Technical Questions
What do I need to consider when deciding between product types?
There are a variety of factors to consider when deciding between quartz, granite, quartzite, or other solid surface materials. In terms of a straight answer, there isn't one. Instead, it comes down to the aesthetic goals, the specific application, the countertop location, and budgetary restrictions. Natural stone products have a captivating element that customers have longed after for years. Whereas solid surface materials can oftentimes provide more flexibility and options in terms of unique molding and forming opportunities. It all comes down to what your goals are. One of our experts at Adriano will happily talk through the diverse options with our clients to find the best solution for you.
What's the difference between granite and quartz countertops?
Granite and quartz countertops are both very durable products. The primary difference between granite and quartz is that granite is a natural stone derived from a slab. Whereas quartz countertops contain a large amount of natural stone, however, the countertops are a man-made, engineered, poured material.
Additionally, granite and quartz can have different edging and corner techniques. However, at the end of the day, due to being a natural stone, granite needs to be sealed. Whereas quartz is another natural stone but you don’t cut quartz sheets out. Quartz is typically poured and polished but does not need to be sealed.
Both granite and quartz provide truly one-of-a-kind countertops, each containing unique color variations.
How often do you typically have to seal granite countertops?
If you google this exact question, you're going to get a variety of different answers. If we're being honest, some people never have their countertops resealed. However, that doesn't mean it's the right thing to do. Lighter-color granite counters typically need to be resealed more often due to being more porous than darker variations. If you are noticing divots, that's a tell-tale sign that you should reseal your countertops. Resealing your countertops increases the longevity of the counters. Adriano recommends calling us to reseal granite countertops bi-yearly.
Yes, granite can chip but you're going to have to try pretty hard to do so. As a solid stone, granite can take quite a bit of wear and tear. However, if a chip does occur, we can fill it with a mixture of granite dust and epoxy.
Can I set a hot pan on granite countertops?
Under typical conditions, granite will absorb the heat from hot pans, trays, or pots without harm. However, trivets and other forms of heat protectants are recommended to maintain appearance and longevity.
Do natural stone countertops increase the resale value of my home?
Yes. In addition to its timeless appearance, natural stone countertops including granite and quartzite are known for their longevity and durability.
Can you cantilever countertops?
In short, yes, you can cantilever countertops. The amount of which a countertop can cantilever depends on the material and its thickness. For example, thicker granite can naturally cantilever farther than thinner without supports, but there is a limit. If the look you're going for includes an overhang amount that requires support, there are a variety of brackets and supports our installation experts can utilize. The same is true in terms of quartz and marble.
We create seams by joining two pieces of stone together to create a larger piece. For countertops, the edges of color-matched pieces are cut smooth, matched with the corresponding adhesive, and joined tightly until the adhesive cures. Then, any excess bonding material is thoroughly removed and the seams are polished. In terms of seam visibility, it depends on the product type, color, texture, and veining. Adriano Granite & Quartz strives to get our seams as close as possible and believe we are some of the best in the industry at matching seams.
