Frequently Asked Questions
Why is granite an excellent material for kitchen countertops?
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.
Can granite get stained and do I need to seal it?
Granite is a highly dense material and relatively porous so it can get stained if a spill is not cleaned quickly. Sealing the surface with a water-based sealant is therefore recommended to protect the granite from water patches and stains. Sealing can be done once a year or once every two years depending on the usage of the surface. Granite itself is approximately 95-98% stain resistant but when polishing, a silicone impregnator is used on all our natural stone products to ensure a non-porous stain resistant top. This will insure lasting life and beauty.
Where is granite found?
Granite is quarried from the earth with specialized equipment and machinery. It is found all over the world. A few parts of the world where granite is quarried: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, Finland, India, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Ukraine, USA, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
What are seams and do I need them?
Seams are joints where two pieces of stone meet or join together. Granite slabs are very big but larger kitchens may need a seam or two. If you have curves, arches, or really long spans of granite you will usually need seams. They are located in out of the way places. Here at Select Stone, we go out of our way to ensure that your seams, if any, are barely noticeable.
What is the thickness of a granite countertop?
Most granite countertops range from 2cm ( ¾” ) to 3cm (1 ¼ "). The preferred thickness for granite countertops is 3cm. Here at Select Stone all our granite is 3cm (1 ¼”) thickness.
Matching granite countertops with the rest of my decor?
The general rule of thumb is go for contrast; light cabinets = dark granite. Dark cabinets = lighter granite. If you're unsure of how well your granite countertop will match your cabinets, use granite color charts or samples. Look at the stone samples in different lighting and in different areas of your kitchen. Don’t try too hard to match your granite with your flooring, just remember, if your floor has a busy pattern, look for a solid colored granite so as to not compete with the floors. To see how others have matched their cabinets and countertops, check out our online photo gallery.
How do I clean my granite top?
Polished granite is a very durable stone; much harder than marble. Granite has been used in the past in the commercial industry in "high-traffic" areas. Granite will withstand almost any element it comes up against including heat and cold. A mild dish soap and water will work. But, a soap build up may occur over time if you don't rinse your countertops well. It's best to use products made specifically for stone.
Can I cut on my granite counter top?
Yes you can; although you may dull your knives!. Granite is very hard and the only thing that will cut into or scratch granite is diamond or another piece of granite. Kitchen knives and utensils are no match for the absolute hardness of a granite top. So don't worry about slicing on the counter top;
Can I set a hot pot on my granite counter top?
Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined beneath the earths crust; therefore, it can withstand heat up to 1200F. It cannot be affected by heat from a cook top or frying pan. You can set hot pots on your granite countertop without worrying about charring or scorching your countertop. A lit flame placed under the granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned or scarred marks. It is however, not recommended to place hot pots near seams or joints.
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