countertops in kitchens and bar areas are often exposed to acidic substances such as lemon, vinegar, alcohol, and tomato sauce. Knives, dishes, pots, pans, and other implements may cause scratching or lesser materials. Granite is the hardest and densest of all natural stones. The feldspar content of the stone keeps it water resistant, and the silicates it contains won’t react with acid. These properties help granite resist staining and retain its fine luster over a longer period of time than ceramic tiles or other stones.

How does Granite countertops differ from Corian countertops?

Granite is a natural stone, and Corian is a man – made material. As a plastic based material, Corian is more prone to scratching, deformation and loss of finish due to heat damage. Granite is more durable, easy to maintain, resistant to scratches and stains – and much more appealing to the eye. Granite is available in a wider range of colors than Corian, and costs less as well.