Stone Information

We’re here to help you learn about the stone fabrication and installation process from start to finish. While we handle all of the details, it’s good to know some basic information before getting started. If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Common Stone Information

What are the different types of stones available?

Stone slabs are sliced out of large blocks into a variety of sizes and shapes. Granite, marble, sandstone and limestone are most commonly used depending upon the general requirements of aesthetic appearance, resistance to abrasion and chemicals.

Granite slabs are fabricated by the sawing of granite blocks. They possess indisputable strength and long term durability. They impart an aesthetic look and add grandeur to any indoor or exterior application. They are mostly used for exterior and interior cladding, flooring, vanities, kitchen counters, fireplaces, shower and tub surrounds.

Engineered Stone provides a uniform pattern, if this is your desired look, engineered solid surface materials are in great supply! There are virtually unlimited patterns and colors to choose from. Talk to us about matching your curtains with your stone. Silestone, Caesarstone, Difiniti Quartz, Hanstone & Dupont Zodiaq, are the top Engineered Stone (Quartz Surfaces) manufacturers.

Limestone slabs are fabricated by the sawing of limestone blocks. The surface texture is finely grained and have a very good polishing effect. The common colors used are blue, green, brown, desert yellow and black. They are used mostly for counter tops, flooring, interior and exterior wall cladding and exterior paving.

Semiprecious Stone surfaces are suitable for lining palaces, castles, museums, luxury hotels, or those seeking the most exotic precious stone slabs available. Full length mirrors may have this type of stone border added to enhance the luxurious décor of a room.

How often should stone be sealed?

A good rule of thumb is once per year, however, a simple test is the best way to determine when it is required. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface, if the water droplets “bead up”, then there is no need to seal the stone. If the water soaks into the surface or the surface becomes darker, then sealing is recommended.

For Honed Marble surfaces, please ask for assistance.

What is the difference between marble and granite?

Granite is formed deep in the earth’s mantle at extremely high temperatures, and is a very hard, resistant stone made of crystallized minerals. The marble family – limestone, travertine, marble, onyx – starts out as sediment – animal skeletons and shells, plant matter, silt – at the bottom of bodies of water. After millions of years this solidifies (lithifies) into stone. Because its main component is calcium, it can be affected by acids such as vinegar and citrus beverages. Because of Marble’s more porous properties, it is not recommended for kitchens or bar tops. Marble applications include bathroom vanities, shower and fireplace surrounds. Granite applications include kitchen countertops, bath room vanities, bar tops and fireplaces.  Although both are stones and both are quarried from the earth, granite and marble (and marble’s relatives – limestone, onyx and travertine) are very different from each other.

Is granite safe to use in a kitchen?

In a word, yes. There has been some misinformation circulated by competing industries attempting to raise concerns about issues such as bacteria and radon. We would be pleased to share the research that shows that these concerns are not only unfounded but granite actually ranks second to stainless steel in a study measuring the bacteria resistance capacity of six common countertop materials.

Can my granite top be damage?

Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. All of the fabricated tops we make are sealed before they are installed.

Can I cut on my granite countertop?

Only if you want to ruin your good knives. Granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them very quickly, if you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut and chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.

Are Stone surfaces difficult to maintain?

Granite, marble and other natural stone products are porous materials and, therefore, require sealing. Every Stone Fabricators top is sealed upon installation. For residential use, it is recommended that the surface be sealed annually using sealant designed for use with natural stone. The sealant is available from Stone Fabricators. The process is similar to waxing your car.

 

Buying Stone Guideline

How do I choose a stone fabricator?

The process of purchasing custom stone is more detailed than, for example, buying carpeting. As with any purchase, you need to determine what criteria are most important to you. Are you searching for the absolute lowest price or looking more for overall superior value? Is timely completion important? How heavily do you weigh the quality of materials and workmanship of both the fabrication and installation? Do you value responsive service, integrity and the caliber of people that you deal with and will have working in your home? Be prepared to ask tough questions to determine the proper fit with a reputable source

Where do I begin? How do I get an estimate?

We make it easy for you to participate in the process of selecting your stone and your options. You will need to start by providing us with some measurements or contact our sales department to set up a free in-house estimate. If you just want to get a idea of cost you can email or fax a sketch of your project to us. Below is an example of the information needed to give you a price.

Kitchen Sketch example

Note:the X’s indicate what sides get the finished edge.

How does Stone Fabricators handle stone seams?

By combining superior cutting and forming equipment with meticulous, well trained installers, Stone Fabricators provides the cleanest seams available from a stone fabricator. Unlike some of our more cost conscious competitors, your Stone Fabricators’ Project Manager will be happy to show you the planned location of the seams for your project.

Our layout designers work to minimize the number of seams required for your project, another Stone Fabricators difference. Our advanced fabrication processes provide more flexibility for minimizing the need for seams wherever possible. Additionally, our digital capabilities make it possible to match the natural patterns of the stone, minimizing the appearance of the seam(s). This step makes Stone Fabricators’ projects stand out among our competition.

From Granite to Marble to Engineered Stone, we have The Best Stone Selection and Installers in St. Louis

Our website is designed to give you an idea of what we can accomplish, but talking with one of our stone experts is the first step towards making your dream a reality. Please send us any questions you may have about your next stone project.