LIFESTONE, LLC

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I choose a natural stone contractor?

A: The best thing to do in your search for a qualified stone contractor is to ask questions:

• Ask your friends and family, as well as other professional contractors, for referrals and recommendations.

• Ask contractors for free estimates, and make sure to ask the representative questions when they arrive. It also helps to discuss your project in detail, and give the representative a good idea of your expectations.

• Ask contractors for references and be sure to check them. Ask if there is a portfolio of past products available so that you can view the workmanship of the contractor.

• Ask contractors about their products and procedures. Make sure that none of their work is contracted out to avoid the hassle of multiple sub-contractors.

 

Communication is very important to ensure you are choosing a competent company. Choose a contractor you feel comfortable working with; one that you believe is skilled and trustworthy.

 

Q: What is the best product for my kitchen countertops?

A: Without a doubt, natural stone is the best product available for any kitchen. Laminate and other solid surface countertops have become outdated, and natural stone has a classic beauty that will always last. Of the natural stones, marble is the softest and is more widely used in bathrooms and other areas with limited amounts of traffic and heavy-duty use. Quartz is a good choice if you are looking for a more uniform look on your countertop. Quartz has built-in antimicrobial protection. It is also heat, scratch and stain resistant. Granite is completely natural and is the most durable and longest lasting product available. It can resist heat up to thousands of degrees, and diamonds (which is what granite polishing pads are comprised of) are the only stone harder than granite, making it virtually impossible to scratch. Granite is easy to clean and will not stain under normal use. In addition, no two pieces of granite are exactly the same, so it is easy to achieve a custom and unique look. Other natural stones, such as travertine, limestone and slate can also be used for countertops, but require much more maintenance as they typically come with a rough, unpolished finish, similar to a honed or flamed finish.

 

Q: Is it difficult to care for natural stone countertops?

A: Taking care of natural stone is actually very easy and requires just about as much maintenance as any other countertop you might find. Usually, all you need is warm water, soap or mild dishwashing liquid and a soft, clean cloth to clean and maintain your countertops. With any counter, whether it be laminate or marble, it is best to wipe up spills immediately, and protect countertop surfaces with coasters, placemats, or trivets. It is important to note, with natural stone countertops you do want to avoid using abrasive cleaners, such as ammonia or bleach.

 

Q: Are natural stone countertops prone to staining?

A: Because all natural stone is porous, it may tend to soak up stains. Don't worry though, this is actually to your advantage. You can reverse stains on natural stone by applying a chemical poultice paste. This is easy to make at home by mixing baking soda and club soda. This paste will absorb the spill. After the paste is thoroughly dry, it is wiped off and the stain should be completely removed.

 

Q: How do I get started with my project?

A: One of the best ways to start your project is to contact us for a free in-home consultation. During this consultation we will discuss your ideas, the look you are hoping to achieve, and prvide advice on the right type of  natural stone for you. We will take precise measurements to help you to get an idea on the cost per square footage.  Once these steps are complete, we will discuss color, stone, and pricing options. Rest assured, we will walk you through every step of the process and make your home remodeling dreams a reality.

 

Have more questions?

Contact us today and we will be happy to answer them for you!