FAQs

Frequently Ask Questions

General

“When you call the Hard Rock number, (817) 788-1966, you will speak to one of our specialists who will walk you through the next steps based on your unique wants and needs. We are also happy to communicate with you via whatever method you prefer including phone call, text messaging, or emails. From there, we will schedule a time for one of our specialists to come out to your home, business, or space to measure the area where stone is needed in order to provide a preliminary estimate. Our specialist will be able to answer whatever questions you need, and are there to make sure the process is transparent and smooth. Next, it is shopping time! Based on your unique needs, the specialist will work with you to find the perfect stone for your space and will take you to the available showrooms so you can see the pieces in person. Once you have selected the stone, the specialist will set up a time to do an official template measurement, which allows us to determine how your selected stone will best fit into your space. Once the templating is complete, the stone is ready for fabrication and then installation. We will be there with you every step of the way, and are always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have during the process.”

“Generally, yes! We want to make sure your experience is as consistent and efficient as possible, which means making sure you are able to build a comfortable relationship with your specific stone team. Unless there are unique circumstances, we aim to have the same specialist serve as your official liaison throughout the process. And, in the unlikely event that someone else takes over, your specialist will ensure you have met and are comfortable with our team. Your experience throughout the process is very important to us!”

“For this question, we have to give you the age-old answer - it depends! When we provide you with a quote, it includes materials, labor, and all other costs and expenses. This amount can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the stone selected and the area of space to be covered. Once you have set up your consultation, your specialist will be able to walk you through the process and help you determine what next steps are best for you within your budget.” 

Stone Maintenance

> What should I know about my granite surface?

Granite is exceptionally stain resistant. For years architects have used granite as an external surface in commercial buildings because of its ability to withstand nature’s elements and retain its original beauty. Granite is generally impervious to water and is minimally absorbent. As a result, granite is a popular choice for exterior spaces - most of the time, liquid on granite will remain on the surface for just a few minutes. Even where certain oils or grease spill on granite, it can oftentimes be removed with a topically applied paste. Changes or staining are even smaller where you properly seal the granite every couple of years. 

 

Household activities do not cause sufficient abrasion to granite to dull it. Your granite countertop will maintain its brand new shine for decades to come.

 

Good quality granite does not need to be sealed more than once every three to five years. Sealing granite countertops is a relatively easy job and no special skill or knowledge is required to apply the sealants. It takes 10-15 minutes to reseal an average size kitchen and is simply wiped on and buffed by hand.

 

Maintenance for granite is virtually non-existent. It can be routinely cleaned with mild soap and water, or you can purchase inexpensive granite countertop cleaners from your grocery store.

Your granite is sealed before cutting even begins and this protects your stone from staining. You should re-seal every three to five years as needed. Oil spills can be problematic so, if you spill oil on your counters, clean it up as you go and do not allow it to sit on the stone for any length of time.

Granite is also scratch and heat resistant. It can withstand very high levels of heat, allowing you to move dishes from your oven or stove directly to the countertop without a problem. Heat from pots and pans will not cause any damage to your granite. Granite, in fact, will not scorch even when exposed to direct flame. You can cut or slice on your granite, but you will run the risk of dulling your knives! Other stones such as marble and limestone do not perform as predictably and we discourage their use in several places, especially the kitchen.

For long lasting beauty of your granite countertops, we apply sealer after the installation and recommend that you re-apply sealer once a year, or when water spots become difficult to remove. Care and maintenance of natural stone is very easy – simply wipe with warm water and a little mild soap. 

Do not use chemicals that may affect the high polish of the stone. Due to the natural porosity of granite, the surface may be susceptible to damage from certain liquids such as grease, oil, and citric acids when left for abnormal periods of time. Similarly, don’t use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids; cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub & tile cleaners; abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers; and do not stand, sit or walk on your granite countertops

 
> What should I know about my quartz surface?

Quartz is an engineered stone which contains resin binders and pigments. It is a very hard surface and can last a lifetime, with no variations and predictably safe patterns with many colors to choose from, including vibrant colors not found in nature. It is a perfect fit for contemporary settings.

Quartz is a stain-resistant surgane that has a low absorption rate compared to its natural stone counterparts. This is due to the use of resins and polymers during the manufacturing process. Due to its non-porous nature, cleaning a spill on a quartz countertop is easy when properly maintained. See “Is quartz difficult to maintain?.”

