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Our expertise for stone interior decorating is admired by many interior designers, architectures, homes builders and contractors in the GTA. Our staffs and fabricators are committed to providing high quality workmanship, professionalism and friendly customer service.
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info@asiamarblesinc.com
(905) 695-3530
Hours of operation:
Monday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday: Appointment ONLY
Address: 160 Confederation Parkway
Concord, ON L4K 3L9
Frequently Asked Questions
+ What is Granite composed of?
Granite is composed of feldspar and quartz and is a common mineral that is probably as old as the earth. It is formed when liquid magma slowly cools, resulting in a substance almost as hard and durable as a diamond. The hardness and density are the result of its solidifying under extreme pressure within the earth.
+ What makes up the various colours in Granite?
The various colours of Granite are caused by different metal oxides that contaminate pure forms of quartz and feldspar. Some are variegated in colour, the result of major disturbance such as earthquakes that occurred eons ago. The size of the crystals in Granite also varies. In general, the slower a Granite cools, the larger the crystals. And the faster it cools, the smaller the crystals. Granite of the same name can vary depending on when and where it was quarried.
+ Does Granite stain?
All stone is porous to some extent, but Granite has very little porosity. Most colours will never show any moisture. A few colours may show some moisture if exposed for a period of time. For example, a puddle of water left on the counter for 30 minutes for some colours, may show a dark spot when the water is wiped away. This spot will then dry up and no evidence will show. Darker Granite is denser which makes it more resistant to staining. Lighter Granite is more susceptible to staining due to its porosity.
+ Will seams show and how are they made?
Because Granite is a natural material and is mined from the quarry in blocks usually no more than 10’ long, you might end up with a seam or two depending on the size of your kitchen. Also, because Granite is sold in rectangular pieces, you may want to use seams to reduce your costs, such as in an ‘L’ shaped corner. The visibility of seams will depend on the granularity, colour, and pattern. A small, uniform grain (such as Rosa Beta) will not be as apparent as a larger varied grain (such as Baltic Brown). A dark colour (Emerald Pearl) will be less apparent than a light colour (Giallo Ornamental). A dramatic pattern with swaths of colour (Giallo Veneziano) will show more seams than a uniform pattern (Dakota Mahogany). Most customers have found that the beauty of natural Granite outweighs the concern of seams. Seams are done where the granite joins with a smooth, straight cut; a small bead of epoxy is placed along the seam to seal it.
+ Does it take a long time to install a granite kitchen countertop and what is the process?
The installation does not take very long. It normally takes 2 to 5 hours, depending on the size of the job. This usually depends on the number of joint(s) the particular countertop or vanity top might have. If there are no joints, it will take no longer than 1 to 3 hours. There are a number of steps before a granite countertop can be installed. This all depends on your existing cabinetry; if it is a new kitchen with new cabinetry then there is little work to be done. But, if it is an existing Kitchen with existing countertops and plumbing, then a little more work is required to be done before the installation of the new countertop can take place.
+ What areas do you service?
We service the whole province of Ontario. Any out-of-town jobs would consist of an extra charge.
+ Where do you recommend using marble?
Marble is recommended for areas like washrooms; vanity tops and tub deck, and fireplace surrounds. (It is not recommended for kitchen countertops due it its porosity)
+ Is there any warranty on granite or marble (on installation?)
Yes, service calls are free. We repair chips, cracks and scratches occurring due to normal use. Granite and marble tops cannot break with everyday use once it is installed.
+ Can I put granite on top of an existing counter?
No.
+ Will granite get moldy if it is wet all the time?
No.
+ Can you scratch Granite?
Granite is one of the hardest natural stones available. It cannot be scratched in ordinary use; however, we still recommend the use of a cutting board for such purposes.
+ How are sinks done?
Sinks are either top mount or under mount. Sinks come in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, ceramic and as well as some synthetics. A cut-out needs to be made in the granite to accommodate the sink. The sink will have directions and a template for the cut-out.
+ Are all Granite kitchen counters a high gloss finish?
No, there are several different finishes you can order; the highly polished finish is just the most popular. There is a process called honing that gives the stone a more matte finish yet, retains its smooth feel. Other finishes included leathered and brushed.
+ Do I need to re-enforce my cabinets? (plywood sub-tops)
No. You sometimes do see plywood sub-top, and the only reason why it is there is to raise the granite countertop(s) so it does not overhang your cabinet drawer doors. This is only the case if your doors are installed flushed (same level) with the cabinet box, otherwise, you will not need reinforcement. You can also have plywood sub-top simply for re-enforcement.
+ What are the different prices for granite and are all granite the same?
All granite and marble are natural stones; the difference in prices is because of its availability and demand. Key factors have to do with it colour and its overall design/pattern.
+ Where do you get your granite and marble from?
We buy our granite/marble directly from in town suppliers. These natural stones are imports from overseas: Brazil, Italy, Africa, India, and a few from Canada.
+ Are all marble the same?
In terms of durability and softness, no. They are not all the same, some are stronger than others.
+ How much can I expect to pay for kitchen/bathroom?
Kitchen countertops on average costs around $1800.00 per kitchen, vanity top cost around $500 and up.