FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I WANT NEW COUNTERTOPS, HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Send us a drawing via email with rough dimensions including sink, fridge and stove locations. We will also need to know if you want backsplash. Unless otherwise specified, we will estimate your project using entry and mid-range stone pricing. We are also available by phone to start the process with you Mon-Fri 8-4.
After getting an estimate, you should determine what kind of stone you plan on putting on your countertops, you can explore and learn about different options on the "Our Products" page, or you can browse quartz samples from our list of supplier's .
Based on what you decide, we can either arrange a meeting with one of our suppliers to pick out your stone, look at samples at our office (for quartz) or you can go view slabs (for granite or Soapstone) at any of the locations listed on our supplier's page, anytime during their normal business hours.
Once you decide on a stone, we can finalize your quote, and from here we will work with you and the supplier to arrange a schedule to complete your project. Before you know it you will have a new elegant look in your home!

WHY CHOOSE GRANITE, QUARTZ, OR MARBLE?

Granite is a natural stone from the earth. It's very durable and scratch resistant. Granite typically has a complex blend-like pattern that hides stains and blemishes better, so is a favorite for hard use customers i.e families, businesses, or otherwise high traffic areas. Granite is porous, so it does require a sealer. (See our sealer guarantee here)

Quartz is the primary component in engineered stone, and engineered stone is commonly referred to as quartz. Quartz is the major filler, although other material such as colored glass, shells, metals, or mirrors might be added. A typical material will consist of 93% quartz by weight and 7% resin. Different types of resins and mixtures are used by different manufacturers so there are different variations of quartz to resin consistency. Due to the manufacturing process, manufactured quartz will give you an elegant look with a consistent pattern throughout the stone, and what you see in a sample will be represented across the entire slab. Quartz is non-porous, so it does not require a sealer.

Marble is made up of calcium carbonate, much like chalk or limestone, but in a compressed and crystallized form, so this stone is highly porous. Because of its make-up, acids can easily erode the surface permanently -- It will even fizz, like baking soda in vinegar -- It will also crack and scratch easily. Most marbles have little variation in pattern, and some slabs can be pure white, so stains and blemishes may stand out more. It is for these reasons we generally suggest not to use marble in kitchens.

DO I NEED SEALER?

First, find out if your stone is porous at all (even semi) if it is, the short answer is yes, you will need a sealer. Sealants block liquids from seeping into the stone, and a properly sealed countertop will cause liquids to bead on the surface. Liquids with color such as grape juice, and red wine, along with fatty substances like cooking oil, grease, or petroleum products can permanently stain stone that is porous.

DO I NEED A PLUMBER?

Yes, while West Michigan Granite is happy to help with all your stone needs, our hands are tied due to licensing. There are many restrictions when it comes to assisting in other aspects of home improvement such as plumbing, tear-out, and electrical. We do, however, work with many designers and builders and would be happy to give you a good reference.