The Counter Top Advisor

I know Countertops - I can help you!

Can I use honed slate for a floor?

tgorse | January 31, 2010

Honed slate can be used for a flooring material, but it’s not
recommended for high-traffic areas, because it scratches easily. It’s
more appropriate for vertical surfaces.

Where can I use Travertine?

tgorse | January 28, 2010

Travertine, like marble, is more susceptible to acid etching so it
might not be the best choice for a kitchen countertop. It’s a durable
flooring material that doesn’t show a wear pattern like polished
stone, and it’s a popular choice for all surfaces in a bathroom.
Exterior applications of travertine can be questionable depending on
your climate. As with any [...]

Can you use marble for a Kitchen Counter?

tgorse | January 24, 2010

Yes, but because marble is a soft material, acids (i.e. lemon juice,
tomato juice, wine, vinegar) will etch the surface. Etching is more
visible on polished marble than it is on marble that has either a
honed or an antiqued finish. While marble in a kitchen is more likely
to etch, stain and scratch, this “patina” is what’s appealing [...]

Can I hand-select my slabs?

tgorse | January 21, 2010

Yes you may hand-select your slabs at your granite yard. Making an
appointment at the granite yard to choose slabs is not required, but
is very helpful.
Do you have remnant pieces of slab?
Yes. A minimum size job is 25 sq foot in order to buy a slab of
granite. If you have a small job, then [...]

What is Granite?

tgorse | January 19, 2010

A coarse-grained plutonic, or intrusive igneous rock composed
largely of feldspar, quartz, and some common mica. Provides a heavy
crystalline and granular appearance with mineral grains. It is the
most abundant rock in the earth’s crust, and ranges from 6 to 8 on
the MOH* Scale (measure of mineral hardness).
Is honed granite less durable than polished granite?
Honing granite opens [...]