Stone kitchen worktops, backsplashes and floors are an excellent investment, as they’re beautiful, practical and long lasting – as long as you buy the right one. Here are a few questions we recommend you ask before you buy.
How long do I expect this kitchen to last? Will this design go out of fashion?
Installing granite worktops or other stone kitchen features is often part of a larger remodel. As stone is incredibly durable, it’s worth investing in cabinets and other features that will also go the distance. A stone worktop can last decades, so if you expect to change the cabinets in a few years, you should plan with that in mind.
How many different stones do you stock? What’s the difference between these choices?
Unless you’re in the trade yourself, you’ll be relying on the expertise of the stoneworkers you select. Ask as many questions as you need to until you find a workshop that gives you confidence. You need a shop that has a good range (unless you already know exactly what you want) and staff who can clearly explain the options, to give you the information you need to choose your new stone kitchen.
What options are available for the stone I’ve chosen?
A good stone workshop will be able to provide different finishes as well as sealing a stone, and also explain the differences between the options. As an example, a smooth polish gives a classic look, while rougher surfaces are better for non-slip flooring.
Is this stone fully sealed?
A stone kitchen can expect a certain amount of wear and tear. Sealed stone reduces the risk of damage from spills, stains, scratches and chips. It’s particularly important for more vulnerable stones in busy areas, such as white marble kitchen worktops.
Will you cut, finish and fit the stone yourselves?
Many showrooms are intermediaries and contract out stone work and fitting to other companies. If you’re not using a full-service workshop like ours, it’s important to know who will be fulfilling your order. This is particularly true for fitted products, like marble kitchen counters, as the fitters will have to be in your home, often over a number of days.
Is this stone in stock? When can you do the work?
Each slab of natural stone is unique, which means that for a larger order – such as a stone kitchen with multiple worktops – a matching set of slabs may have to be ordered in. As most marble and granite used in the UK is imported from Italy or beyond, this may take some time. It’s best to know upfront how long your order will take to manufacture.
How do you fit and manufacture your stone?
Stone kitchen worktops need to fit precisely – even a difference of a few millimetres can be disastrous. As a result, it’s best to work with a fully-equipped, professional stone working shop that uses professionally made templates and state-of-the-art stone cutting tools to create the perfect fit.
