Here are answers to a number of common questions about granite and marble. If we don’t have your question listed here, feel free to call us at (254) 857-3590.
The price of marble and granite depends upon the individual project under consideration, the difficulty involved in fabricating a custom solution and the market price of the stone itself. Prices can vary a great deal, based on a number of factors. That’s one reason why we recommend that you contact Texas American about your project. We’ll be able to tell you what to expect in terms of pricing.
We can provide a bid-ready estimate based on your description of your project and/or any available drawn plans or blueprints. We offer free onsite measurements and bids.
You’ll want to consider the quality of the stone itself, the care with which it was treated and the installation talents of the company from which you’ll be buying.
Granite is naturally resistant to staining, burning, scratching and chipping. That makes it a perfect choice for kitchens and food preparation areas. With proper sealing and cleaning, a granite countertop can be ideal for the kitchen! Marble tends to scratch and stain, unfortunately. That’s why it’s not a good choice for the kitchen and is better suited for decorative furnishings, fireplace and Jacuzzi surrounds and vanities.
Granite won’t chip or scratch easily due to its impressive density. Marble, on the other hand, can suffer from chips and scratches much more easily.
Both marble and granite are porous stones. That opens the door to staining. However, the porous nature of the stones also makes it easier to fight stains. You can remove most stains from properly sealed marble and granite with a suitable cleaner or by applying a poultice to the affected area to "draw out" the stain.
A proper sealer will dramatically reduce the risk of staining. You should always wipe up stains as quickly as possible, and always avoid using highly acidic cleaners or products with an oil base.
You can clean marble or granite with cleaners specifically designed with that purpose in mind. You should avoid the use of strong chemical cleaners, vinegar, bleach and products containing abrasives.
It’s hard to damage granite and it’s usually possible to repair damage that does occur.
We recommend Ph-neutral cleaners designed specifically for marble and granite countertops. You can clean your stone with a mild detergent, but the products made specifically for marble and granite are smart purchases.
Granite and marble are both slightly porous. Sealers protect the stone, reducing wear due to normal use and create a smoother surface.
We will seal your stone prior to its installation. You can usually wait approximately three years before re-sealing lighter colored stone surfaces. Darker stones usually require resealing after approximately five years.
In some cases, granite and marble countertops will have seams. That’s because the available pieces of stone may not be adequate to handle a project with a single piece. If seams are unavoidable, Texas American will take care to create seams that won’t unduly reduce the attractiveness of your countertop.
Cultured marble is a cast polymer created by combining fiberglass resin and crushed limestone. Various filler elements and pigments allow for custom coloring.
Cultured marble does offer some attractive advantages. The gelcoat used to treat cultured marble provides strength and increases resistance to chipping while creating an attractive, shiny appearance. Cultured marble is often molded specifically for individual projects, allowing for a seamless installation. In some cases, however, one may be better served by traditional marble or granite.
Texas American will be happy to discuss your project to make the best possible recommendation. Contact us today to discuss your project and how we can help!