Frequently Asked Questions

Stones

What should I consider when buying marble or granite?
Precious stones, marble and granite have blessed humanity with a stunning natural beauty for centuries. On the other hand, these types of natural formations are characterised by volatility, highly appreciated by artists and designers. Customers with a modest knowledge of the nature of the material expect the marble ordered to be identical to the model presented in the catalogue. Although the sample stone should reflect the nature of the product, material from one output may vary slightly in colour or texture. Moreover, even on a single slab of granite colours, we see some differences when comparing the opposite ends of the slab. Most architects and interior designers recognise the advantage of the irregularity of natural stones, an element of nature, which is a pleasant diversion of residential space or public use – designed by man.

What is the difference between marble and granite?
Although both of these stones are mined from the earth, granite and marble (and marble derivatives, such as limestone, onyx, travertine) are significantly different from each other. Granite is created deep in the earth’s crust as a result of crystallisation of minerals at very high temperatures, which gives it great durability and hardness. Marbles (and limestone, travertine, onyx) caused by the deposition of animal skeletons and shells, plant matter and mud on the bottoms of water reservoirs. The fossilisation process takes millions of years. Because marble is the main component of limestone, it is more susceptible to acids contained in vinegar or citrus juices.

Can I use marble or granite for the construction of a kitchen counter?
Typical applications are marble bathroom countertops, fireplaces, jacuzzi and housing, but it is also possible to use it in the kitchen. However, we strongly recommend against this approach because of the susceptibility to scratches and acids found for example in the vinegar, ketchup, etc. Many of the chemicals may also weaken the polished stone. Granite, in turn, is regarded as almost the hardest existing stone. It is resistant to scratches, acids, kitchen tools and heat.

Do I have to buy a slab of stone?
Slabs are always sold intact. Buying stone slabs recalls buying fabric – the producer, as seamstress or tailor, buying raw material for you finished product. The price of a complete product is the cost of transporting material, measurements and models, grinding, polishing, transporting the individual parts to the customer and correct installation. The necessary amount of material is dependent on the project and the amount of damaged stone. Our task is to minimise the amount of the destroyed material and to know how to best use the natural beauty, texture and pattern.

How do I clean marble and other stone?
The old rule of thumb is: never use anything you would not use to wash your hands. Do not use powdered cleansers or blades. Even gentle exfoliating cleansers contain pumice (powdered volcanic rock), which can damage the top or the floor. Do not use a product containing fatty acids (ammonia). Use only preservatives and cleaners for natural stone.

What about the notches on the sink or stove?
With our water jet machining technology, we are able to cut each sink or component surface, designed by computer. Sinks suspended (placed underneath the edges of the masking in the sink) are fully cut out and a hole is further polished. The top is then reversed and the special sealing rings are mounted to facilitate attaching the sink. Indentation boundary reaches 10cm in each corner, part of the surface is cut on-site during the installation to prevent damage during transport.

Granite

Can I cut and chop on my granite countertop?
Yes, but you can destroy the blades. Granite is harder than your knife blades and if you use the countertop as a cutting surface, they blunt very quickly. For slicing or chopping always use wooden or plastic chopping boards.

Is it possible to damage the granite worktop?
Like any hard surface, granite can be damaged by a powerful strike. Due to its crystalline structure, granite can crumble after being hit hard by a sharp object. Granite not covered by impregnation can absorb substances such as oil, which can lead to the formation of spots and discoloration. Hot pots, pans or hot substances, under normal household conditions, will not damage the countertop.

On the surface of my sample of granite are holes, or the same will be on my countertop?
Granite, with a crystalline structure, always has tiny pores between crystals of different minerals. On a large piece, they are invisible – the floor is polished and mirror-like. Granite can also have natural features, which do not come from the imperfections of the structure, but from the enormous heat and pressure which formed the stone ages ago. These features add to the charm of this natural stone. Finally, a product of nature can not look like a product created by man.

How do I clean granite?
Polished granite is a very durable stone, much more durable than marble. In the past, it was used to cover the external facades of buildings, walls and floors in busy places. Granite is resistant to high and low temperatures, it is also 95-98% resistant to stains and discoloration (in addition, we cover it with a silicone impregnation, which guarantees lasting beauty). Polished granite should be cleaned in the same way as polished marble, using a mild, biodegradable, fragrance-free, phosphate-washing-up liquids, powders, flakes, or cleaners. Then rinse the top thoroughly and dry with a chamois or flannel cloth.

Will my granite look exactly like the sample?
The samples which you can see on the computer screen, are digital photos. Colour tones may vary slightly due to possible differences in computer systems, monitors and image compression algorithms. What’s more, granite, a natural stone, is found in many shades, colours, structures and patterns, which is part of its natural beauty.

Does granite stain or discolour?
In principle, it does. Although all types of stone are somewhat porous, pores are very small granite. Most colours will never change when exposed to moisture, some may slightly change over time, eg. if you leave a puddle of water on the counter for 30 minutes, after wiping some colours may be darker. Our granite is impregnated by the manufacturer, although some customers prefer to impose impregnation (available in stores with glazed and stoneworking articles) after installation.

Marble

Is the marble a good material for a worktop?
No. Because marble (like limestone and travertine) contain calcium carbonate, the polished surface is more exposed to substances containing acids (vinegar, mustard, ketchup, juice and citrus fruits). These compounds cause a chemical reaction debilitating shine.

Can marble be used in areas with heavy traffic?
Yes. In ancient times marble was used in all parts of the Greek houses – from furniture to the floor. Greek marbles have proven to be as durable as other, seemingly harder materials while creating a warm and friendly atmosphere and interior.