We try to anticipate questions you might have regarding natural
stone countertops, and provide the answers here. If you want
additional information send an email to
info@mchenrygranite.com.
What is Granite?
Granite—The Earth’s Oldest Building
Material
Granite is—quite literally—as old as the earth. It is formed from
liquid magma, the molten rock still found at the core of the planet,
cooled slowly to form a substance approaching the hardness and
durability of diamond. Granite is an igneous rock, the name
reflecting its fiery beginnings. The chemical composition of granite
is similar to that of lava. However, granite owes its hardness and
density to the fact that it has been solidified deep within the
earth, under extreme pressure. Over the eons, seismic activity has
changed the crust of the planet, forcing veins of granite to the
surface. Glaciers scraped off layers of dirt, sand and rock to
expose granite formations. Typically revealed by outcrops, the
deposits have been discovered on all the continents.
Composition
"Granites are formed of an aggregate of crystals which are molded
together without any interspace between them or which enclose one
another. The magnificent crystallinity of granite is a striking
characteristic." Geology of Granite, E. Raguin, London, 1965 p.3
It is accurate to speak of "granites," because many varieties of the
stone exist. While they differ in color, texture and crystalline
structure, the granites have three essential minerals in common:
• Feldspar (50% or greater)
• Quartz (25-40%)
• Mica (3-10%)
These minerals occur in different proportions, giving each granite
its own color, texture and structural characteristics. In addition,
hornblende, magnetite, hematite, pyrite, zircon, garnet, corundum
and other minerals may be present in smaller amounts, adding to the
unique coloration and texture of each granite deposit. In supplying
granite for all large building or complex of buildings, it is
essential that the stone be consistent in color and texture. To
assure this, each granite color must be quarried from the same
deposit. With natural material like granite, a certain amount of
"movement" or grain in the stone must be expected. Many people find
this flow and blending of colors to be the most compelling reason
for using granite.
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What do I need to consider when buying marble or granite?
Because it is a natural stone, and more
recently granite-has been blessed with a remarkable natural beauty
that has captivated humans throughout the ages. Inherent in such
natural products is a certain lack of predictability that
sophisticated architects and designers celebrate. Consumers who are
less acquainted with the material expect the Granite ordered to be
identical to the picture or sample they were shown. Although sample
stones are intended to be representative of the quarry's product,
the material quarried at one time may differ slightly in color and
veining from the sample. Moreover, even a single granite
slab will possess a certain amount of color variation from one end
to the other. Interior designers and architects have come to view
this tendency of natural stone as an advantage. Slight
irregularities can be pleasing by introducing an element of the
natural into human-designed spaces, whether residential or
commercial.
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Do
I need a professional drawing to get a quotation?
No, a hand drawn sketch will do, as long as it gives
the countertop dimensions and shows the location of the sink(s) and
cooktop(s). Just fax it to 815-578-1616 or mail it and we will
return a quote in 24 hours or less in most cases.
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Steps for Measuring
Step 1 Appliances
Determine the exact area of the new counter top location. Determine
if existing appliances will remain. If new appliances will be
purchased, will this change the existing layout?
Step 2: Sinks and Faucets
Determine if a new kitchen sink(s) or faucet(s) will be added. If
you are looking for a simple new sink solution, you can specify one
of our stock sinks. This can save both time and money.
Step 3: Existing Cabinetry
If the cabinetry is remaining and not being relocated, sketch the
shape of your existing layout.
Using a tape measure, start to measure the length and width of your
existing countertops. This should begin at one end of a
cabinet/appliance/wall and continue the entire length of the run. In
a layout that is located in the corner of two adjoining walls, (see
example), measure the length of the run to the actual inside wall
corner. When completed, measure the depths of all areas starting at
the back wall running to the front edge of the existing countertop.
Curved or Rounded Sections
We are able to produce curved corners and sections with a radius.
Sketch these as accurately as possible. Our field Engineer
will generate a final drawing for your approval prior fabrication
and installation.
Your Preliminary Estimate
Once we have your measurements and specifications, we'll submit a
preliminary estimate for the proposed work.
Should you wish to modify any of the items, we will promptly issue a
revised estimate. Once all details are finalized, we are ready
proceed with...
Field Measurement and Final Quotation
We will schedule a convenient time for an on-sight measurement by
one of our staff. We then submit a formal drawing or plan for your
project along with our final quotation for your approval.
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Will you visit us to
make a template.
Yes. we will measure and/or template once cabinets
are in place, level and secured to the walls. We need to see your
sink(s), faucet and cooktop during this visit, so please have them
available.
