Granite

Granite makes a beautiful choice if you're looking for a strong and durable stone countertop. Granite is not as porous as other natural stones. It's high density allows you to eliminate cutting boards and trivets. Granite is extremely hard and durable, and is practically scratch proof. Hot cookware can be placed directly on the counter surface. Granite countertops are easily cleaned because of granite's low porosity.

Granite is a type of igneous rock, which means it was once molten and it formed as it cooled deep within the earth. Different minerals within granite may appear as small specks and flecks throughout the stone, creating the salt and pepper look. Other types of granite may have veining similar to marble with dramatic composition and color. It can be highly polished and shiny, honed (a mat finish), or in a variety of new textures. Granite is available in hundreds of colors.

Marble

Marble is a smooth countertop material with a traditional, classic appeal. Its cool surface is ideal for baking and rolling out dough. Marble is less durable than granite and is susceptible to scratches and stains, so it may require future sealants.

Soapstone

Soapstone can be treated with mineral oils to enhance colors, and offers a soft feel. Soapstone appeals to homeowners who want something just a little different. Soapstone is an alternative with a unique "soapy" texture, but it is more susceptible to stains and scratches and therefore is best suited for lower impact areas such as bathrooms.

Onyx

Onyx is a natural stone that is considered to be semi precious. Onyx is available in a color range from white to deep green. Due to its translucent appearance, this stone is particularly stunning when backlit. It is quite a soft stone similar to limestone and will scratch and stain easily.

Is granite safe to use in my 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 counter top materials.

Can my granite top be damaged?

Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to hard objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. All granite installed by Creative Stoneworks (unless specified otherwise by a customer) is sealed twice, once prior to leaving our shop and once after final installation. Therefore, stone installed by Creative Stoneworks is unlikely to stain. Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances.

Are stone surfaces difficult to maintain? How often do I have to seal it?

Granite, marble and other natural stone products are porous materials and therefore require sealing. Every Creative Stoneworks top is sealed during fabrication and again upon installation. For residential use, we recommend that the surface be cleaned using REVITALIZER, a cleaner and sealer reactivator, designed for use with natural stone at least once or twice a month (however many customers prefer to use this product as their daily cleaner). This product reactivates the sealant used by Creative Stoneworks which eliminates the need for customers to reseal their countertops. A simple solution of warm water and regular dish soap is the perfect countertop cleaner for day to day cleaning purposes.

Why should I choose Creative Stoneworks?

While our pricing is competitive, we feel that there are other more exciting reasons for choosing Creative Stoneworks.

• We are focused on providing an amazing customer experience! Creative Stoneworks staff works with each customer to ensure that everything from selecting the stone to laying out the design to final installation is an enjoyable experience.
• We are a reliable, experienced team of professionals! From helping you make informed decisions on which stones would work best for your project to ensuring your home is tidied up and your stone is sparkling after final installation, our staff will be bending over backwards to make sure your stone installation is the favorite part of your project!
• We've been in business since 2003. We were here yesterday and we are going to be here tomorrow to help you with any of your stone needs.