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General Questions about Natural Stone
Where does natural stone come from?
Natural stone material comes from over twenty countries. Most of the industry's granite comes from Brazil, India, Africa, or Chinese quarries. More specifically, Marble is frequently imported from Italy, Spain, and Mexico; Slate is imported from Brazil, India, and China while travertine and limestone come from Spain, Portugal, Mexico, and Peru. Various types of stone, in a multitude of colors and textures, are found around the world.
Will my Stone look like the samples?
Since stone is a natural and unique product, it will vary in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are one of the sources of its exceptional beauty. At European Stone we will be happy to have you select the actual stone slab we will be fabricating.
Why is one material more expensive than another?
There are numerous factors that contribute to the cost of each type of natural stone. Some pricier materials contain semi-precious stones which have a higher market value in other industries. Additionally, the use of quality materials and excellent processing results in a surcharge over commercial grade materials. Lastly, a material may be more costly because it requires more skill and careful attention during processing and fabrication. At ESC we only purchase first quality material that is why our prices are the best in value.
Slab Questions
Can I choose my own Slab?
Yes! We are happy to have you approve the slabs that will be used in your project.
WIll Seams Show in a natural stone countertop?
Seams will be visible depending on the granularity, color, and pattern of the stone. Since ESC is accredited by the Marble Institute of America we have the ability to make seams that are smaller than 1/8th of an inch making them nonobtrusive. Because stone is a natural material and is mined from quarries in blocks that are usually no more than 10 feet long, seams are part of almost every kitchen.
Do you have remnant pieces of slabs for small projects?
Yes and many times if you purchase a kitchen from ESC, we are able to price the remnants at a large discount. Our remnant pile has all levels of stone to help complement any project you are working on.
Does ESC Fabricate its own stone?
Yes, at European Stone Concepts, we specialize in acquiring, installing and fabricating all natural and man-made stone products.
How Thick are the slabs?
Natural and man-made stones are available in both 2 centimeters (3/4”) and 3 centimeters (1 -1/4”) in thickness.
WHat is the difference between 2 and 3 centimeters in Slab material?
While there is no difference in durability between 2 and 3 centimeter material, one may be more appropriate than the other for your project. ESC employees have the expertise to guide you for the best stone to use in your project.
How are sinks installed in stone countertops?
A cut-out can be made in the stone to accommodate the type of sink you choose. ESC stocks several kinds of undermount sinks, including single bowl, 50/50 bowl, 60/40 bowl, bar sinks, and “D” bowl, as well as maintaining access to all of the major sink manufacturers. We also have the ability to fabricate custom sinks out of that same material as a countertop.
How Big are Slabs of stone?
The size of the slabs will depend on the specific stone being considered. Typically, granite slabs are 108” x 60”, although you may find some that are larger or smaller in size depending on the material.
How Much does a slab weigh?
Typically, the density of each stone and the slab size will affect the weight. For example, 3 centimeter granite and marble weigh about 20 pound per square foot whereas 2 centimeter granite or marble will weigh approximately 17 pounds per square foot.
Can Natural stone counters overhang cabinents?
Yes and it should. Our standard and most popular overhang is one-and-one-half inch; however, the overhang on island can be as much as 14" in order to support the weight of the stone. However, overhangs may be changed for a number of reasons, such as cabinet configuration or personal taste.
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