QUESTIONS ?

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F.A.Q

Q. Will my granite look like the pictures posted on your website ?

A. We do our best to use good quality photos that reflect as closely as possible the end product. However, lighting or equipment (cameras, monitors, etc...) may alter end result. The same goes for our samples. Since a sample only shows a very small part of an actual slab it is likely (depending on the granite) that you will have spots, streaks, or variations of some sort in the end product which were nonexistent in the sample. Granite is and remains a natural stone with unique characteristics.

Q. Will my countertops have seams ?

A.The average granite slab measures 113" long by 60" wide. When pricing any project we must consider the length and width of the counters along with the size of the slabs in stock. And, yes, adding a seam or two is sometimes unavoidable. In some cases we may have to add a seam to facilitate handling of the counters, i.e., elevators, narrow staircases, etc.... We make sure to indicate the location of each seam on the drawing that is attached to the estimate you will be sent.

Q. How heavy is granite ?

A. It is about 18 lbs per square foot for a thickness of 1 1/4" (30mm). Thickness variation ±3mm.

Q. Are my cabinets strong enough to support the weight of the countertops ?

A. You may need to reinforce the cabinets depending on the type of cabinets in place. This is especially true in renovation projects. If you have frame-type cabinets you will definitely need to reinforce them. On the other hand, if you have modular type cabinets it will not be necessary. In either case you must make sure that the cabinets are level.

Q. Is it wise to put marble countertops in a kitchen ?

A. Marble is a more porous and less compact stone than granite. As a result it will ultimately stain and scratch. For these reasons we do not recommend the use of marble in a kitchen.

Q. What is your lead time ?

A. About 10 to 12 open days following receipt of the final measurements.

Q. Who takes the measurments ?

A. Our technician will perform the templating with a numeric arm. This will ensure a perfect fit of the countertops alongside the walls. Remark : For renovation projects it is not necessary to remove the existing countertops to take the measurements.

Q. How do I get an estimate ?

You have three choices :

Contact our customer service department to locate your nearest retailer or salesperson.
Send a sketch or drawing to our estimating department by email or fax and make sure to indicate:

the measurement of the walls alonside your counters;
the colour
the edge type
the type of sink (top mount, undermount, single, double, etc...)
the type of range (standard, cook-top, etc...)
your name, location (city) and phone or cell-phone numbers.

Go to La Galerie, our Laval showroom, or to our showroom in Quebec City or directly to our plant in St-Sebastien, co. Frontenac;

Q. What is the average price per square foot ?

A. The prices of granite or quartz vary in range depending on the origin or the brand. You must also consider the type of edge you are looking for and the options and services you require. Each project is unique so it is best to submit a drawing in order to get accurate pricing.

Q. Is quartz less expensive than granite ?

A. No. It is often the opposite that occurs.

Q. Is quartz more resistant than granite ?

A. Both are very strong materials. The main difference concerns heat resistance. Because quartz is an agglomerate (mix of quartz particles and resin) it has a low resistance to extreme or direct heat. You should not place very hot containers such as pots, pans or other directly onto quartz countertops.

Q. Do granite countertops stain easily ?

A. We apply a sealant to all our countertops at the plant. A second treatment is applied once the countertops have been installed. With normal care and use it is unlikely you will ever stain your granite.

Q. What if I have a stain on the granite ?

A. Our installers have the knowledge and expertise to tackle most stains. A service fee will be charged.

Q. How thick are your countertops ?

A. We use 30mm (1 1/4") thick granite and quartz. Backsplashes are 20mm (3/4") unless otherwise specified.

Q. Does granite always have a smooth finish ?

A. Even with a polished finish, some granits may have pits. These pin like holes are natural particualirties along with fissures. These characteristics can be more or less prevalent depending on the granite and more or less visible depending on the lighting of the room.

Q. Does granite or quartz crack ?

A. Not generally. However, if the structural design of the cabinets is deficient then there is a risk for the countertops to develop cracks over time. It is important to make sure that the cabinets are structurally sound and level.

Q. How visible will the seams be ?

A. It is impossible to make totally invisible seams, however Granit Plus makes it a point to make them as thin as possible. The result is a very thin line of less than 1/16". Still too obvious ? Then have a look at our Spectra Seam it will surprise you !

Q. Is it possible to chip or scratch granite or quartz ?

A. Under normal care and use, both materials are scratch proof. However dropping heavy objects or pots and pans against the surface or particularly the edge of the countertops could chip the stone. Our installers have the knowledge and expertise to make the necessary repairs. Service fee applies.

Q. How often do I need to seal my countertops ?

A. It all depends on your use of the countertops. An easy way to know when to seal it ? Sprinkle some water onto the countertop. If the droplets bead on the surface you are good to go. However if the colour of the granite darkens then it is absorbing the water. You need to seal your countertops.

Q. Does quartz need to be sealed ?

A. It is not necessary as quartz is a composite and contains resin.

Q. Do you install the sinks ?

A. Undermount type sinks will be installed with proper hardware by our installers. No plumbing included in this service. Top mount sinks must be installed by the ower or his contractor.

Q. Do I need to be present during templating ?

A. Yes. The owner or a representative must be present when our technician performs the templating. Also make sure that faucets, sinks, basins, cook-top or range are on site.

Q. What are the sales conditions ?

A. We require a deposit on signature of the contract. The balance must be paid on delivery. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and cheques.

Q. Can I choose the slab for my countertops ?

A. It is possible to select your slab. You can either come to La Galerie our showroom in Laval or to our plant in St-Sebastien, co. Frontenac).

Q. How long will it take to install my countertops ?

A. Depending on the size and complexity of the project you can estimate between one and a half to three hours (1:00 to 3:00 hours)

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