FAQs
What do I need to do prior to measure / template?
Purchase stove / cook-top, sink(s), and faucet(s). It is important to make sure the fixtures that are being purchased will fit the cabinet box in which they will be placed. It is a good idea to have inside cabinet dimensions handy when shopping for these items. If you purchase an undermount sink, please make sure that the sink remains in its box along with the corresponding manufacturer’s template. If new cabinets are being installed, they must be set in place (screwed to the wall) and completely level. If applicable, appliance garages should be removed prior to template. Please have your countertops cleared off to ensure good, accurate measurements.
Who will hook up my appliances?
DSC is not licensed to do any plumbing or electrical work. DSC does not disconnect gas appliances, reverse osmosis systems or hard-wired cook-tops. All appliances will be fitted at the end of install to ensure proper cut-outs. In the case of undermount sinks, the sink will be mounted and holes will be drilled for faucets and fixtures present at the time of install. The DSC does not reconnect any plumbing, gas, or electric appliances.
How long does the installation take?
A typical kitchen with a tear out will take one day. Factors which may increase installation time include full height backsplash, tile tear out and/or intricate details. Some fine tuning will be done on job site. Top-mount sink and drop-in cook-top cutouts are done with pieces set in place to avoid breakage in transport. This procedure will create a minimal amount of dust. It is very important that the purchaser or a representative be present at time of installation so that decisions can be made on faucet placement and the job can be reviewed at time of completion.
What do joints / seams look like? Will I need joints/seams in my project?
The location of countertop and/or backsplash joints is dependent on various factors including slab size, material type, access into job site, and job lay-out. During the layout process in the shop, consideration is given to grain direction and pattern flow. Seams are very discreet, but are noticeable by touch and sight, yet are a natural characteristic of granite countertops.
Do I need support brackets for my raised bar or overhang?
We strongly recommend using support brackets for any granite overhang that exceeds 10″. The length of the brackets should be roughly 3″ less than the total overhang width and should be placed approximately every 3 or 4 feet. The DSC will provide and install inconspicuous steel supports for an additional cost if so desired.
What is granite?
Granite is an igneous rock that forms by the slow cooling of magma deep in the Earth’s crust and is composed of quartz and feldspar. Granite is available in a variety of colors, shades and patterns. Because of its stain and heat resistance, granite is an ideal material for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Are pitting and / or fissures in granite normal?
Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has minuscule pits. These are voids between the various mineral crystals. Granite will often have natural fissures as well. These are not cracks and are an inherent quality of granite. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the structural integrity of the material.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz has the natural look and feel of granite, marble and other quarried stones with the added feature of superior performance. Quartz is strong, durable and maintenance-free. Due to its nonporous nature, Quartz will not absorb food or liquids.
Are Quartz Countertops Durable?
Quartz, or engineered stone, is highly resistant to the routine wear and tear of daily life. Because quartz is made from a tough combination of natural crystals and resin, this product is very durable and long lasting.
Does Quartz Require Any Special Care or Maintenance?
No. Quartz does not require sealing, polishing or reconditioning ever. Simply wipe with warm water and use mild soap if desired. Due to its nonporous nature, it does not require regular sealing and is stain resistant.
Is Quartz Resistant To Surface Damage?
Quartz is durable and more resistant to surface damage than other types of stone. However, all stone can be damaged by force and no stone is chip-proof. Objects hitting edges, particularly at sinks or dishwashers, may cause chips. No stone surface is scratch-proof. Surface markings are more visible on monotone designs than multi-colored surfaces.
Can I Put A Hot Pan Or Pot On My Quartz Countertops?
Quartz surfaces can be damaged by sudden or rapid change of temperature. Quartz may not withstand the direct transfer of heat from pots and pans and other cooking units such as electric frying pans, griddles, some crock-pots or roaster ovens. The use of a hot pad or trivet is always recommended.
Are Quartz Countertops Resistant To Staining?
Quartz, a nonporous and nonabsorbent surface, resists staining, eliminating the need for sealing. The nonporous surface limits bacterial growth, greatly reducing the risk of food-borne illness.
How heavy is granite and will my cabinets support it?
Granite and marble are roughly 12 pounds per square foot. Well-constructed and properly set cabinets will support granite countertops.
How do I clean granite countertops?
For day-to-day cleaning, use mild dish soap diluted in warm water is recommended. Dry with a clean dishtowel.
Do I need to seal my granite countertops?
All granite countertops are sealed directly after installation. Under normal use, countertops can be resealed every year.
Can I Use Marble Countertops In My Kitchen?
Marble is not recommended for kitchen countertops. Marble scratches easily and acidic substances such as vinegars, ketchups, citrus beverages, etc. can affect it. Also, the high-gloss of the marble countertop may be partially lost as many chemicals can etch its surface.
Where Can I Use Marble?
Marble is typically used for bathroom vanity tops, Jacuzzi tops and fireplaces.
What Causes Marble To Etch?
Marble is prone to marking because of its calcium carbonate makeup, which reacts with any acid. Acid literally eats away a tiny bit of the surface, creating dull spots, also known as etches.
Is Marble Hard to Clean?
No. Marble can be cleaned with warm water and non-abrasive dish soap. Do not use anything with acid or lemon juice on it.
