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Custom Edges

FAQs

We’ve attempted to answer the questions that people ask most often about National Granite and stone countertops. If you don't find the answer you're looking for in our FAQ section, we invite you to send your question to us by submitting the QUICK CONTACT form which you'll find on the right side of this page. Depending on your preference, we'll respond by email or phone within 48 hours. Better yet, give us a call. Our phone number is 818-266-2252. 

1. Are you licensed?

2. Does the price include everything?

3. Are there any hidden fees?

4. What is the lead time (how long does it take to complete the process)?

5. What do I need to do to prepare for installation of my countertops?

6. Will your crews be in my home or office every day until the job is finished?

7. Do I get to select my own slab?

8. How do I choose the right stone?

9. What do you mean by porous stone?

10. What do you mean by non-porous stone?

11. Do my countertops need to be sealed?

12. How often does granite need to be sealed?

13. Does a professional have to come in and seal natural stone?

14. Will my countertop have a seam?

15. Can granite be used outside?

16. What about natural stone in the bathroom?

17. How long will natural stone countertops last?

18. Is there a warranty?

19. How do I get a free estimate?

20. What if I have more questions or just need some advice?

 

Question: Are you licensed?
Answer: Yes, we’re licensed in the state of California. We’re insured for liability and carry Workman’s Compensation Insurance. 

Question: Does the price include everything?
Answer: Yes, the price quoted to you includes consultation, countertop design and edge profile, demolition of existing countertops, fabrication and installation, and clean-up of the areas where we’re working.

Question: Are there any hidden fees?
Answer: No, not one. We're not a middle man and we don't hire subcontractors, so you'll never have to worry that someone else will come along and add charges for this or that. We promise to deliver our products and services as agreed without extra expense to you in any way...and that's that!

Question: What is the lead time (how long does it take to complete the process)?
Answer: From template to installation of countertops usually takes about 7-10 business days. However, if you want countertops installed in a hurry, call now and let's talk about how we can make that happen. Our phone number is 818-266-2252.

Question: What do I need to do to prepare for installation of my countertops?
Answer: Appliances that will be integrated into your countertop design need to be firmly in place. Examples are your stove, dishwasher, sink, faucets; or any other item that will require a cutout or hole in the top. Also, remove everything from your existing countertops and the contents of drawers and cabinets where new countertops will be installed. 

Question: Will your crews be in my home or office every day until the job is finished?
Answer: No, the bulk of our work is done away from your property. We’ll come to your site to measure the project area and create a template (a template is a pattern that's used to cut surfaces to precise measurements). Then, we’ll take the template to our facility and use it to fabricate your customized countertop.  In about 7 business days, we'll return to your site and install your new countertop. Depending on the complexity of your project, installation takes 1-2 days. During the entire process, we'll spend no more than 3 days in your home or business.

Question: Do I get to select my own slab?
Answer: Yes, our owner, Carlos Chavarria, will escort you through the granite yard, where you'll touch and see some of the most beautiful slabs of stone you've ever laid eyes on. Carlos will focus on presenting you with choices that capture the essence of your distinctive environment. Then, you personally will hand select the actual slab we'll use (Hint: it's the one that sends little shivers down your spine).

Question: How do I choose the right stone?
Answer: Part of natural stone's allure is its throng of color variations and patterns. Because each slab is the only one of its kind, we suggest you bring along a cabinet drawer, samples of your flooring or any other component of your countertop’s surroundings that you won't be changing. This will help you to envision the finished look of your space.

Question: What do you mean by porous stone?
Answer: Porous means “full of pores.” All natural stone is porous, which means it has interconnected capillaries through which liquids and gases can move. More porous stone will absorb liquids relatively quickly. Stones that are less porous may take an hour or more to absorb oils and water-based liquids. 

Question: What do you mean by non-porous stone?
Answer: Non-Porous means a smooth, unpainted solid surface that limits penetration of liquids containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) beyond the immediate surface. Nonporous surfaces reduce the potential for bacterial growth from food absorbing in your countertop.

Question: Do my countertops need to be sealed?
Answer: It depends on the surface you choose. It's recommended that you seal porous countertops like granite to prevent chemicals and other damaging substances from causing stains and discoloration. Because of their high density, the need for sealing non-porous countertops like CaesarStone® is eliminated.

Question: How often does granite need to be sealed?
Answer: Not all sealers are the same. Traditionally, homeowners have been told to seal their granite annually. Countertops that aren't used on a regular basis, in a guest house for instance, can be sealed less often than countertops that are used every day.

Question: Does a professional have to come in and seal natural stone?
Answer: No, sealers are easy to work with and sealing natural stone is something a homeowner can easily do. You can find a variety of countertop sealers in your local home store. Be sure to read sealer product labels carefully.

Question: Will my countertop have a seam?
Answer: Most countertops require at least one seam. The visibility of the seam is affected by the pattern and color of the stone. We've developed a strict 10-point process to ensure your countertop is crafted to perfection. Seams are joined with epoxy and the joined area is meticulously smoothed. After that, we hand polish the seam for 3 hours. The result is seamless gloss and enduring beauty.

Question: Can granite be used outside?
Answer: Yes, granite is often used for outdoor kitchens, poolside areas, as pavers for driveways and walkways, as stair treads, and as exterior cladding on commercial buildings.

Question: What about natural stone in the bathroom?
Answer:  Natural stone is superb for creating a private retreat of spa-like indulgence in the bathroom. Ask about our remarkable vanity specials. Our expert craftsmen also install tile and back splashes in hues to complement the stone surface of your choice.

Question: How long will natural stone countertops last?
Answer: With the proper care, your countertops will literally last for generations. Natural stone has been quarried for centuries and some are as old as the earth!

Question: Is there a warranty?
Answer: CaesarStone® carries a limited lifetime warranty. Even though granite is one of the most durable countertop surfaces known to mankind, it is a natural stone and cannot have a warranty placed on it. However, we personally warranty all labor for 1 year. For more information about warranties on the surface of your choice, please send us a message by submitting our QUICK CONTACT form or call us direct at 818-266-2252.

Question: How do I get a free estimate?
Answer:
 Simply fill out our Free Estimate form and submit your request. You'll hear from us within 48 hours. Homeowners, submit the Free Estimate form and SAVE 25% while supplies last! Need an estimate in a hurry? Call right now, while you're thinking about it. The number is 818-266-2252.

Question: What if I have more questions or just need some advice?
Answer: We'll be delighted to offer our professional advice or answer your questions regarding on-site estimates, stone variations, fabrication, installation, special requests; or anything else you want to know about National Granite and the custom kitchen countertops you're fantasizing about. If you have a question that isn't answered in our FAQ section, please don't hesitate to send us your question using the QUICK CONTACT form on this page. For an immediate answer, call 818-266-2252 now.  We're ready to serve you!