Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why choose granite slab countertops?
A. Granite is nature's ideal material for countertops. It is one of the hardest naturally occurring materials in the earth's crust, and when polished, results in a beautiful and durable surface resistant to the abrasion, staining, and heat of a typical kitchen.
Q. What is engineered stone?
A. Engineered stone is a man-made combination of durable, naturally occurring quartz and synthetic binders formulated specifically for the application and demands of kitchen countertops. Some people are attracted to the uniformity that these materials possess, combined with the heat and abrasion resistance of quartz. If you perceive natural variations as flaws, then enigneered stone may be for you.
Q. Do I need to know seam locations before installation?
A. Most countertops require seams at various points due to the limits of slab size, site access and fit. We will advise you of the most advantageous seam placements.
Q. What makes granite the hardest building stone?
Natural granite stone is formed by solidification of liquid magma under the pressure of earth's crust. Granite stone is composed of Feldspar, Quartz, Mica, and other minerals, making it one of the hardest stones in the world. granite has been used for building and decorative purposes for centuries. Granite stone resists wear-and-tear applications remarkably well, making it ideal for interior or exterior flooring. When granite used for outdoors, structure is not influenced by freeze-thaw cycles.
Q. What do the finished surfaces of granite like to be?
Granite stone can have four main finishes: polished (shiny), honed (matte), flamed or brushed (textured). The polished and honed surfaces are flat and smooth. The flamed and brushed surfaces are flat and textured. The polished surface of the granite is shiniest, while the brushed surface reflects the least amount of light.
Q. What applications are recommended for granite finishes?
A. Granite finishes are suitable for different applications. For example:
* Polished surface: Polished surrface is common for low traffic indoor flooring, wall cladding, counter tops, vanity tops & decorative items
* Honed surface: Honed surface is good for high traffic indoor/outdoor commercial flooring, wash rooms, side walks.
* Flamed or Brushed surface: Flamed and brushed surfaceexternal is suitable for flooring, decks, pavements, side walks, curb stones, garden benches
Q: What about everyday cleaning?
A: A mild soap can be used to regularly clean your countertop.
Stay away from abrasive cleaners and anything acidic especially
when cleaning marble.
Q: What is your turnaround time?
A: From the date of template to the date of installation it is typically
7 to 10 business days.
Q: Do you fabricate the granite?
A: Yes. MDI Stone Inc. completes each step of the
process from template to fabrication to installation with our
crews at our facility.
Q: Do you have any slabs in stock?
A: Yes! MDI Stone Inc. always has
slabs of natural stone in stock and ready for viewing.
Q: What if you don't have what I like?
A: MDI Stone Inc. has several distributors in the
surrounding areas. If we do not have what you are looking for, we can
get it!
Q: What about sinks?
A: MDI Stone Inc. also carries a full line of stainless
steel kitchen sinks at competitive prices.
Q: How do I get a quote?
A: Simply bring in the measurements of your project and a member
of our team can give you a free quote, call us or send us an email.