10310 Moncreiffe Rd. Suite 107
Raleigh NC 27617
Tel. 919-782-4237
CityRock Countertops

Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Radon in Granite, we have included a short video report from Earth Magazine.
Here below is a list of FAQ. If you do not find the answer to your question, 
please click here to send us an E-mail and we will reply to you asap. 

Can you use marble in a kitchen?
The short answer is yes, you can use marble in a kitchen. However, because marble is more
susceptible to scratching and etching, the use of Marble in a kitchen requires careful consideration.

Is polished marble too slippery to be used on a bathroom floor?

Any polished surface is slippery when wet. As with any other hard surface used in a bathroom, caution should be used when exiting the shower and tub areas, as well as any other area that is wet.

Will my countertops have seams?

Not necessarily. A typical slab size is somewhere between 7 and 10 feet.Therefore, your countertops may not require a seam. Many people do not have a problem with seams, but if you are concerned about them you should discuss this with your fabricator prior to fabrication. How and where it is seamed should also be discussed with the fabricator. Often the seams are so tight they are difficult to notice, however communication with the fabricator is essential in order to avoid confusion or disappointment regarding seams.

Which type of sink is best for granite ? Under mount or drop-in?

This is a matter of personal preference. If installed properly, both types of sinks are sanitary and safe. The ability to wipe off the counters directly in to the sink and the aesthetic appeal make under mounted sinks the most popular. Typically an under mount sink installation would be an additional expense ( though minimal ) due to the finishing process of the edges around the sink.

Is granite more expensive than man made materials?

It depends on the Granite. Availability, color, and country of origin are major factors that affect the price of Granite. If the supply of a particular stone is short and the demand is high, the price will reflect that. Given that stone is a natural product imported from all over the world, the price spectrum is wide. However, many Granite colors are offered at the same price or sometimes less than man made products.

Will granite weigh too much for my cabinetry ? Do I need additional cabinet supports?

3cm (1 1/4" ) Granite weighs approx. 19 lbs per square foot. Typical cabinet construction is more than adequate for most installations. However, large, self-standing or furniture style islands may require additional corner bracing. It is advisable to let your cabinet installer know that you are using Granite to ensure proper support.

Will my sample match my actual slab?

Because of the movement and veining in natural stone it is difficult to accurately represent stone with a small sample. Also, stone varies from shipment to shipment, so if you have a sample from a previous shipment, it may not match the current supply. It is advisable to view the actual slabs at a Distributor showroom or at the shop prior to fabrication. For a list of recommended Distributors, visit our Link Page.

Is it okay to mix different colors of stone?

Absolutely. It is not uncommon to mix colors or types of stone within a room. When mixing stones, it is a good idea to consider which material would be the most practical for the space. For example, when mixing Granite with Marble, the Granite would be best suited for the area around the range because it is the most durable. The Marble could be used on the island or as a dining table.

Should I approve my slabs before they are fabricated?

It is always a good idea to approve the slabs prior to fabrication. This will help to prevent surprises or disappointments once the material is installed.

Can granite be used outside?

Yes. There are a handful of Granites that can change color when exposed to UV rays, but it is very durable and can be used outside. Granite is often used for outdoor kitchens, as pavers for driveways and walkways, as stair treads, and as exterior cladding on commercial buildings.

What stone can I use around my pool?

Recommended stones for pools are light in color to protect bare feet from hot temperatures and textured to prevent slipping on the wet surface. The denser the stone and the darker the color, the hotter the surface will become in the sun. Limestone is a perfect surface for pools due to its light color and natural texture. Travertines that are unfilled and saw cut or textured would also be recommended.

Can I put a hot pot directly onto granite?

Yes. Placing a hot pot on granite will not affect it. But you must consider other issues as well...

Grit that gets trapped between the pot and the countertop surface may scratch the surface--even granite countertops. Granite is very hard and can take tons of abuse without any significant damage, but it can develop light surface scratches or pitting in high-use areas around the sink and cook top. It is not common, but it is possible. And ALL other surfaces are softer that granite. Better safe than sorry.


How far can granite/quartz extend beyond the cabinetry without additional support?

According to the Marble Institute of America, corbels or structured support should be used when an overhang exceeds 10" for 3cm material or 6" for 2cm material. The brackets would be for safety purposes and it would apply for Granite, Marble or Quartz products.

What is involved in pricing a countertop?

There are many factors involved in pricing countertops: material cost, quanity of slabs, design and edge profile are primary considerations. Once you have chosen a particular stone, the fabricator will need either an accurate drawing or a field visit in order to clarify all the details. The fabricator will then provide you with a finished installed price.

Is marble more expensive than granite?

Origin, availability, and yield of a given quarry are all factors that determine the price of natural stones. With both marble and granite there is a broad spectrum of pricing.

What are remnants?

Remnants are the smaller remaining pieces of stone from a previous job. They can be used in any stone application, size allowing.

Can I install my own countertops?

The cutting, polishing and installation of natural stone not only require specific tools and machinery, it also requires extensive product knowledge. Fabricating and or installing natural stone countertops really are not "do it yourself" projects.

Do I have to buy the entire slab?
No, you only pay for the material used in your project.

How do I care for my natural stone surfaces?
Please refer to our Natural Stone Care & Maintenance Page.
 
Will my countertops come sealed?
Yes, CityRock will seal your countertops upon completion. 
Please refer to our Natural Stone Care & Maintenance Page to learn about the Products CityRock uses.
 
How are seams made?
Seams are done when two pieces meet. The seams are joined with epoxy and color matched to blend with the stones colors. Most seams are not visible and are usually less than an 1/8th of an inch.
 
Does granite have pits and fissures?
Yes, since granite is a natural substance, pits and fissures are a natural part of the stones natural structure. These fissures are not cracks and will not compromise the stones strength.