FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

D&J Tile is committed to using only the highest quality products for your special stone project. We’ve compiled a series of Frequently Asked Questions to share our appreciation and understanding of stone and granite.

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I noticed that my natural stone is not uniform in color. Is this normal?

Yes, all natural stone has variation in color and markings. These dramatic qualities add to the uniqueness and beauty of the material.

What other variations does natural stone exhibit?

With natural stone, any or all of the following characteristics may be present:

Variations in veining, color, and movement that may be present in any natural materials. Materials that are referred to as “Swirl” granites exhibit more of these types of natural occurrences.
Fissures: Small visible lines on the surface of the polished or honed slab which rarely indicate or affect the structural integrity of the product.
Beauty marks: natural mineral deposit concentration that can be seen as intensified spots or lines of color, lack of color, or areas with compromised polishing ability.
Pitting: “pock marks” of varying size on the surface of the slab which are a result of the tightness of the material grain and the material’s ability to accept polished finish.

Can I hand-select my natural stone slabs?

Yes, we strongly encourage you to take the opportunity to personally approve your natural stone. We also provide samples in order to assist with your material selection. Please note that these samples offer general representation of the overall color and markings of each product and are not meant as an exact replication of the actual product.

If I provide my own slab can you fabricate for me?

Absolutely. We specialize in creating projects to order.

Do you offer remnants for small countertops?

All slabs are sold in full sheets only, typically 60” x 100”.

Do I need to seal my stone countertop? If so, how often?

We always seal the countertops immediately after installation. Eventually- depending on how heavily the tops are used- the sealer gets washed out. If you want to preserve the stain resistance performance, you must seal your countertops yearly. We recommend using a penetrating sealer in lieu of any topical types available on the market.

Are Engineered Stone and Natural Stone the same thing?

No. Natural Stone is a product of nature. This has been formed over millions of years through changes in heat and pressure. Natural Stone is quarried from the earth in blocks and then cut into slabs.

Engineered stone is manufactured in factories. It is usually made of crushed natural stone or recycled material, bonded together by acrylic or polyester resin.

What is the difference between marble and granite countertops?

The look, the maintenance, and the care of the stones will vary. Marble is a softer stone, and will etch easier. It is a more delicate natural stone when compared to granite.

What is etching?

When common acids in the kitchen such as lime juice, vinegar and alcohols come into contact with minerals in the stone it causes damage to stone surface referred to as etching. Etched spots may feel rougher or seem dull. Etching is more visible on polished granite and marble than either honed or leather finish.

Can I use marble (honed/polished/leather) for my kitchen countertop?

Yes. In fact, marbles that have honed finish will not etch because the surface starts out with a matte finish. Since ancient times, people have created a warm, welcoming atmosphere in their homes by using stone tops, floors and furnishing.

However, because marbles contain Calcium Carbonate, they are more susceptible to common acids in the kitchen such as lemon juice, vinegar, wine and tomato juice (etching).

Can you explain the different finishes for stone?

There are many finishes and options available. Here are the most widely used:

Polished - A high gloss surface.

Honed - Smooth without a polished surface.

Brushed/Antique - Acid washed and wire brushed for a smooth textured surface.

Flamed – achieved by heating the surface of the stone to extreme temperature, followed by rapid cooling. The surface of the stone pops and chips leaving a rough, unrefined texture.

Sandblasted - Forcing solid particles across the stone surface at high speed achieving a rough texture. Sandblasting typically lighten the stone color.

Bush-hammered - Creates texturized, rough stone surface that resembles naturally weathered rock.

How long will my Natural Stone last?

With proper care and maintenance your Natural Stone will last for generations.

How do I care for my new countertop? Are there any precautions?

The best way to protect stone’s natural beauty is by following common sense guidelines.

Use coasters under all glasses, soda cans, especially those containing alcohol and lime juice. The acid found in most common foods can etch or dull the surface of most stones.
Never use powdered cleansers or abrasive products to clean your stone. Even soft scrub type cleaners contain pumice. This powdered volcanic stone may damage your stone countertops or floors.
Never use any product which is acidic, including substances like ammonia or many common liquid cleaners such as Windex. You should always use sealer and cleaning products designed specially for natural stone.

How much does a stone countertop cost?

Stone countertop costs will vary depending on your layout, material selection and your choice of details. Exotics, hard to finds, and blues are usually more expensive. Sink cut outs, outlet holes, arches and curves, as well as custom edgings add to the cost.