RockTops Granite FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Rocktops has put together a list of topics to help answer your questions:

	Are veins weak spots in the stone? Not always. Some veins are just color variations. But unavoidably, some are natural flaws. As far as structural durability goes, the stone is processed to meet strength requirements for countertop use.
	Do we have to have seams? Not necessarily, granite slabs run on average 110" x 66". Larger slabs are available however, the bigger the slab the smaller the selection of colors. Keep these sizes in mind when designing your cabinets and check on slab sizes to accommodate any large island or exceptionally long areas of countertops.
	Is marble or granite more expensive? Origin, availability, and yield of the given quarry are the determining factors in price. With both marble and granite, these things vary. Therefore, there is no set rule on which is more expensive.
	How far can granite extend beyond the cabinet without extra support? According to the Marble Institute of America, structured support is needed when overhangs exceed 10" for 3cm material and 6" for 2cm material.
	How much does granite weigh? Approximately 18 lbs per square foot.
	Will bacteria grow on granite? Bacteria is a living organism, just like anything else living it needs food to live. Bacteria do not eat granite. Unkempt and unclean countertops can harbor bacteria no matter what the material is.
	Does a professional have to come in and seal my countertops? No, sealing is a simple process that a homeowner can easily perform on his or her own. Sealer is a liquid that is smoothed over the surface with a clean, dry cloth, and then buffed off like you would wax a car. Rocktops offers a starter stone care kit!
	I'm building a new home, when do I select my granite? 3-4 weeks prior to installation of your cabinets.