Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about what type of natural stone will work best for your project, whether it’s for your kitchen, bathroom, office, or a unique space, like a patio bar or fireplace; Modlich Stoneworks is ready to help.  We invite you to see if your questions can be answered here, but if you’re looking for more specific information, need an estimate, or have a question that you’d like us to answer personally, don’t hesitate to contact us today!

What is the difference between marble and granite?

Generally speaking granite is igneous rock which is much harder and more durable than marble, travertine or limestone.

What is quartz?
Usually refers to man-made surfaces sold as Zodiaq, Silestone, Ceasarstone to name a few.  This surface is very dense and uniform in structure.  Manufactured  from quartz found in natural granites, mixed with glue-like resins.  We handle a full line of these products.  Very stain resistant, with consistent color ranges.
How much does granite cost?

For typical residential kitchen installations, starting at $ 50.00 per square foot to $ 80.00 per square foot.  Of course many variables can affect your final price.

How long does it take to get counter tops?

Most residential projects of typical scope are around 2 weeks from time of measurements taken on site.

Doesn’t granite stain easily?

One of the most misunderstood statements in the industry.  Most true granites are very stain resistant, scratch resistant, and heat resistant.  In short, the best surface for counter tops hands down.  Having said that, be sure to stay away from certain stones marketed as “granite”, but are actually softer stones of various mineral makeups.  Ask our experts about the correct stone for your application.

Can I use marble or limestone in my kitchen?

We don’t recommend this as you can have certain acids “etch” the surface, and staining will be problematic.

Should I seal my stone?

We seal all installations to guard against potential stains, especially cooking oil.  We use a 15 year sealer.

Additional Information

Getting Started

A CHECKLIST FOR YOUR MEASUREMENT APPOINTMENT

Your complete satisfaction is our goal and to insure an accurate installation, we will be contacting you for an appointment to obtain on site measurements.  We will need the following items for this appointment:

1. You or your project superintendent must be present at this meeting.
2. All base cabinetry and supports for overhangs permanently installed, level, flat, and in the same plane.
3. Drywall surfaces installed.
4. All sinks, faucets, water dispensers, soap dispensers, cooktops, downdrafts, or bath tubs must be at the site at the time of this appointment.
5. Farm style sinks must be installed prior to this appointment.
6. We will need clear access to all cabinet and counter areas, please have all materials, appliances etc. cleared off before this meeting.
7. We cannot schedule your installation without all of this information.  Your project lead time is figured from this appointment date, not your purchase date.   Please ask your project manager or call our office if you have questions about your lead time and installation schedule date.

We look forward to getting started on your project!

If You Provide Us With Measurements

 

On most projects we will have a technician come to your site to verify actual field measurements.  If for some reason you will be providing measurements for cutting the stone on your project, please keep the following in mind:

  1. The person providing measurements will take full responsibility for the accuracy of these dimensions.

  2. Any additional costs to re-make pieces because of inaccuracies provided to us will be paid for by the customer.  This could include trip charges if applicable.

  3. We will require a signature by the customer to verify dimensions by either fax or email.

Modlich Stoneworks’ technicians are trained professionals who will be happy to take measurements for your project as well.

Natural Stone Materials Information

Natural stone varies as it occurs in nature.  This variation is inherent in all natural stone, can be considerable, and should be expected.  This variation will include color shading differences within a single piece of stone, and of course contiguous pieces within the same project.  In addition, the finish and texture of stone will have variability as well.  We encourage you to visit our showrooms to see and touch the actual products as they were formed in nature.  Below are a few points to help you in making your selection.

  1. Most stones will have pits, fissures, veins, cracks and other unique properties. Our job is to fill, reinforce, and craft the stone for use on your project.  We pride ourselves in providing you with decades of experience in crafting your stone.  This is truly an art form, not a “mass produced” stamped out product.

  2. WYSIWYG  As a general rule, “What you see is what you get”.  We want to take the time to show you how beautiful natural stone will be on your project.  We stock the actual slabs, so we want you to see them, as you will experience them in your home or office.

  3. From old world artisan techniques, to the latest in computer aided CNC milling, you can be assured of the most competent workmanship.

  4. We direct import only the finest in 1st choice slabs from around the world.

  5. Natural stone is both durable and practical for many applications, it is not however indestructible.  Please ask our experts about selecting the proper stone for your application.

  6. We will be happy to provide you with small samples. These samples are representative of the variety named, but we cannot guarantee exact matching of these samples.

We look forward to getting started on your project!

Care for Natural Stone

Lets keep it simple.
Make sure you know the type of stone you have.  If you’re not sure, ask one of our experts.  If it is marble or limestone, avoid using harsh or acidic cleaners.  On all stone, wipe up butter or cooking oil spills when finished cooking.  Don’t store oils on the surface.  

We carry a full line of sealers and cleaners from Aqua Mix.  For technical assistance, you’ll find a lot of great information and products at Aquamix.com, and you should always feel free to Contact Us!

Additional Information on Quartz

With superior stain resistance and uniformity of color, quartz is another choice of surfacing material.  If you are looking for the consistency of man-made quartz, we can provide a wide variety of choices.

Zodiaq, Silestone, Ceasarstone

Usually known as man made quartz surfaces, the above materials are marketed by a variety of sources for counter top applications.  All warranties for performance of these materials are handled by the manufacturer, not Modlich Stoneworks.  Modlich Stoneworks will guarantee only the quality of the fabrication of these products.

Additional Information on Marble, Limestone, Travertine, Onyx

These stones are metamorphic rocks composed mostly of calcite.  Used extensively for sculpture, and building materials for thousands of years.  While prized for their beauty, the calcites will react to certain acids forming “etch” marks.  These stones will take on this “natural patina” over time and should be expected.  Modlich Stoneworks cannot be responsible for this.  Any costs for service or replacement of pieces due to etching is the responsibility of the purchaser.

Checklist for Installation

Modlich Stoneworks will call you approximately 1 week prior to your installation date, to confirm your appointment. Please be prepared by reviewing this checklist.
1.If you have existing counter tops, make sure arrangements have been made for removal of your existing tops, sinks, cooktops, ranges, backsplash, etc.
2.Proper access is required to move the stone in place. This could require improved driveway access, snow or ice removal, improved and proper stair treads, and clear access inside the property.
3.Dishwashers must be permanently installed. Return trips to fasten dishwashers will incur an additional charge of $175.00.
4.Wall surfaces adjacent to the granite should not be finished until after the installation. Caulking at the wall and backsplash is not included in our fee.
5.Have all sinks, faucets, cooktops, downdrafts, ranges on site.
6.Except for farm sinks or self rimming style sinks , Modlich Stoneworks will install all under-counter style sinks. This does not include connection of your plumbing, unless previously arranged in your contract.
7.All supports for areas with overhangs must be installed before our installation crews arrive.

We’re excited to get started on your project!

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    Buy a kitchen countertop and receive $100 off of a bathroom countertop.