Can granite or marble be used in food preparation areas?
Granite is an excellent product for use in kitchens and other food preparation areas. Under normal conditions it is stain, chip, scratch, and burn resistant. Like any other countertop material, if cleaned regularly and sealed properly granite poses no health or sanitation problems. Marble is not recommended for use in the kitchen because of its tendency to stain and scratch. However, because of its unparalleled beauty and classic look, marble is an excellent choice for vanities, decorative table tops and fireplace surrounds.
Can you cut on granite or marble?
Granite is an extremely tough, durable material and in most cases can be used as a cutting surface . However we recommend the use of a cutting board, it can dull knives. Using marble as a cutting surface will result in scratches as if cutting on a piece of wood.
Can you set hot pans on granite or marble?
Granite is ideal for kitchens because under normal conditions it will not
burn and it will not be harmed by hot pans or open flames. Marble should not be used in kitchens as excessive heat can cause damage and potentially leave scars or burn marks. Neither material is flammable.
Does granite or marble chip or scratch?
Granite is a very dense material and under normal conditions it is chip and scratch resistant. Marble can be chipped and scratched under normal use and therefore, should be used in low traffic areas and should always be treated like a piece of fine wood.
Will granite or marble stain?
Marble and granite are porous materials and therefore, are subject to staining if not maintained properly. In granite, the same porosity that allows for staining also allows for easy stain removal. In most cases, stains can be prevented by quickly wiping the spill. If a spill is left overnight, especially if the liquid is grease, oil, coffee, or wine the granite will usually darken. To remove the stain, a poultice should be applied, which may pull out the stain from the granite. Marble can be stained and etched by acidic or oil-based products.
How can you limit the staining of granite or marble?
Goldstone seals granite and marble to help reduce the chance of staining. To further prevent staining you should wipe up spills on marble and granite as quickly as possible,
and avoid using acidic or oil-based products on marble. We recommend sealing your granite on a yearly basis.
Should granite be sealed?
Yes, because it is an effective method of protecting your granite. It will prevent water and oil-based liquids from staining the stone.
Can granite be repaired?
Granite is very difficult to damage. However, if some damage does occur, granite usually can be repaired.
What is the difference between 2 cm and 3 cm? And what is the most appropriate thickness for the tops?
The 2 cm thick stone is approximately 3/4" thick, ranging from 5/8" to 7/8" in thickness. The 3 cm is approximately 1 3/16", and can range from 1 1/16" to 1 5/16" thick. We recommend using the 3 cm granite for kitchen countertops for both aesthetic reasons and structural reasons.
What kind of edges are available for granite countertops?
Goldstone offers the Flat, Beveled (Chamfered), Full Bullnose, Demi Eased , Eased ( Waterfall)and Ogee edges. If you are interested in other edge profiles, please discuss your options with a Goldstone sales associate. To view these edges, please view the edge page link.
Are your countertops backed by a warranty?
Yes, all standard granite countertops are supported by a 1 year warranty.
What is Invisa-Seam?
Goldstone uses the most advanced seam technology available to ensure the tightest and least visible seam. The invisa-Seam is the most advanced available tool used for seams. Goldstone is the only Central Texas company using the Invisa-Seam.
Why do I have to have seams in my countertop and what do they look like?
Slab size may not be large enough for the entire run of the countertop. Goldstone will ensure that seams are kept to a minimum and are discreetly placed, while still maintaining the structural integrity of the stone. Seams will be visible and you will be able to feel them but they will not be offensive.
What affects pricing of granite and marble?
There are several variables that affect the pricing of granite and marble. The material is priced by the square foot and these costs are dependent on the product's standard availability and the origin of material.
How do granite and marble compare to other solid surface countertops?
Granite is one of the most durable, maintenance-free countertop materials available. Granite is a natural material made of very hard igneous rock that is second only in hardness and compacted strength to diamonds. As a result of its geological composition, granite is stain, scratch, and burn resistant. Easy to care for and much desired for its natural beauty, granite is an investment that amortizes over time, retaining its original appearance long after initial installation. In most cases, granite countertops fall within the
same price range as other high-end surfacing materials.
What should you be paying for when buying granite?
Not all granites are the same and consumers must be careful when they are comparing the same granites with different vendors. Quality stone includes clear crystals, a smooth surface with even polish, and a good polish without swirl marks from the polisher. The quality of the installation is just as important as the quality of the material. An excellent installation consists of a job that fits well as a result of accurate templating and good installation, highly polished, straight edges, and a timely installation, with no hassles and a quick response to all situations.
Can a customer choose the granite slab that will be used for their countertops?
Goldstone recommends that customers visit either our slab yard or one of our distributors
to hand select their material.
Call today for a FREE Estimate!
(254) 857-ROCK (7625)
