Portland's Granite Counter Top Professionals

Peace Of Mind - Granite Counter Tops From Crowley's Granite Concepts

Granite Countertops - F.A.Q.'s

Question: What is the difference between granite and quartz? Which is better?

There are 3 main differences:

1. Granite is “quarried”, which means it is cut out of the ground and is truly natural while Quartz is “engineered”, meaning it is a combination of crushed quartz crystals and a bonding resin.

2. Granite is porous and must be “maintained”, meaning a sealer must be applied periodically to resist staining and Quartz is non porous and maintenance free due to the engineering process.

3. Granite can withstand the extreme and sustained heat of any kitchen scenario, i.e. griddles, crock-pots, and hot dishes out of the oven or off the stove. Quartz is also heat resistant but cannot withstand the sustained heat of griddles and crock-pots.

As to which is better, it really depends on what you want in a kitchen counter. You may want the unmatched, natural beauty and selection of granite or the worry free, maintenance free aspect of Quartz. You can cut on both and they both will add value and usability to your kitchen like no other product on the market.

Question: Are 3cm (1 ¼”) stone counters better than 2cm (3/4”) stone counters? What’s the real difference?

3cm (1 1/8th”) stone counters are thicker than their 2cm (3/4”) counterparts and in that respect are stronger, but not necessarily better. In a kitchen counter application, when installed correctly, either thickness is more than adequate as far as strength is concerned. The differences between the two are really cosmetic. Almost all 2cm (3/4”) counters are laminated on the finished edge, meaning the granite actually appears to be 4cm (1 ½”) thick. When placed next to a 3cm edge it actually appears thicker. A common concern and deciding factor is the backsplash thickness. Many people consider a 3cm backsplash too thick and disproportionate to the counters. Often, the real deciding factor comes down to material availability. Many granites come in both thicknesses and Cambria Quartz only in 3cm, so it really depends on the batch of stone you most prefer.

Question: Can I select my slabs?

Yes, in-fact we strongly encourage you to view and select your slabs. We do this for 2 reasons: 1. Finding the perfect slab is an emotional experience and you should have opportunity and the joy of actually selecting slabs for your kitchen. They will become conversation pieces for years to come. 2. Samples don’t always represent the actual slab and we want to know exactly what is going to be installed in your kitchen.

Question: Does Crowley’s have a showroom? Is it open to the public?

Yes, we have a full service showroom designed specifically with you in mind. From color selections and edge details to joint quality and backsplash options, our showroom is truly an experience in itself. Call us to set a time to come and see it.

Question: Do we have samples?

Yes, we carry 2 full lines of granite samples and samples of our entire Cambria Quartz product line. But we still encourage you to view the slabs before your final decision is made.

Question: How long will does it take to get granite counters installed?

Crowley’s Granite Concepts, Inc is unique in that it guarantees a 6 day turn around from template to installation. For example if we were to template your kitchen on Monday, it would be installed the following Tuesday…..Guaranteed.

Question: What is our “cost per square foot”?

Cost per square foot can be a deceiving measurement for the cost of a granite counter top. With innumerable color selections, edge selections, sink options, and your specific layout, the cost can vary wildly. As such, we are reluctant to give a blanket cost per square foot. But if you really need an idea of what it costs, an average kitchen will run $3800-$5500 for all labor and materials.

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