How long
does it take to install after templating?
It takes 7-days or less in most cases. The duration
of the installation is usually about 4 hours.
Do I need to be
there when you template?
Yes. It is required that you are there when we
template and install, to answer any questions.
If I am replacing existing counters do they have to be removed
before templating?
It is preferable that they be removed to allow proper
determination of the sizes of the cabinets below. Otherwise we will
replicate the sizing of the existing counters plus any specific
changes you may want.
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Best method for cleaning
Stone
Note: The first step in stone
maintenance is the sealing of the stone. Generally, all granite
should be sealed for easier cleaning and maintenance.
Immediately wipe up spills and messes. Use pH balanced cleaners for
daily cleaning. Mild dishwashing liquid works quite well on granite
surfaces.
Most stones, once protected, only require occasional cleaning to
remove surface build-up of dirt and grime. Sealed granite will be
very easy to clean and you may want to just try warm water at first
to give you the results you need; towel dry to remove streaks.
Do not use Windex or 409 because these products will slowly wear
away your pentitrated sealer. These product will not
harm granite, but again, you don't want your sealer to wear away
either!
Do not use pledge or other wax products because these will leave a
buildup and eventual dull your shine. If you have
already done this, we suggest using dishwashing soap to cut away the
built-up wax. Once you are satisfied that the wax
is gone and the granite is looking polished again, just simply
applied a stone sealer product according to the manufacturer's
recommendation.
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Is granite safe to
use in a kitchen?
In a word, yes. There has been some misinformation
circulated by competing industries attempting to raise concerns
about issues such as bacteria and radon. We would be pleased to
share the research that shows that these concerns are not only
unfounded but granite actually ranks second to stainless steel in a
study measuring the bacteria resistance capacity of six common
countertop materials. More on granite safety.
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Can I cut on my granite
countertop?
Only if you want to ruin your good knives. Granite is
harder than your knife blades and will dull them very quickly, if
you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut and chop on
a wooden or plastic cutting board
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Can my granite top be
damaged?
Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm
granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if
subjected to sharp hard objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains
such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration.
Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite
under normal circumstances.
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How do I choose a stone
fabricator?
The process of purchasing custom stone
is more detailed than, for example, buying carpeting. As with any
purchase, you need to determine what criteria are most important to
you. Are you searching for the absolute lowest price or looking more
for overall superior value? Is timely completion important? How
heavily do you weigh the quality of materials and workmanship of
both the fabrication and installation? Do you value responsive
service, integrity and the caliber of people that you deal with and
will have working in your home?
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Why should I choose
McHenry Granite?
Thanks for asking! While are pricing is competitive,
our best customers are looking for something more. They value how we
handle all of the details that go into producing a superior quality
product and our responsive service. They don't want to be pressured
to make a purchase. They want to work with professionals in every
step of the process especially with those who perform work in their
home. They want their project completed on-time with minimum
disruption to their home and their lives. The McHenry Granite Team
has a proven track record for assuring these results. Our customer
comments say it better than we ever could.
Read more.
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What if I
can't find the color I'm looking for?
For unique and hard to find stone colors and patterns, we will
assist you by working with our affiliated local distributors that
give us access to thousands of slab choices.
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Other Information and
Helpful Hints
Sinks
There are five main types of sink. Undermount (sits
underneath the countertop), Drop In (drops through the counter with
edges supported on the top of the counter).
The most common pitfall is buying a sink larger than
the net size of the cabinet. The sink should fit within the width of
the cabinet with several inches allowed for internal supports .
Cabinet Installation
It is critical that the cabinets be set level no
matter what countertop you have. If they are not, the countertops
will show gaps that are not attractive. Stress to the cabinet
installers that they make sure the cabinets are level to within 1/8"
in 4'-0".
Wavy Walls
Most walls are not perfectly flat. Granite, on the
other hand, is cut almost perfectly straight. We recommend a minimum
standard 4" backsplash to transition between the counter and the
wall.
Countertop Jointing
Typical slabs range from 7 feet to 10 feet long, and
4 feet to 6 feet high, allowing long runs and L-shaped pieces.
L-shapes however cost slightly more due to the extra manpower
required to carry the obtuse load and the waste creted from the
inside of the L. The maximum size we can provide varies depending on
the weight and size of the stone with relation to the ease of entry
to your home.
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Method Of Payment
Accepts cash or certified checks only. If payment is done by
personal check we will not start the fabrication process until the
check is cleared. Once the order is placed the grand total is broken
up into two payments, one during the template, and the other due at
the end of the installation.
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