General
The amount of time it takes for Maryland Quartz & Granite to fabricate your countertops is generally determined by the size of the job. However, most kitchen projects are completed within 7 to 10 working days.
While, Maryland Quartz & Granite often works on several projects simultaneously and delays sometimes do occur, please keep in mind that much of our reputation is that of impeccable craftsmanship. We will not compromise the quality of your project or that of other clients simply to avoid a small delay. At the same time we also keep firm control of our fabrication/ installation schedule to avoid such delays. In the end, you will be pleased with our work and your beautiful kitchen will be well worth the wait.
Maryland Quartz & Granite takes great pride in not only the quality of workmanship, but also in the strides we take to minimize the mess and level of inconvenience to the homeowner.
For all of the precautions that we do take, because this is a construction project, homeowners should expect an element of dust in the house. We recommend waiting until the final installation is complete before doing any type of thorough cleaning.
We price each project based on your unique specifications. Because there are so many variables, we believe you will get the best price using your dimensions and specifications. You will know the price of your job prior to signing a contract. We will not change the price unless there are changes in the scope of the job.
Solid surface, quartz and granite are all mid to high-end countertop materials. Typically, individuals interested in a specific “look” that is only available with a specific material will not necessarily be happy with a compromise. Each material has its advantages. However, there is no such thing as a perfect counter material.
We try extremely hard to avoid seams, but the reality is that the majority of kitchen countertops will have a seam no matter how hard we try. We are limited to the dimensions of the slab and consumption of material figured for the project.
Granite
Heat will cause granite countertops to chip and crack. Granite counters are heat resistant and can withstand the heat of hot pots and pans without damage. Impact from a heavy object may chip granite but heat from anything short of a blowtorch will not affect your countertop.
One method you can use to check if your granite needs to be resealed is to sprinkle some water on your countertops. If the water soaks into the stone and does not bead up, then we would recommend resealing your granite.
Yes, Granite is an extremely tough, durable material and in most cases can be used as a cutting surface without fear of scratching the stone (although knives may dull the surface by repeated cutting on the stone). However, with that being said, we always recommend using a cutting board.
Yes, Granite is ideal for kitchens because under normal conditions it will not burn. Granite will not be harmed by hot pots, pans or open flames.
Granite is a very dense material and under normal conditions it is chip and scratch resistant. However, pots, pans and other heavy objects may chip the square edge around a sink area.
In general it is unlikely. All stone and quartz counters are porous to some extent, however granite has very little porosity relative to other stones. Most granite colors will never show moisture but some colors will show a dark spot if a puddle of liquid is left on the counter for a period of time. To be safe, be sure that your granite is sealed properly before or during installation.
Though not necessary, all granites are sealed. The sealer used is a penetrating sealer that does not change the color of the stone. It penetrates the stone and will help prevent staining. However, it will not stop the penetration of moisture entirely. When a liquid that might cause staining spills on top, it should be cleaned up as soon as possible.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful stone but most marbles are not recommended for use in the kitchen because of its tendency to stain, etch, and scratch. However because of its beauty and the classic look, marble is an excellent choice for vanities, wet bars and fireplace surrounds.
Yes and no on the hot pans. You can usually put hot pans on marble without severe damage, however it can discolor and ALL stone and stone products like quartz can experience “thermal shock” from extreme temperature potentially causing cracks. Doesn’t happen often, but possible.
Marble is softer and more porous than the nearly indestructible granite, and so it can etch (scratch) and stain in a way that granite usually won’t.
Hard stone countertops like granite and quartz can withstand knife work in the kitchen without scratching. … So, marble is still certainly a stone that’s worth considering in your kitchen, as long as you always use a cutting board when dealing with knives.
Quartz
No, quartz countertops are a durable countertop surface for kitchens because under normal conditions they will not burn. However, our experience has shown that the man-made elements of quartz such as the resin can and in many cases discolor.
Quartz is resistant to cracks, chips, scratches and stains. Although it is very durable, excessive amounts of stress from objects can harm the surface.
Due to its high density and non-porous attributes, normal cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent will keep your surface looking new. To avoid dulling the surface’s shine, use a non-abrasive cleaner, and thoroughly rinse off with water after each use.
To remove any spills use a damp cloth and carefully take warm water combined with soap and apply to the soiled area. For tougher stains, apply a non abrasive cleanser. If food or gum need to be removed; first scrape the soiled area using a plastic putty knife, then apply a damp cloth to remove any remaining debris.