Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few things to consider before choosing natural stone.
Can I use marble in my kitchen?
You can choose marble for your kitchen counters, but in all honesty, it isn’t the best option. To avoid stains, scratches, and scuffs, you’ll have to thoroughly understand and rigorously apply the maintenance tips. Talk to our advisors.
I’m building a house. When should I choose the stone I want to install?
The color and grooves of stone can vary from one shipment to the next, so it’s a good idea to wait until the room is three or four weeks from being finalized before choosing the stone. At that point, you’ll be able to choose from what’s currently available.
Will my granite or quartz work surface have visible joints?
Not necessarily. Stone blocks usually measure between 7 and 10 feet, so your work surface may require no more than one joint. Many people don’t mind visible joints, but if you have any questions on this subject, talk to one or our advisors before your work surface is cut. You can also discuss the location and appearance of the joints at the same time. Remember that the joints are so tight, they’re practically invisibles. But be sure the check beforehand anyway, to make sure you’re fully satisfied with the final product.
Should I choose an undermount or an overmount sink for my granite countertop?
This is a simple matter of personal preference. When properly installed, both types of sink are safe and hygienic. Undermount sinks are a popular option because in addition to looking good, they make it easy to clean the countertop and allow water to drain directly into the sink. This type of installation is slightly more expensive, however, because the sink surrounds have to be finished.
Is granite more expensive than quartz?
It all depends on the granite you choose. Availability, color, and country of origin will all affect the price. Stone that is difficult to procure and in high demand will definitely cost more. The price of granite will also vary according to its country of origin. However, a wide range of granite colors are available at prices that are comparable to, and sometimes for less than quartz.
Is granite too heavy for my bathroom cabinet? Should I add support?
A 3-centimeter thick slab of granite weighs about 19 pounds (8.6 kg) per square foot. Standard cabinets should be able to bear that weight easily. However, if your cabinets can’t support the weight, our Summum Granit professionals can provide solid advice.
Will the block of stone I receive be like the sample?
Because the pattern and grooves of natural stone can vary, it’s hard to rely on a single representative sample. Also, stone varies from one shipment to the next. If you have a sample from a previous shipment, the actual stone you receive may look different. Talk to our Summum Granit specialists to see what’s available before making your final decision.
Can different colors of stone be combined in the same piece?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even quite common to combine different types of stone in the same room. Just be sure to check the maintenance requirements and durability of each type of stone.
Should I approve the shipment of granite before it is cut?
Yes. It’s always better if you approve the shipment before our specialists start cutting. This will avoid unpleasant surprises once it’s installed. Talk to the staff at Summum Granit. They can walk you through the process.
Can granite be used outdoors?
Yes. Many types of granite will change colors when exposed to sunlight, but it’s a durable stone that performs brilliantly outdoors. Granite is often used to build BBQ counters and outdoor staircases for homes and businesses.
Can hot platters be placed directly onto granite surfaces?
Absolutely. Heat does not affect granite.
How many inches of overhang can there be on a granite countertop without additional support? According to the Marble Institute of America, a 3-centimeter thick countertop can have up to a 10 inch (25 cm) overhang, and a 2-centimer thick countertop can have up to a 6 inch (15 cm) overhang without requiring additional support.
What factors affect the price of my work surface?
A number of factors influence the price of natural stone work surfaces: cost of the material, number of slabs required, design, and finish. Once you’ve chosen the material, see a Summum Granit advisor to talk about your project and figure out the details.
How can I minimize the number of visible joints on my granite surface?
Blocks of granite measure around 110″ x 66″ (275 x 165 cm). However, in certain colors, blocks can measure 120″ (300 cm). Keep these dimensions in mind when planning your kitchen.
Is marble as expensive as granite?
The origin, availability, and size of a stone will affect its price. With both granite and marble, prices can vary widely.
How much does natural stone weigh?
A 3-centimeter thick slab of granite weighs about 19 pounds (8.6 kg) per square foot. For a kitchen requiring around 80 sq. ft., that’s equal to about 1,450 pounds (659 kg). Some cabinets may require additional support. You can trust our Summum Granit expert installers.
Can I install my work surface myself?
Cutting, polishing, and, installing natural stone requires the right tools and equipment and specific skills. Leave it to the experts.
About natural stone
Can bacteria survive on a granite surface?
Bacteria, like all living organisms, need to eat. Bacteria will live on whatever dirt is on your granite surface. You can avoid bacteria by following the granite maintenance tips.
Is granite a natural or synthetic material?
Granite is a natural material taken directly from the earth. Thanks to its hardness and mineral content, it can be polished beautifully.
What does the term “honed granite” mean?
“Honed granite” has a soft, matte finish rather than a polished glossy finish. This type of finish has a less vibrant color than polished granite. If you prefer, however, it can be brightened up using the right sealant.
Are the grooves the most fragile part of the stone?
Not necessarily. Grooves are often just variations in color. However, some stones do have fissures, and they need to be properly protected by specialists.
Why do some stones have grids on the back?
Grids are put on some stone blocks for better stability during shipping and handling. This precaution protects a lot of exotic materials from being damaged.
What is the difference between quartz and natural stone?
Quartz sold by Summum Granit are made from a mix of quartz and resin. Natural stone is taken directly from the earth.
How can I give my granite an antique look?
Instead of the normal polishing process, abrasive brushes can be used to create a more textured, satiny finish and an antique look.
Can I cut directly on my countertop or should I use a cutting board?
You can cut directly on a granite surface. However, using a knife on a granite surface will damage the blade over time.
Is the surface of my countertop porous?
Most granite blocks are porous, but the microscopic pores are invisible to the naked eye.
Can granite crack or chip?
Yes. Granite can crack or chip if is shocked. Our experts can fix most minor breaks of this type.
How durable is natural stone?
If you take care of it, natural stone will last dozens of years. Some natural stone is as old as the earth.
Natural Stone Maintenance
Is granite with a matte finish more likely to stain?
The process of polishing to a matte finish makes the stone more porous. However, the granite should be no more likely to stain if the right sealant is used.
How often should I reseal my granite surface?
Traditionally, granite surfaces used to be resealed once a year. Today, thanks to the quality of the procedures and techniques we use, sealant only has to be applied every 3 to 5 years. Read the instructions of the sealant container carefully and follow our experts’ suggestions.
Is applying sealant to a natural stone surface a job for a professional?
No. Applying a sealant to natural stone is simple. Read the instructions on the label carefully and follow the instructions.
Can my work surface be refurbished if it gets scratched?
Yes. Granite can be refurbished using sandblasting and polishing techniques. The process will vary depending on the damage to the surface. It isn’t a good idea to do it yourself, though. Talk to a Summum Granit expert.
What product should I used to clean my countertop?
It’s better to use products specifically designed for natural stone. Talk to our Summum Granit specialists. They can recommend the best product for your type of surface.
Isn’t polished stone already sealed?
While polishing does close all pores, it’s still preferable to apply sealant to polished stone.
How do I know when to reseal my granite surface?
Industry specialists often recommend resealing surfaces every year. However, certain types of granite that are very hard may never need to be resealed. If you notice that your stone countertop absorbs water or that areas around the sink have darkened, it’s probably time to reseal.
What is a color enhancer?
A color enhancer is a product used to enrich the natural color of stone. Applying an enhancer replicates the beautiful look of wet stone. The product must be applied periodically, but be sure to test it on a small area beforehand.
Does a color enhancer act as a sealant?
Most color enhancers have the same properties as sealants.
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