Estimates
We can provide an estimate, based on the blueprint layout; dimensions you provide or we can come out and measure your project. Pricing can be provided for various color groups, edge thicknesses and edge profiles. Having pricing for multiple material groups helps make informed material decisions.
Things to Consider
Personal Preference – With hundreds of different colors and patterns withina variety of materials available, selections are open to you and how you wish to co-ordinate your backsplashes, flooring, cabinetry and other select decisions
Movement- Within certain stones there are veins that flow horizontally, vertically (sometimes both) and some that have swirl patterns
Consistency - Although sample stones are intended to be representative of the product, the material may differ in color and veiningMoreover, even a single slab will possess a certain amount of color variation from one end to the other
Availability - Natural materials vary in availability. Not all colors and thicknesses are available at all times.
Size – Material needs depends not only on total square footage alone but also seam placement and flow direction.
Thickness - 2cm or 3cm - Most stone material slabs come in either 2cm (3/4”) or 3cm (1-1/4”) thickness, for a 4cm (1-1/2”) edge we laminate strips of 2cm slab to the countertop edging. So what is the best choice for you?
Slab Shopping
To find the best material for your needs, we need to know the scope of the project to determine the proper type and quantities of material. Then for color and design requirements what materials are you wanting to match or coordinate with.
Once those basic details are determined than the preliminary search begins to locate the best suppliers with inventories that may fulfill the order. Material reviews then begin to finalize color, flow, patterns and consistency for your personal preferences.
Material Selection
Due to the varying colors of natural stone we advise our clients to make time to personally approve of the slabs that we will be using for the project. Slabs will be available for review at either our distributors or our warehouse. Some colors are very consistent and this step may not be needed. We are always in favor of the client being able to confirm colors and edges directly, prior to fabrication.
Templating
Prior to fabrication we need to review the job site and make accurate patterns of the areas receiving countertops.
New Cabinets - The cabinets must be set and fastened into their permanent location at the time of the template. The cabinets must bestraight and level with one another, especially when using 2cm or 3cm granite.
Existing Cabinets – Please be sure to have the surfaces to be templated and surrounding areas cleared of all items.
Sinks - When selecting sinks and faucets, be sure to select sinks that fit in the cabinet opening available and will not interfere with drawers or filtration systems. Any needed cabinet modifications should be made prior to the installation. The sink should be at the jobsite for the template appointment. Our technicians will then verify the sink will fit in the cabinet opening and then bring the sink back to our shop.
Cooktops - If you chose the "drop-in" style stove-top that has a pop-up down draft, it is important that the appliances are at the jobsiteat time of templating. These unit fits very closely to the backsplash, so measurements must be accurate.
Fabrication
During the fabrication process our experienced cutting specialists are required to make decisions about where to place any necessary joints. Our technicians are instructed to keep the joints to a minimum, while maximizing the use of the stone of each slab. We also align the veining at the joints to achieve the most aesthetically pleasing placement. After the stone has been cut to the appropriate size, it is then fabricated. Fabrication includes shaping and polishing the edge detail of the stone and prepping any cutouts necessary.
Installation
Approximately 10 business days after templating, the tops will be fabricated and ready for installation. We will contact you to arrange a date and time for the installation. An installation may normally take one day, but there are some jobs that take longer to finish.
The installation area should be free of construction materials and appliances. This allows our crew to come in and immediately go to work. The jobsite should have water and electricity available to the installers.
When your granite or marble counter has been installed and cleaned, our technicians will apply a penetrating sealer to the surface of the countertops. Installation is now complete. Before our crew leaves the jobsite we will be sure the work area is clean. We want to be certain you or your client is satisfied. Please make a final inspection of your job.