Granite Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is granite?

A. Granite is igneous rock. “Igneous” stems from the Latin word igneous meaning “fire” (also the root word of ignite) and indicates that it was formed by liquid, fiery magma and melted just like volcanic lava. However, unlike lava, the molten rock never reached the surface. It solidified deep inside the earth, where it slowly cooled and crystallized. The granite that comes from the Canadian Shield is estimated to be approximately 3.8 billion years old. Splits and rifts caused by the earth’s plates shifting (due to seismic activity) forced the granite to the surface in the Precambrian age, more than 570 million years ago. Luckily for us, the Canadian Shield is known around the world for producing some of the most beautiful, durable granite in the world. Canadian Shield granite is mainly used for commercial applications.

2. How does the dishwasher attach to the granite tops?

A. The best way to attach a dishwasher for the dishwasher to have mounting brackets on the side that attach the base cabinets. For older models we can epoxy the top mount bracket to the bottom of the granite or silicone a small strip of wood under the counter. Once dry, the dishwasher can be screwed into the wood.

3. What type of sink can be used?

A. Undermount sinks are always recommended for granite countertops. You can pick any sink that can fit the cabinet opening. Granite undermount sinks require extra support.

4. Will you fix my sink in place?

A. Yes, we will ensure that your sink is safely fixed ready for your plumber.

5. How much overhang can you have without supports, and what type of supports is required?

A. For 2cm stone, we recommend supports with overhangs that are 10” or greater.

6. What is the appropriate thickness for the tops?

A. We recommend using 3cm thick stone to eliminate the seams.

7. How long can the pieces for my application be?

A. It is typically safe to have pieces that are approximately 9-10’ long, depending on the stone type and material chosen.

8. How long are the slabs, and can seams be avoided?

A. The average slab size is typically 100-120” long by 60-70” tall. The Rock With Us team will work with you to place few seams as possible in your kitchen counters. However, seams are required based on slab size and may be needed to maintain the structural integrity of the countertop.

9. What do seams look like?

A. Rock With Us will try to make the seam as inconspicuous as possible. You will see a fine hairline of 1/16-1/8” width and we will fill it with a matching colour epoxy.

10. Does granite have a completely smooth surface?

A. No. Many types of granite pits and fissures that are natural characteristics of granite. Some granites exhibit these characteristics more than others, and the lighting of the room can make these marks more or less visible.

11. Can granite be repaired?

A. While it is difficult to permanently repair granite, it is also very difficult to damage it. However, if some damage does occur, granite usually can be repaired by a mix of epoxy and ground up chips of granite.

12. Should granite be sealed?

A. The sealer used is a breathable sealer that does not change the colour of the stone. It penetrates the stone and will help prevent any staining. However, it will not stop the penetration of moisture entirely. When a liquid that might cause staining spills on the top, it should be cleaned up as soon as possible.

13. How do I know if I need to seal my granite?

A. One method you can use to check if your granite needs to be resealed is to sprinkle some water on your countertops. If the water soaks into the stone and does not bead up, then we would recommend resealing your granite.

14. How can I limit the staining of my granite?

A. To avoid staining, wipe up spills on granite as quickly as possible, avoid using acidic or oil-based products, and re-seal your granite every year.

15. Does granite chip or scratch?

A. Granite is a very dense material and under normal conditions it is chip and scratch resistant. However, pots, pans, and other heavy objects may chip the square edge around a sink area. Several other edge profiles are available that will look beautiful and reduce the chances of chipping.

16. Can I set hot pots on granite countertops?

A. Yes, granite is ideal for kitchens because under normal conditions it will not burn. Granite will not be harmed by hot pots, pans, or open flames.

17. Can I cut on granite?

A. Yes, granite is an extremely tough, durable material and in most cases can be used as a cutting surface without fear of scratching the stone (although knives may dull the surface by repeated cutting on the stone)

18. Why is it best to use granite for kitchen countertops?

A. Granite is the hardest and densest of all the natural stones. Since it is highly durable and scratch resistant, it is the first choice for kitchen countertops.

19. Why should I use natural granite stone in my home?

A. Natural stone is a natural timeless art. It lends strength to its surrounding by evoking a classing and unique feeling. It invited luxury into your home and yet is extremely affordable.

20. Do I need to be there for the template process?

A. Yes. This is the most important stage of the project. There are often details that we need to ask or you may want to add, and this is the time to change anything you wish to ensure you get everything you desire.

21. Can I add to my countertop or add shape to my countertop before you template my kitchen or vanity for granite?

A. Yes, we can add inches to counters. We can make any shape you want.

22. Can I choose my actual granite slab?

A. Yes. When you come to our Hamilton location, you can select your granite from our extensive showroom samples.

23. Is granite a cost effective choice?

A. Absolutely. When you think about granite’s incredible ability to last forever, it becomes a smart, sensible choice. Other materials will crumble in high-traffic areas, or deteriorate due to pollution, salt and other urban factors. Granite does not.

24. Will my granite look exactly like the granite sample on the site?

A. The sample seen on the Rock With Us site have been scanned as digital images for the website. While these are high quality resolutions, they will never capture the exact nature of the real thing. Although one of our strengths is the consistency of our product, you should expect some variation as it is a natural stone. These slight variations in colour, pattern, and granularity give granite its unique nature.


Still Have Questions?

Give us a call, or visit us in our Hamilton location and speak with one of our experts.