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Imperial Stone Collection Is Your Best Choice.
Serving Chicago and the Suburbs     |     847-640-8817
STONE QUESTIONS
Serving Chicago and the Suburbs     |     847-640-8817
  Serving Chicago and the Suburbs
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Stone FAQs

What Should I Consider When Selecting Granite?

Since granite is natural, it is hard and durable. It is also resistant to heat and scratches and to top it all: it comes with easy maintenance. When it comes to the designs aspect, granite is known for its versatility. It is available in a variety of structural compositions and colors. 

On our site, we offer over 1000 colors but with different designs. Each piece of granite come with unique features, that’s why it is hard to find two pieces that are exactly the same. Its natural characteristics have made it a top choice for many homes because it comes with a natural beauty that has captured the eye of many people throughout the years. Granite also comes without predictability making it a great thing for sophisticated designers and architects to work with.
   
Many consumers who do not know more about this product usually expect to get stones that are similar to the sample they have seen. It is important to note that although the samples are a representation of what is available, the material extracted at times comes with a wide range of colors and veining aspects. The same product would also feature a range of colors across its surface- a feature that many architects and designers consider as an advantage, as the irregularities of the stone produce a natural element that could not be designed by humans. Its sophisticated design is great for both commercial and residential uses.

Is Marble Different From Granite?

They may both be extracted from earth but granite and marble (including all types of marble such as limestone, travertine, and onyx) are different from one another. Granite is generated inside the mantle of the earth at very high temperature. It is a heat-resistant hard stone made as a result of mineral crystallization. Marble, on the other hand, is a result of solidification of materials such as sediments, plant matter, silt, shells, and animal skeletons. The major component in marble is calcium and it is therefore prone to damage from acidic products such as beverages containing citrus and vinegar.
Granite for kitchen countertop

Between Marble and Granite, Which Is Better for My Kitchen Countertop?

Marble can not only be used for bathroom vanity tops, fireplaces, and Jacuzzi tops, but it can also be used for kitchen counters. However, most designers do not recommend it because it is prone to scratches and it can be damaged by acidic products like ketchup and vinegars. The other reason we do not recommend it is because of the loss of the high-gloss appearance as a result of etching of the surface by many chemicals. 

Granite, on the other hand, is highly recommended as a kitchen countertop because it is considered as the second stone in the hardest stones list. The surface of granite is not prone to damage from acids and household tools such as knives and pots. Since it is heat resistant it is not affected by the kitchen heat.
Kitchen countertop

Should I Seal Stone?

Many mineral surfaces absorb different types of liquid because they are porous and this causes discoloration and staining. Most of the commercial grade products on the market are designed to create the original luster of the stone, though it is advisable for the users to carry out simple precautionary steps as well as maintenance processes to help them maintain the surface. 

Marble and granite tops are sealed after they have been installed, to cover all the pores to prevent the entry of substances such as cosmetics, cleaners, beverages, food, and oil. The durability of the sealer depends on quite a number of things such as the frequency of the use. It is therefore recommended that the users should seal the granite every 1 to 2 years and marble every 6 months.
Marble top for vanity

How Should I Best Clean Marble and Other Natural Stones?

The most important rule when it comes to natural stones is - never use anything on them that you would not use on your hands. It is advisable to keep away from the abrasive pads and powdered cleansers when cleaning the natural stone. 

The soft scrub products contain pumice and this can damage the stone floors and countertops. You should also keep away from acidic products such as those containing ammonia. To ensure the surfaces last longer, you should always use the cleaning products and sealers that are specifically made for natural stones. 
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