Do my cabinets require the installation of plywood subtops prior to the template process?
Not necessarily. In fact, if you’ve opted to use our 3CM (1 1/4") think granite, no plywood would be needed at all. The strength of the thicker granite alone will be enough to support itself on the cabinets. In the case of standard 2CM (3/4”) granite, a plywood subtop (5/8”) will be required prior to the stone being installed. This can be done by the client or by Stone Age.
What is granite?
Granite is an igneous rock with a crystalline formation and texture. It is mainly composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica. It starts off as liquid magma deep within the earth’s core where it is cooled and compressed over millions of years. It is then quarried, cut and polished. After that process it can be applied to numerous applications such as countertops, tub surrounds and fireplaces.
What’s the difference between marble and granite?
Although both are stones and both are quarried from the earth, granite and marble (and marble’s relatives – limestone, onyx and travertine) are very different from each other. Granite is formed deep in the earth’s mantle at extremely high temperatures, and is a very hard, resistant stone made of crystallized minerals. The marble family – limestone, travertine, marble, onyx – starts out as sediment – animal skeletons and shells, plant matter, silt – at the bottom of bodies of water. After millions of years this solidifies into stone. Because its main component is calcium, marble can be affected by acidic liquids such as vinegar and citrus beverages.
Why should I choose granite for my project?
When you are looking for an enduring countertop material that is both elegant and easy to maintain, granite is the logical choice. Granite is available in a variety of colors, textures and finishes which make it an excellent product for countless applications related to building, designing and civil engineering. Granite also possesses indisputable strength and long-term durability; moreover, it is an aesthetic and eye-catching material.
- Granite resists corrosion caused by polluted air and acid rain
- It also remarkably resists wear and tear on interior flooring applications
- Used outdoors, granite’s mineralogical structure is not influenced by freeze/thaw cycles.
- Granite also provides a natural acoustic barrier, which is another very practical and exclusive advantage of this stone
- Its thermal inertia is of great interest to architects and promoters who have to comply with energy saving programs
- Finally, granite is an all-natural material to which nothing has been added, or removed
How do I clean my granite tops?
POLISHED GRANITE is a very durable stone. It is also much harder than marble. Granite has been used in the past in the commercial industry. Some of the obvious applications have been panels on the outside of buildings, walls, and “high traffic”floors. Granite will withstand almost any element it comes up against including heat and cold. Granite itself is approximately 95-98% stain resistant. Polished granite should receive the same cleaning care as polished marble, using a mild phosphate-free, biodegradable liquid dish-soap, soap flakes or a powder which contains no aromatics. Rinse and dry with a chamois or cotton terry cloth towel.
Can I set hot pots on my granite countertop?
Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined beneath the earth’s crust. It is not affected by heat from a cook top or frying pan. A lit flame placed under the granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned or scarred marks.
I understand that, in dealing with STONE AGE, I won’t need to do something called “buying slabs”, but I will still be able to personally select those to be used on my project.
Yes. With respect to slab usage, the calculation of cost based on the exact square footage of your project in lieu of the value of entire slabs will, in most cases, equate to a bottom line cost saving for you.
Can I re-seal my own granite or must it be done professionally?
While there are companies that specialize in the care and maintenance of natural stone products, a sealer can easily be applied to granite (we recommend this to be done annually).
- Surface needs to be clean and dry.
- Apply the natural stone penetrating (impregnating) sealer much the same way that lemon oil would be applied to a quality furniture surface.
- Wipe off excess sealer that did not penetrate.
I’ve heard there are now two formats used in the fabrication of granite for countertop applications. Which one is best for me?
Originally, granite was primarily processed in a 3/4" (Nominal 2CM) thickness which then required a fabricator to laminate an additional 3/4" section on to any exposed edges to produce an artificial 1 1/2" thickness . While still used extensively here in the Western U.S., most of the country has adopted a different format where material processed in a 1 1/4" thickness (Nominal 3CM) allows those fabricators who are equipped to process and install such a product to offer a sleek and seamless edge detail as a viable alternative.
In addition to the visual appeal of the 3cm format, this product is structurally sound on its own and eliminates the need for a plywood mounting surface (subtop) and its related expenses.
