Expert Bathroom Remodeling Contractors in Phoenix, AZ

Granite is flamed by applying blowtorch-strength heat to the surface of the stone. This causes the surface to melt and some of the crystals to shatter, leaving a highly textured surface that is ideal for exterior paving or wet areas where optimum non-slipperiness is required.

Granite is one of the hardest stones in the world. It is highly resistant to scratching in ordinary use. A knife blade will not scratch granite. It can only be scratched by another piece of granite or with specially sharpened tools designed to work with granite like tungsten and diamond blades.

We do not recommend the use of marble as kitchen counters because marbles (and limestone and travertine) are calcium carbonate, and their polished surface is more vulnerable to household acids, including vinegar, mustard, ketchup, citrus, and a host of other food-related products. These acidic substances cause a chemical reaction, which will remove the polish. Additionally, marble and limestone can be scratched more easily than harder stones, such as granite. Marble is, however, sometimes used in the kitchen as a pastry slab because its perfectly smooth, cool surface is ideal for rolling out dough and pie crusts.

Some green stones, such as the jades from Taiwan, are not truly marble but a different material called serpentine. Serenities, or serpentines, as they are sometimes called, do not etch or react to acids the way limestone and marble do and are somewhat harder. Green tiles of this family must always be installed with an epoxy adhesive to prevent the curling that can take place if a water-based setting material is used.

Countertop Rock LLC in Tempe, AZ backs up its work with a lifetime warranty on the seams of our countertops. This warranty covers seam separation for one year from the date of installation. In the over 1,000 kitchens that have been installed over the years, this has never been an issue. The warranty will not cover fissures and pits in granite. Because it is a natural stone, granite may have fissures that look like cracks; these pose no actual structural problems. When selecting your granite, please look for these carefully in your slabs if you wish to avoid them. Granite is one of the hardest substances on earth because it is heat resistant to a hot frying pan and you can cut on it. That said, it is still a natural stone, so hitting it with a hammer or a meat clever is not recommended. Countertop Rock LLC will not warranty against breakage after installation.