Generally, 80% of granite is composed of three main minerals: feldspar, quartz and mica.

Granite can range from $54 – $80 per square foot installed. Price is affected by number of cutouts, edge and color selection. Visit with our sales staff to determine an exact price for your kitchen. Prices are subject to change.

Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is all that is generally required. However, once or twice a year a re-application of a penetrating sealer should be performed. Granite is a very porous surface, and without a penetrating sealer it is likely to absorb moisture which can increase the likelihood of staining and bacterial growth.

Since all granite is made by nature, no two slabs are the same, requiring careful inspection of each slab. It can be difficult to guarantee color consistency. This also makes it difficult to match other granite already installed-mostly dark colors, no whites.

Granite is not approved by the National Sanitation Federation (NSF) for meeting food preparation standards because it is highly porous and absorbs moisture. This means potential for mold, mildew and bacterial growth exists.

Granite is Heat resistant. However, stone can potentially be damaged by sudden and rapid temperature changes, especially near the edges.

Generally, any liquid spilled on a granite top will not leave a stain if wiped up immediately. However, water, wine and grape juice can soak into a granite countertop and leave a dark colored spot. Liquids that do not evaporate, such as oils, will cause stains if left to soak into the stone.

Granite’s composition is inconsistent. Because of the proportions of granite’s mineral vary within each slab, strength also varies. Those with a higher percentage of quartz are stronger. When tested, granite cracked at 3414 pounds. On Moh’s scale of hardness, where a diamond is a 10, granite is a 5.

Once installed, there is NO WARRANTY on granite.

Engineered stone is composed of approximately 93% quartz and 7% resin and pigment.

Quartz can range from  $62-$110 per sq/ft.  Price is affected by number of cutouts, edge and color selection. Visit with our sales staff to determine an exact price for your kitchen. Prices are subject to change.

Engineered stone is carefree and requires no sealing, buffing, polishing or reconditioning.  Just wipe clean with soap and water and the stone naturally maintains its luster.

Since engineered stone is manufactured, any variance in product to sample is nominal.

Engineered stone is approved by the National Sanitation Federation (NSF) for meeting food preparation standards because it is non-porous and does not support the growth of bacteria, mold or mildew. It is certified for both Splash Zone and Food Zone preparation.

Engineered stone is resistant to direct heat exposure up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It is structurally more resilient to heat than any other stone, including granite. However, all stone can be damaged by sudden and rapid temperature changes, especially near the edges. Therefore, it is recommended to use trivets or hot pads.

Due to engineered stone’s non-porous surface it will not stain. It has been tested against stains such as wine, food color, fruit juices, liquid food coloring, tea, grapes, paints, nail polish and remover, and permanent markers.

Engineered stone is scratch resistant and will not be harmed by even the finest cutlery. Engineered stone is a 7 in strength on Moh’s hardness scale (a diamond is a 10, natural granite is a 5). Engineered stone is more resilient to surface damage than any other stone, including granite. However, all stone can be damaged by excessive force or pressure. Generally, only diamonds and quartz itself will scratch engineered stone.

All engineered stone (quartz) manufacturers offer a minimum of a 10-year Warranty.  Cambria does come with a lifetime warranty.