FAQs
California Granite & Flooring
What is the difference between quartz, granite, and marble?
Granite, marble, and quartz are all popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Granite, a natural stone, is widely preferred due to its durability and resistance to stains and scratches. Marble, also natural, offers unique patterns but is more prone to staining and scratching due to its porous nature. Quartz, a manufactured stone composed of 92% quartz and 8% resin, provides a wide range of colors and designs. It's the least porous, making it highly resistant to stains and scratches. In general, it requires minimal maintenance. We can help you find the right countertop material for your property.How do I clean and care for my granite countertops?
For routine cleaning, use mild soap and warm water, then rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. If you prefer a stone cleaner, we suggest 409 Stone Cleaner. Be cautious not to use excessive soap or cleaner as it may leave streaks or a film. Avoid cleaners containing acid, such as bathroom or tub cleaners. To protect against stains, apply a sealer annually for granite and biannually for marble. Our stones are sealed during installation, but for heavily used countertops, we recommend sealing twice a year regardless of stone type. Contact us for this service or to learn more about stone care.Where does granite come from?
At California Granite & Flooring, the majority of our granite is sourced from Brazil, with additional imports from Italy, Spain, China, and India. Granite forms from volcanic magma beneath the Earth's surface, taking millions of years to cool and harden. During this process, the magma combines with various minerals, creating the intricate patterns and designs visible in the stone. As surrounding softer materials erode over time, the hard granite is exposed, forming what we call a granite quarry.Does granite stain?
Generally, granite is resistant to staining. However, all stone has some degree of porosity. At CG&F, we advise keeping your stone properly sealed to prevent staining. Some granite colors are more susceptible to staining than others. Spills involving acidic liquids or the use of harsh cleaners can increase the risk of spots or stains. Additionally, allowing any liquid to sit on the countertop for an extended period may result in dark stains or spots.Do you install backsplashes?
Yes, we offer backsplash installation services. Typically, backsplashes are installed three to four days after the countertop installation. Our design experts at CG&F are available to assist you in completing your desired look.Will my countertops have a seam/joint?
We understand no one wants seams in their countertops. However, seams may be necessary depending on the layout of your countertops. Our highly skilled installation team will ensure that any seams are virtually unnoticeable by carefully color-matching them to your granite.How long will it take?
After you select your material, we require a lead time of three to seven business days for templating, fabrication, polishing, and installation. An average-sized kitchen installation, including removal of old countertops and installation of new ones, is usually completed in one day. For a precise estimate, talk to CG&F today.What is the difference between 3-cm and 2-cm granite?
3-cm granite has a thickness of 1.25 inches and is the standard for kitchens. 2-cm granite is .75-inch thick and is commonly used for vanities, table tops, and bars. Please note that actual thickness may vary slightly depending on the quarry.Can I re-use my existing sink?
While it's possible to reuse your existing sink, we strongly recommend against it. The countertop installation process provides an ideal opportunity to update your plumbing fixtures. Moreover, once the new countertops are in place, replacing the sink later becomes extremely challenging. We encourage you to explore our selection of popular sinks at CG&F.What is the difference between prefabricated and full slab granite?
Prefabricated granite refers to pre-cut and finished pieces, typically used for standard-sized countertops. Full slab granite involves cutting and finishing an entire granite slab to fit your specific space. While full slab granite offers more customization options, it often comes at a higher cost compared to prefabricated options. Talk to us about both options at CG&F.