FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What is granite?
Granite is one of earth's most interesting features. It is a natural product, born over millions of years of compression and movement of the ground. Granite is quarried in its natural form, cut into slabs by a machine, and then polished and edged to create a final finished product.
What is a sealer?
A sealer is like a coat of armor for your stone, tile or grout. Our sealer will decrease the opportunity that anything can stain or harm your surface. We believe that you should always use an impregnation sealer allowing you to retain the natural beauty of the surface.
How often do you have to seal granite?
Frequently homeowners are told to seal granite once per year, but with the advancements in technology, new granite sealers are designed to last 3-5 years. Check the information that accompanies your sealer product for manufacturer recommendations.
Does a Professional have to come to my house to seal my stone?
No, sealing your stone is something a homeowner can do quickly and easily. Sealer is a liquid that can be applied to the stone surface with a clean, dry cloth. Once applied, the excess is removed with a cloth, and the surface is allowed to dry. Check the information that accompanies your sealer product for manufacturer recommendations.
Is granite a place where bacteria grows?
Bacteria cannot live on granite, as stone will not support bacterial growth. In fact, granite is second only to stainless steel in its ability to resist bacterial growth.
Is one coat of sealer enough for natural stone?
When sealing a very dense stone, one coat will be sufficient. Most stones will require two coats. A few of the less dense stones may need additional coats to be properly sealed.
Why should I seal my natural stone?
A protected stone will be easier to clean, resist staining, and provide a safer and healthier environment. Considering the investment, why wouldn't you provide the surface with the maximum protection possible.
How do I keep my stone clean?
We recommend using a cleaner specially formulated for natural stone. General purpose cleaning products can damage natural stone or the sealer applied, so don’t just pick anything off of the shelf at the grocery store. Improperly formulated cleaners or those with acids (such as porcelain or tile cleaners) may etch the surface of the stone. Make sure that you select a cleaner specially formulated for natural stone care.
Will my granite need seams?
In most all cases, a typical kitchen needs at least one seam. Once we measure your kitchen we can inform you of where the seams will be. For "directional stone" (stone that has alot of variation or "movement"), our installers work extra hard to ensure the seams are seen as a natural "flow" of the granite. In a "non-directional" stone (one that looks more uniform), the seams will virtually disappear.
The Countertop Specialists
Showcase Design Marble & Granite Fabricators, Inc.
10013 Fayetteville Rd - Rte 401N
Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
Your Kitchen & Bath Granite Resource
Kitchen Countertops
Bathroom Vanities
Serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill
Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina
Morrisville, Garner & Beyond
90-Day Financing only available
to residents in the state
of North Carolina
Phone (919) 577-9908
Fax (919) 577-0258
Hours Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-2
Sun & Evenings by Appointment