 

Quartz does not need to be sealed, however,  prolonged exposure to high heat can cause damage to quartz. To combat heat damage, always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot items on quartz countertops. Moreover, limit the exposure of your quartz countertops to direct sunlight. 

 

No. Virtually maintenance-free, quartz is a hard, non-porous surface that requires no sealing to renew the luster and is simple to clean. In most cases, soap and water or a mild detergent is enough to keep your quartz countertop looking like new. If necessary, use a non-abrasive soft soap along with a non-scratch or delicate scrub pad. Afterwards, thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove residue. For Stubborn Stains or Dried Spills apply a non-abrasive household cleaner (a non-abrasive cleaner will not dull the surface shine) and rinse to remove residue.

To remove adhered material such as food, gum, nail polish or even dried paint, first scrape away excess material with a plastic putty knife and then use a damp cloth to remove any marks or residual dirt.

For extra-stubborn stains, a no-scratch Scotch-Brite® pad is recommended along with the non-abrasive cleaner recommended by your local quartz distributor.

> What should I know about my quartzite surface?

Quartzite is a natural rock formed from sandstone. Namely, the metamorphic rock forms when put under immense heat and pressure under the Earth’s surface. Quartzite is known for having significant strength, density, and hardness, putting it in high demand because of its similar veining and color palette to marble, while sustaining higher resistance.

Quartzite stones do not stain easily especially when it is properly sealed. A huge advantage to quartzite countertops is that they are durable and highly resistant to blemishes such as scratches and etching from acidic substances. Quartzite is also heat-resistant allowing placement of hot pans on top of it without concern for damaging the stone. 

 

Quartzite should generally be sealed annually, which helps protect your stone from damage and maintains the shine for many years. Like with granite, sealing quartzite countertops countertops is a relatively easy job and no special skill or knowledge is required. Either spray or wipe on the sealant and let it dry. Follow the instructions on the product labels, and ensure you open your windows and have good ventilation when working with the product. 

 

Quartzite stone is very easy to maintain. If you have a spill or splatter on the countertop, you can simply wipe it off with a damp cloth. If the spill is more troublesome, use warm water and mild soap to clean the area; then dry it with a soft cloth or paper towel. Use non-abrasive cleaning products and cloths. If staining does occur, you can remove them with a commercial poultice or baking soda and water paste. Simply spread a thick layer of the paste over the affected area, cover it with plastic wrap, let it sit for a day or two, and wipe the area clean. You can repeat this process as necessary. 

 

> What should I know about my marble surface?

Marble is a sedimentary stone whose main ingredient is calcium. It comes in beautiful colors and patterns and is very elegant and beautiful. Like granite, it is individually chosen by slabs due to the variation in colors and patterns. It is softer and more fragile than granite. It is a porous material that stains very easily, and may contain pits and fissures. It is best suited for bath vanities and some tabletop projects.

Marble is more porous than its counterparts, so it can be prone to staining and etching. However, do not fret! With proper cleaning and sealing you can keep your marble countertops stunning and elegant. See “Is marble difficult to maintain?”

 

Yes. Marble countertops should be sealed every three to six months to maintain its quality. A water-based sealant is best for marble countertops. You can have your marble countertops professionally sealed or you can find a marble-specific sealant to do yourself. Follow the instructions thoroughly on your marble-specific product for the best results.

Marble is elegant, timeless, and never goes out-of-style when properly maintained. Marble does require more care and maintenance than its counterparts. Marble is a calcium-rich stone, porous and susceptible to expansion. When spills are left on a marble countertop, they seep into the pores. Over time, this leads to cracks. It’s important to wipe up any spills immediately, then wipe the area with a little water and dry immediately. Never allow wet dishes, glasses or water to stand on a marble countertop for any length of time. Water will seep into the stone and leave a permanent ring to remind you where the water was. This is caused by a permanent change in the marble’s composition and can only be removed by professional polishing. 

You’ll need to select a cleaning solution that is made specifically for cleaning marble. The best products for cleaning marble countertops include mild dish detergents or a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Use a damp soft cloth and rise well - do not forget to sop up any standing water and thoroughly dry your surface. Most regular household cleaners contain acid, which can damage the finish. Cleaners with citric acid must be avoided. Neutral cleaners, such as phosphate-free solutions or dishwashing liquids, will work in a pinch. The trick to using any cleaning agent on your countertop is to rinse the soap off immediately with warm water to avoid drying out the marble.