FAQ

GRANITE VS OTHER MATERIALS:

Granite is the most unique material with no two pieces being exactly the same. The most recent granite was formed over 750 million years ago; if granite can withstand the test of time it can withstand the most active kitchen users.

Granite’s pristine finish, along with its natural beauty cannot be replicated by any man made material. Granite will retain its beauty and value longer than any countertop surface on the market, making it the perfect choice for every homeowner.

What is granite?

Granite is an igneous rock formed under conditions of intense heat or produced by solidification of volcanic magma on or below the earth’s surface. It is primarily composed of minerals such as Feldspar, Mica, Quartz, Hornblende, and Biotite in addition to other minor minerals that contribute to its distinctive composition. As granite is formed worldwide, the quantity of minerals in each type varies, giving each piece of granite its uniqueness in color and appearance.

May I set hot pots on my on my granite counter tops?

Yes! Granite is formed through a combination of heat and pressure; a hot pot or frying pan will not affect your granite. Although, it should be noted that hot metals, 500 degrees Celsius or higher, will cause irreparable damage.

Will granite chip?

Granite edges have the potential to chip if hit hard on it’s edges, but is easily repaired with the use of stone epoxy and granite dust. If the chip is recoverable, preserve it and call Crown Granite & Marble Inc.; we will restore the damage as though it never even happen.

May I cut on granite?

Yes! Granite is more durable than even kitchen knives and will not suffer damage from cutting. You may wish to purchase a high-quality knife sharpener, as granite will dull your knife’s effectiveness.

Is granite scratch proof?

No. Granite is scratch resistant due to its extreme density. However, anything as hard or harder than granite will scratch the surface. Examples of materials that are rigid enough to scratch granite are: diamond, and fired ceramics with broken, rough edges.

Does granite stain?

In general no. All stones are to some extent, naturally porous; however the polish process for granite helps resist stains. Crown Granite provides a silicone impregnator sealer polish that will withstand the toughest stains. Crown Granite also recommends you not leave notorious staining substances such as red wine or oils on your granite for long periods of time.

Will there be seams in my countertops?

Possibly, seams are dependant upon the layout of the kitchen counter and the size of the slab that you select. Crown Granite & Marble Inc. works closely with their clients to position seams in the most structurally and aesthetically pleasing locale possible.

How does the dishwasher attach to the granite?

The best technique to attach a dishwasher to granite is by making use of the brackets on its side that attach to the base of the cabinets. For older models we will epoxy the dishwasher to the bottom of the granite.

Are granite countertops sanitary?

Yes! Granite is one of the finest bacteria resistant surfaces you can purchase. The minerals that compile granite will actually prevent bacterial growth; just another great reason why granite is superior countertop material.

Will my granite countertops emit radon?

Radon emissions are virtually unreadable in granite countertops. When considering health hazards, building materials such as concrete, gypsum, cement, and even the soil outside of your home pose a greater risk to your wellbeing than granite.

How does marble measure up against granite as countertop material?

Crown Granite & Marble Inc. does not recommend marble as kitchen countertop material due to its softness and susceptibility to staining. More practical marble applications are bathroom vanities and fireplaces.