Common Customer Questions:

Is it true that granite countertops can harbor bacteria?

Absolutely not! In fact, there has not been a single case of bacteria growth on granite reported in the US by the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta. Nor do you need a disinfectant cleaner made especially for granite so that a bacterium does not grow in your counter tops. Granite is rated #2 in sanitation, right behind stainless steel.Why choose granite?Granite is the most popular natural stone and countertop material due to it's versatility and superior performance characteristics.

Granite was recently rated the top performing kitchen countertop material by a leading consumer magazine when compared with engineered stone, butcher block, ceramic tile, stainless steel and other manufactured surfaces.Why is granite an excellent material for kitchen worktops?Next to diamond, sapphire, and ruby, granite is the hardest natural product on earth. Once polished, natural granite will maintain its high gloss virtually forever. Normal use of kitchen knives, cutlery, and cookware leaves no scratches. Heat has almost no effect on natural granite, making it much safer than synthetic surfaces with polyesters and resins. Pots and pans heated to 900 degrees Fahrenheit will not dull natural granite's lustrous finish, but the use of trivets is recommended to keep your granite counter clean.

Synthetic countertops are cost comparative to granite, but how do they compare in the long run? As the saying goes, imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Countertops made from acrylic and other manufactured materials may have the "look" of granite, but the similarities end there. For resistance to bacteria, heat, scratches, stains and overall performance, granite is unsurpassed.

What about cost?

Initially, marble and granite cost about the same as other solid surfaces, but price must be weighed against performance. Marble and granite are far more valuable than synthetics in much the same way that diamonds are more valuable than rhinestones. The depth and character of natural stone cannot be matched by any man-made surface. Natural stone does not depreciate with time and adds value to your home.

FAQ about THE INSTALL PROCESS

How long will the process take?
Once you sign your sales agreement and we receive a 75% deposit, you will have new countertops in 3-4 weeks. This can be delayed by a number of items including cabinets not set in place, sinks and cooktops not available, or if the stone does not get approved.

What kind of sink works best?

In general, undermount sinks are the most popular sinks for the natural stone counters because it gives a very clean look. Farm sinks are also popular, but they must be installed before we can template your project. There are a few customers who prefer top mount sinks and you can get a larger sink since it sits on top of the stone. We will use the template provided by the sink manufacturer to cut the stone based on the customer's final selection. One word of caution, the sink must fit inside your cabinet. Most cabinets can only hold an under mount sink up to 22 inches deep. You cannot install a 24-inch undermount sink in a 25-inch cabinet.

What is templating all about?

First, templating is the process of making a pattern of the tops of your counter. They will be used when we cut your stone slabs into your new countertops. The time of template will depend on when your cabinets are installed and ready. If you have existing cabinets in place, then you are ready to go. If the cabinets are not yet installed, then we must wait until they are set in place before we can template your kitchen or bathroom area. Also, if you have chosen a farm sink then it too will need to be installed before this time.**You will need to be at the site during the template process. It is a good idea to remove all personal, and family cherished items from the countertop area to a safe area.**Templates are extremely important to the final quality of the project. It may take an hour or longer to complete your templates and to answer any questions that you may have. Templates will give you visual perception of the final product. Your designer and template specialist can offer design suggestions to accentuate certain areas.

Will I be able to see my stone before it is fabricated?

Absolutely! Tile Collection requires that you approve of your natural stone selection before we cut. Our fabrication shop will call you to schedule a day and time that works best for you. We aim to have the slab available and approved for your project two weeks before installation.We will look for the quality and integrity of the slab and we would like you to approve the color of the stone. If you have a large project, it may take 3-4 slabs. We will insure they are from matching lots, but there may be some variation in color, markings, and shading. This is inherent in all natural stone.The viewing will take place at the granite shop. Some customers have their pictures taken in front of the large slabs before they are cut. We will be happy to assist!

NOTE: BY STATE LAW *CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE FABRICATION AREA*