ProGranite Solutions strives for excellent quality, efficiency and communication.
What kinds of finishes are available in natural stone?
Marbles and granites are typically shipped from quarries with a polished, or shiny, face. Limestones are usually available in a “honed” finish, which is smooth to the touch, but not shiny. Limestones can also come in tumbled or distressed textures depending on current availabilities. If you’d like a more natural finish, but do not want to use limestone for your project, we can remove the polish on any marble or granite to give it a honed finish.
What kinds of edge details are available?
We can do any kind of edge detail that you can imagine… from the simplest straight polished edge to an elaborately detailed edge. Our most popular edges are straight, crescent, half-bullnose, and full-bullnose.
What thicknesses are available in natural stone?
Granite slabs are available in two thicknesses; 2cm and 3cm. Marble and limestone slabs are readily available in 2cm and can sometimes be found in 3cm depending on color selection and current availability. If a thicker look is desired we can laminate, or glue, several slabs of stone together until the desired thickness is obtained. Granite, marble and limestone tiles are typically 3/8″ thick.
What is the difference between an “undermount” sink and a topmount sink? Is there a cost difference for the type of cutout required?
A topmount sink has a lip that folds over the countertop, and it rests on top of the cutout. An undermount sink rests below the granite/marble material so that a polished edge of granite, marble, etc. is exposed above the sink. An undermount sink cutout requires more polishing and installation labor than a drop-in sink cutout, hence an undermount is more costly than a topmount sink.
How heavy is granite or marble and will my cabinets support it?
Granite and marble are roughly 6 pounds per square foot, per centimeter of thickness. For example, a 2cm slab of granite weighs approximately 12 pounds per square foot and a 3cm slab weighs approximately 18 pounds per square foot. Any cabinet that is well constructed and properly set will support the weight of natural stone countertops.
Do I need support brackets for my raised bar or overhang?
We recommend using support brackets for any granite or marble overhang that exceeds 10″, and require brackets for overhangs 12″ or wider. The length of the brackets should be roughly 3″ less than the total overhang width and should be placed approximately every 3 or 4 feet.
Can my plumber use “plumber’s putty” on my stonework to adhere the sinks and faucets?
Absolutely not! Plumber’s putty can quickly ruin natural stone tops, as stated on the back of the package. Your plumber should use 100% silicone in place of plumber’s putty.
Do I need to “seal” my stonework?
We seal all slab-work, i.e. countertops, tabletops, fireplace surrounds, etc., prior to installation with an impregnator sealer. This sealer soaks into the stone to help guard against staining and does not change the appearance of the stone. The sealer needs to be reapplied every three to five years through a very simple process.
Will my countertops have visible seams?
Depending on your cabinet layout, your tops will potentially have visible seams due to size limitations of the material. We try to put the seams in the least conspicuous areas and will be happy to discuss them with you prior to fabrication. However, depending on the material color there is a chance the seam will be appear invisible. Moreover, most seams are done at the sink line.
Does granite require special care?
Marble and granite are easier to maintain than you might expect. Warm water, mild dishwashing liquid and a soft cloth clean up most spills on both surfaces.
Granite is a worry-free surface, requiring few special precautions. It is extremely durable, stain-resistant and easy to care for. Hot pots and pans won’t damage it. It won’t chip, crack or scratch under normal use. Cutting boards are recommended when slicing bread, meats or vegetables to protect your knives from becoming dull.
Generally, how does the cost compare to other surfaces?
Initially, marble and granite cost about the same as solid surfaces, but the price must be weighed against performance. Marble and granite are far more valuable than synthetics in much the same way that diamonds are more valuable than rhinestones. The depth and character of natural stone cannot be matched by any man-made surface. Natural stone does not depreciate with time and adds value to your home.
My project is a remodel. Will ProGranite Surfaces remove my existing tops?
Not generally. ProGranite Surfaces prefers that existing countertops be removed by a licensed handyman. All tear out of existing tops will be completed prior to taking our measurements to ensure a more exact fit of tops.
What is your lead-time for installation?
Lead time from placing order to template is approximate 10-14 days, between template and installation approximately 2-4 weeks depending on schedule.
At what point can my project be templated?
For new cabinets, all measurements for countertops must be taken after all relevant cabinets are in place, leveled, and in their final locations. All appliances need to be on location, and the sink needs to be purchased and on hand. For remodel projects, it is best to have the previous tops removed before measurements for the new tops take place.