FAQs

California Granite & Flooring

  • What is the difference between quartz, granite, and marble?

    Granite, marble, and quartz are popular countertop materials. Granite, a natural stone, is durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Marble, also natural, offers unique patterns but is more susceptible to staining and scratching due to its porous nature. Quartz, a manufactured stone consisting of 92% quartz and 8% resin, provides diverse color options and designs. It's the least porous, making it highly resistant to stains and scratches, and requires minimal maintenance. Our team can assist you in selecting the most suitable countertop material for your property.
  • How do I clean and care for my granite countertops?

    For daily cleaning, use a mild soap and warm water solution, then rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. If you prefer a commercial cleaner, we recommend 409 stone cleaner. Be careful not to use excessive soap or cleaner, as it may leave residue. Avoid acidic cleaners, such as bathroom or tub cleaners. To protect against stains, apply a sealer annually for granite and twice a year for marble. While we seal our stones during installation, we suggest sealing heavily used countertops twice a year regardless of stone type. Please contact us for this service or for more information about stone care.
  • Where does granite come from?

    At California Granite & Flooring, we primarily source our granite from Brazil, with additional imports from Italy, Spain, China, and India. Granite is formed from volcanic magma beneath the earth's surface, taking millions of years to cool and solidify. During this process, the magma combines with various minerals, creating the intricate patterns and designs visible in the stone. Over time, as surrounding softer materials erode, the hard granite is exposed, forming what we refer to as a granite quarry.
  • Does granite stain?

    Granite is generally resistant to staining. However, all stone has some degree of porosity. At California Granite & Flooring, we recommend keeping your stone properly sealed to prevent staining. It's important to note that some granite colors are more prone to staining than others. Spills involving acidic liquids or the use of harsh cleaners can increase the likelihood of spots or stains. Additionally, allowing any liquid to remain on the countertop for an extended period may result in dark stains or spots.
  • Do you install backsplashes?

    Yes, we provide backsplash installation services. Typically, we install backsplashes three to four days after the countertop installation. Our design experts at California Granite & Flooring are available to assist you in achieving your desired aesthetic.
  • Will my countertops have a seam/joint?

    While we understand that seamless countertops are preferable, seams may be necessary depending on the layout of your countertops. Our highly skilled installation team will ensure that any seams are as inconspicuous as possible by carefully color-matching them to your granite.
  • How long will it take?

    After material selection, we require a lead time of three to seven business days for templating, fabrication, polishing, and installation. An average-sized kitchen installation, including removal of old countertops and installation of new ones, is typically completed in one day. For a more accurate estimate based on your specific project, please consult with California Granite & Flooring.
  • What is the difference between 3-cm and 2-cm granite?

    3-cm granite has a thickness of 1.25 inches and is the standard for kitchen countertops. 2-cm granite is .75-inch thick and is commonly used for vanities, table tops, and bars. Please be aware that the actual thickness may vary slightly depending on the quarry source.
  • Can I reuse my existing sink?

    While it is technically possible to reuse your existing sink, we strongly advise against it. The countertop installation process provides an ideal opportunity to update your plumbing fixtures. Furthermore, once the new countertops are in place, replacing the sink at a later date becomes extremely challenging. We encourage you to explore our selection of popular sinks at California Granite & Flooring.
  • What is the difference between prefabricated and full slab granite?

    Prefabricated granite refers to pre-cut and finished pieces, typically used for standard-sized countertops. Full slab granite involves cutting and finishing an entire granite slab to fit your specific space. While full slab granite offers more customization options, it often comes at a higher cost compared to prefabricated options. We invite you to discuss both options with us at California Granite & Flooring to determine the best choice for your project.