Choosing a Granite Countertop - Questions to Ask

So you’ve decided to go with granite for your new or remodeled kitchen or bathroom. You’ve found a granite warehouse and installer, and you are headed off to choose the perfect color. What are some questions you should ask when you arrive?

1. What colors are standard and which ones are upgrades? Most granite warehouses have their standard colors that they stock and will give you great pricing on, so make sure you ask to see slabs that fit in your budget.

2. Do you include a backsplash? If you are not doing a tile backsplash, you should be sure to order at least a 4” backsplash for the perimeter of the kitchen or bathroom cabinets. If you are doing a tile backsplash, you can choose to install the 4” backsplash, or just tile down to the countertop.

3. How often should I seal the granite? Some granite companies will seal your granite when needed for the lifetime of the countertop as part of their package, so be sure to clarify what services they include and which ones they don’t.

4. You Will you tag the slabs that I am choosing today? Once you solidify your selections, make sure that they tag the slabs that you have chosen. Many slabs have the same name but will have a different tone to them based on the shipment and location they were mined from. Have the representative tag the slabs that you have chosen so ensure that you get the stone you are seeing.

5. Can I come back and layout my slabs after you measure? Once your cabinets are installed, the granite fabricator will come out and do a detailed measure. You should absolutely go to the granite warehouse at this point and give some input on the layout of your stone. Look for unappealing lines/colors in the stone, or imperfections that may not look good if they were placed in the center of your island. Your representative should be able to draw your dimensions on the slabs to ensure that you have a proper layout to maximize the look of your kitchen.

Be sure to get references and see some previous work – Granite can be troublesome if not installed and sealed properly. Ask the right questions so you can make informed decisions.Visit Quantum Building & Design for more pictures and tips.