Granite is an igneous rock that forms by the slow cooling of magma deep in the Earth's crust and is composed of quartz and feldspar. Granite is available in a variety of colors, shades and patterns. Because of its stain and heat resistance, granite is an ideal material for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has miniscule pits. These are voids between the various mineral crystals. Granite will often have natural fissures as well. These are not cracks and are an inherent quality of granite. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the structural integrity of the material.

Purchase stove / cook-top, sink(s), and faucet(s). It is important to make sure the fixtures that are being purchased will fit the cabinet box in which they will be placed. It is a good idea to have inside cabinet dimensions handy when shopping for these items. If you purchase an undermount sink, please make sure that the sink remains in its box along with the corresponding manufacturer’s template. If new cabinets are being installed, they must be set in place (screwed to the wall) and completely level. If applicable, appliance garages should be removed prior to template. Please have your countertops cleared off to ensure good, accurate measurements.

The French Quarry, Inc. is not licensed to do any plumbing or electrical work. The French Quarry, Inc. does not disconnect gas appliances, reverse osmosis systems or hard-wired cook-tops. All appliances will be fitted at the end of install to ensure proper cut-outs. In the case of undermount sinks, the sink will be mounted and holes will be drilled for faucets and fixtures present at the time of install. The French Quarry, Inc. does not reconnect any plumbing, gas, or electric appliances.

A typical kitchen with a tear out will take one day. Factors which may increase installation time include full height backsplash, tile tear out and/or intricate details. Some fine tuning will be done on job site. Topmount sink and drop-in cook-top cutouts are done with pieces set in place to avoid breakage in transport. This procedure will create a minimal amount of dust. It is very important that the purchaser or a representative be present at time of installation so that decisions can be made on faucet placement and the job can be reviewed at time of completion.

The location of countertop and/or backsplash joints is dependant on various factors including slab size, material type, access into job site, and job lay-out. During the layout process in the shop, consideration is given to grain direction and pattern flow. Seams are very discreet, but are noticeable by touch and sight, yet are a natural characteristic of granite countertops.

We strongly recommend using support brackets for any granite overhang that exceeds 10". The length of the brackets should be roughly 3" less than the total overhang width and should be placed approximately every 3 or 4 feet. The French Quarry, Inc. will provide and install inconspicuous steel supports for an additional cost if so desired.

Granite and marble are roughly 12 pounds per square foot. Well-constructed and properly set cabinets will support granite countertops.

For day-to-day cleaning, use mild dish soap diluted in warm water is recommended. Dry with a clean dishtowel.

The French Quarry uses the highest quality impregnating sealers. All granite countertops are sealed directly after installation. Under normal use, countertops should not need to be resealed.