FAQs

Q? What do I need to do to have my kitchen/bath ready for a template/ Install?

A. You will be given a checklist by your sales associate or contractor of everything you need to do to have your space ready for template, if you do not receive one please call our office and ask for one.

Q? Do you have information about caring for granite countertops?

A. We sure do! In fact we make it a point to provide care information to all of our customers.

Q? What is the typical overhang on countertops?

A. The typical overhang on all exposed edges of countertops is 1". if you would like an additional overhang on a countertop, island, or raised bar, you must be present when the field measurements are taken by us. This information along with other specifications must be given to the measurer at the time of the measurement.

Q? If I have an over hang of more than 6" on a countertop or raised bar, do I need any supports?

A. Yes, any stone that has an overhang of at least 6" on a countertop or raised bar needs to be supported by brackets. We will advise you of how many you will need and what size they need to be. These brackets must be on the job site at the time of the install.

Q? Why do you make a template of the countertops, and how long will it usually take?

A. We template to ensure precision work. A template job takes 2 to 3 hours on average.

Q? What is the procedure for using an undermount sink? A drop-in sink?

A. If you plan to use an undermount sink, it must be delivered to our shop AT LEAST ONE WEEK prior to your installation date. The stone sink rim is cut, shaped, and polished at our shop. Any faucet holes that need to be drilled are done on the job site on the day of the installation. All faucets or fixtures must be at the job site when we install.
When using a drop-in sink, we require the sink to be on the job site the day that we install. Drop-in sink cutouts must be done once the stone is in place on the countertops.

Q? What is the procedure for slide-in stoves, drop-in cooktops, and downdraft vents?

A. All slide-in stoves, drop-in cooktops, and downdraft vents will need to be on the job site the day that we install so that the cutouts can be made and the appliances checked for proper fit.

Q? How do I schedule my job and receive an installation date?

A. When we receive a signed contract and a deposit, an installation date will be assigned. At that time, the stone will be reserved and/or ordered.

Q? Once I place my order, how long do I have to wait until my countertops can be installed?

A. While every job is different, the average waiting period is 2-4 weeks. This time is necessary for acquiring material (if necessary), measuring, templating, fabrication and installation.

Q? WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GRANITE AND QUARTZ?

A. Granite is a 100% natural stone that is quarried from the earth, unique in pattern, and requires periodic sealing. Quartz is an engineered stone made of roughly 90-95% crushed natural quartz crystals mixed with resins and pigments, making it non-porous and virtually maintenance-free.

Q? DO MY EXISTING COUNTERTOPS NEED TO BE REMOVED BEFORE THE TEMPLATE IS MADE?

A. No, your existing countertops do not typically need to be removed for the templating process, meaning you won't be left without a kitchen while we fabricate your stone. However, we do ask that you completely clear off your current countertops so our team can get highly precise laser measurements.

Q? WILL MY COUNTERTOPS HAVE VISIBLE SEAMS, AND WHERE WILL THEY BE PLACED?

A. Because natural stone and quartz slabs come in limited sizes, most large or complex layouts will require seams. Our advanced fabrication process ensures seams are tight and color-matched, but they will be slightly visible to the touch. Seam placement is determined by slab size, kitchen layout, and structural safety.

Q? DO I NEED TO SEAL MY COUNTERTOPS, AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD IT BE DONE?

A. If you choose natural stone like granite or marble, it will need to be sealed to protect against staining. We apply a high-quality sealer upon installation. Generally, natural stone should be resealed every 1 to 2 years, depending on use. Quartz countertops are non-porous and never require sealing.

Q? CAN I CUT DIRECTLY ON MY GRANITE OR QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS?

A. While both materials are highly scratch-resistant, we strongly recommend always using a cutting board. Cutting directly on your countertops can dull your kitchen knives and, in some cases with quartz or softer stones, leave metal marks or minor scratches behind.

Q? ARE STONE COUNTERTOPS COMPLETELY HEAT-RESISTANT? CAN I SET HOT PANS ON THEM?

A. Granite can withstand high temperatures, but thermal shock (a sudden temperature change) can theoretically cause cracking. Quartz contains resin binders that can scorch or discolor if exposed to direct, extreme heat. We always recommend using trivets or hot pads for pots and pans straight out of the oven or off the stove.

Q? HOW DO I CLEAN AND MAINTAIN MY STONE COUNTERTOPS DAY-TO-DAY?

A. For daily cleaning, a simple mixture of mild dish soap and warm water works perfectly for both natural stone and quartz. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, vinegar, or abrasive scrubbing pads, as these can strip away natural stone sealers or dull the polished finish of quartz over time.

Q? WHAT ARE the DIFFERENT EDGE PROFILES AVAILABLE, AND DO THEY COST EXTRA?

A. We offer a variety of edge profiles ranging from standard options (like Eased or Bevel) to premium, more intricate edges (like Ogee or Bullnose). Standard edges are typically included in your base price, while premium edges require extra fabrication detail and carry an additional cost per linear foot.

Q? CAN A CHIP OR CRACK IN MY COUNTERTOP BE REPAIRED?

A. Yes, in the rare event that your countertop chips or cracks, it can usually be repaired. Our experienced technicians can fill the damaged area with a color-matched epoxy or resin, which is then cured and polished smooth, making the blemish nearly unnoticeable.

Q? WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DISCONNECTING AND RECONNECTING THE PLUMBING AND APPLIANCES?

A. K&D Countertops handles the precise template, fabrication, and physical installation of your stone countertops, including mounting undermount sinks to the stone. However, we are not licensed plumbers or electricians. You will need to arrange for a professional to disconnect your plumbing/appliances before installation and reconnect them the following day once the adhesives have fully cured.