Carleton Granite - Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the difference between granite and Cambria Quartz? Which is better?
Granite is “quarried”, which means it is cut out of the ground and is truly natural while Cambria Quartz is “engineered”, meaning it is a combination of crushed quartz crystals and a bonding resin.
Granite can withstand the extreme and sustained heat of any kitchen scenario, i.e. griddles, crock-pots, and hot dishes out of the oven or off the stove. Cambria quartz is also heat resistant but cannot withstand the sustained heat of griddles and crock-pots.
As to which is better, it really depends on what you want in a kitchen counter. You may want the unmatched, natural beauty and selection of granite or the worry free, maintenance free aspect of Cambria Quartz. You can cut on both and they both will add value and usability to your kitchen like no other product on the market

Question: Are 3cm (1 ¼”) stone counters better than 2cm (¾”) stone counters? What is the real difference?
3cm (1 ¼”) stone counters are thicker than their 2cm (¾”) counterparts and in that respect are stronger, but not necessarily better. In a kitchen counter application, when installed correctly, either thickness is more than adequate as far as strength is concerned. A common concern and deciding factor is the backsplash thickness. Many people consider a 3cm backsplash too thick and disproportionate to the counters. Often, the real deciding factor comes down to material availability. Many granites come in both thicknesses

Question: Can I select my slabs?
Yes, in-fact we strongly encourage you to view and select your slabs.
Finding the perfect slab is an emotional experience and you should have opportunity and the joy of actually selecting slabs for your kitchen. They will become conversation pieces for years to come.
Samples do not always represent the actual slab and we want you to know exactly what is going to be installed in your kitchen.

Question: What is our “cost per square foot”?
Cost per square foot can be a deceiving measurement for the cost of a granite counter top. With innumerable color selections, edge selections, sink options, and your specific layout, the cost can vary wildly. But if you really need an idea of what it costs, an average kitchen will run $1600-$3500 for all labor and materials.
As a wise man once said, “The price is not the full cost” meaning, a lower price may not be worth the frustration of poor quality and a lack of communication and the inconvenience of a long turn-around time.