FAQ (freqently asked questions)
Practical Questions and Considerations
How long will my granite countertops last?
Indefinitely. The beauty of natural stone is that it is formulated to withstand the test of time—and the strain of erosive elements such as water.
Will bleach or other harsh chemicals stain the surface of these materials?
We recommend products specifically designed for use in cleaning marble and granite, but plain, mild soap and warm water should be adequate. If bleach or another common household chemical is accidentally applied to your stone, simply rinse and clean away any residue with soap and water, acetone, #0000 steel wool, or denatured alcohol. We will also provide you with maintenance and care information when your stone is installed.
Marble is more susceptible to damage from abrasions, spills, citric acids, alcohols and oils, so extra precautions should be taken, such as having coasters set out for drinks.
It is unlikely the surfaces will be damaged if they have been topically treated with a sealant or impregnated with a special silicone formula. You may need reapplication of either, depending on the level of usage, but generally proper cleaning and routine maintenance are adequate measures for a year before sealing will need to be completed again.
What should I do if I get a scratch on my new granite countertops?
It would be hard to mar the surface of nature's superior geology or our technologically astute manmade materials, especially when treated with proper sealants. But in the event this happens, you can call our consultants and describe the problem to see what steps can be taken.
Note: Some culinary enthusiasts have an extra piece of granite or marble cut and smoothed, with rubber footings attached, for use as a cutting board. Cleanup is easy for these items, and bacteria have less room to grow, unlike plastic or wood's porous surfaces. Then your kitchen also benefits from a continuity of surface appearances, since your cutting board is camouflaged when not in use.
Which of your finishes is most popular?
This depends on the intended location and usage of the material. Residential customers generally select a polished finish. Polishing allows the natural character and color of the stone to emerge while also protecting it. Different considerations will determine your choice, such as the level of traffic on floors, for instance, or potential exposure to the elements.
Commercial flooring and exteriors generally require a heavier finish such as honing, which is smooth and satiny in appearance but without the glossiness that could result in slippage. Other options include hammered, tooled, axed or rough sawn finishes, all of which you can learn more about in the Surface Materials section of our website.
In what areas do you operate?
We operate all over the Piedmont Triad area. We are your stone experts in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, Gibsonville and Reidsville
Aesthetic Decisions
How do I choose a style of stone?
This is where a visit to our showroom is essential. You can bring swatches and samples of other décor materials you are using, and mix and match with the help of our consultants.
Generally the choice of a color and grain scheme in granite, marble, limestone or slate goes hand in hand with other features that exist in the setting, such as whether or not you are choosing a light or dark wood to match, what kinds of accent pieces you may desire, if you have your heart set on certain linens for a bathroom, or what kind of light the room receives.
How to choose between the different stones?
Granite is frequently chosen for kitchens, vanities, fireplaces surrounds, bar tops and floors because it is virtually indestructible—able to withstand considerably high-impact heat, water, wear, acid and liquid exposures. Marble is softer and less durable, but it also demonstrates a more dramatic effect, making it perfect for fireplace surrounds or bathroom vanity tops. Limestone provides a soft and calming look, but cannot withstand a high polish, so it is generally recommended for flooring or bath areas. Slate is characterized by a variety of vibrant colors in different patterns and textures, making it ideal for flooring and fireplace surrounds.
You can learn more about the technical differences between our stones in the Surface Materials portion of our website, or you can always feel free to call a Stone Resource representative for further guidance in making your selection.
Ordering process
How can I be sure about my measurements?
The Stone Resource representatives are happy to assist you with this important step. As part of our full service coverage, we will make a template of the surfaces. Our representative will visit the site of installation and create specifications for you. It is vital that your measurements are correct from the beginning, and we know which factors not to overlook in assessing a project—its dimensions and other variables. Furthermore, slab materials will oftentimes need joining, and we may be able to recommend ways to save time and money by laying the product out in alternate arrangements. We hold ourselves accountable for the end result, and we want to have your confidence from start to finish of the process—and through the years of enjoyment to come.
Is there any circumstance when the weight of granite, marble and synthetic alternatives are not recommended for installation? For the most part, soundly constructed rooms will support our granites and marbles without the need for adjustments. If a particularly long piece is requested, or if stacking or multiple cutouts are required for installation, then extra support may be necessary. For durability and longevity of the stone our stones are either 2cm (3/4 inches) thick with a weight of 12 lbs per square foot, or 3cms (1-1/4 inches) thick with a weight of 18-20 lbs per square foot.
What synthetic alternatives do you offer to marble and granite?
And why might I consider choosing this over the natural substances? We are certified fabrication dealers of quartz-based Dupont Zodiaq and CaesarStone synthetic products. You will find designs that aren't naturally occurring in these products, so while the durability factors are similar for both synthetics and natural stones, the synthetics appeal to those seeking more freedom and creativity in their design objectives.
When can I expect to have the product delivered after I've placed my order?
You should anticipate arrival within 2-3 weeks after your template has been completed. Certain specifications may affect the lead-time, such as the availability of the stone you've selected, or variance in the details of your customized order. We keep our materials well stocked and handle the customization process ourselves. This ensures that the lead-time is as short as possible, but also ensures your satisfaction. We want you to have the utmost confidence in our handling of such a fine and important product choice.
Where are your stones coming from, and are they eco-friendly?
Our stone is quarried from all over the world, some countries include Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, France, Italy, and the United States.
Our stones are indeed eco-friendly from a number of perspectives. First of all, as natural resources, manufacturing waste is not produced unnecessarily. Secondly, the durability of the product means replacement would most likely be an aesthetic consideration, not a practical one. Thirdly, by using stone from quarries around the world, The Stone Resource supports local communities—whether they are already thriving in the international market, or are making strides to do so.
