HELPFUL TIPS TO MAKE YOUR STONE QUOTES & PURCHASES GO SMOOTHLY       Certain decisions and details to be determined prior to pricing and/or on-site measuring,including: Stone type, thickness & color, natural or engineered quartz Edge detail (laminated & style) Backsplash details (height & locations) Sink style (top mount or undermount and number of bowls) Number and location of faucet and fixture holes Bar cap widths and/or overhangs (supports required for overhangs more than 9”) Granite comes in 5 price groups. We use only the best grades available. Some suppliers label groups 1-5, some label A-F, and some do not group at all (see our group list).  Typically groups 1 & 2 have consistent-type colors and patterns.  The higher groups have more veining and natural color variations.  We always recommend you hand select your actual slabs from our suppliers.  We can provide a supplier list and maps. Granite is available in 2cm (3/4”) and 3cm (1-1/8”) thickness.  Typically we use 2cm with a laminated front edge which makes the finish look of 4cm (1-1/2”).  2cm allows for a subdeck to be installed, providing the best support for your material.  3cm (1-1/4”) material is becoming more available.  If you have lots of edges, i.e. large islands and raised bar caps, often 3cm will be overall less expensive.  However, cabinets “must” be level.  If not, gaps may show and need to be trimmed with wood by your cabinet company.   Cambria and CaesarStone are pure natural quartz.  The cost is priced comparable to a group #2 granite product, does not require sealing and is non-porous.  Natural veining is not presently available, and is not seamless.  Seams are visible and product pattern and shade can change. Soapstone comes only in 3cm thickness and is priced comparable to a group #2 granite. Soapstone is generally green/gray with some quartz veins.  Mineral oil is suggested to bring out the best color.   Stone samples are representative of that product  and show only the type of material found within  that particular range of stone.  Variation is expected.  We cannot guarantee exact matches. Any changes made or return trips required may not only change the price, but also cause a delay in fabrication and installation, often by several weeks. Natural stone countertops are composed of natural materials and are subject to variations in background color, veining distribution and veining pattern.  Fissures, pitting and natural mineral concentrations are naturally occurring features in granite and are not considered defects. Seams will be visible and small chips may occur during fabrication and repaired with epoxy. These natural characteristics will not change over time and in no way will affect the performance or integrity of the stone. If you view these characteristics as defects, you may want to consider another countertop material.     With new construction and remodel projects, there will be surprises and adjustments. Natural material may not go just right.  Please be patient and know everyone is doing their best and we will do whatever reasonably possible to work things out.

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