Frequently Asked Questions Granite and Quartz
Here at GG we know that you will have lots of questions about your new granite or quartz worktop. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions but if there is anything else you need to know then go to our contact page for how to get in touch.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from cooling magma. Granite is quarried throughout the world with colours and patterns that indicate the region and the geological conditions that created it. Each granite slab is unique with its own individual patternation.
Quartz is a hard crystalline mineral. To create a quartz worktop natural quartz particles are combined with high-quality polymer resins and binders through a high-tech compression and heating process. The result is a dimensionally consistent surface that is as strong and durable as granite.
Marble is a hard crystalline form of limestone, typically with mottled colour. It is not suitable for use as a kitchen worktop.
It is not hard enough to withstand heavy use and is easily damaged by cleaning sprays.
Granite and quartz worktops are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. They are exceptionally durable and hard-wearing, hygienic and easy to maintain.
Quartz is a non-porous material and is virtually impossible to scratch or stain.
At GG we provide a wide choice of granite and quartz to suit the style of any kitchen, contemporary or traditional. Browse through our samples pages for our standard and most popular colours and patterns.
We will also do our absolute best to source any alternative product on request.
At GG we offer a highly polished, honed or riverwash finish to our granite worktops.
The highly polished finish leaves a gloss sheen; the honed option leaves a smooth surface without a sheen; and riverwash provides a textured surface creating an antiqued look.
Not all stones are available with all three different finishes and these finishes only apply to natural granite.
If you would like to see a sample of our granite or quartz please get in touch and we will be happy to drop a selection of samples directly to your door.
GG operate mainly in the Cheshire and Greater Manchester area although we supply and fit all across the UK. Installations outside the Stockport and Greater Manchester area may incur an extra cost for travel and time.
GG can deliver on a supply-only basis to both trade and individual customers.
GG can do a fit-only service to both trade and individual customers.
Before your new worktop can be cut and fitted, a site/template survey has to be carried out. This involves us visiting you on site and taking accurate measurements of the kitchen units, appliances and any other fixtures and fittings like taps and pop-up sockets.
The units will need to be installed and the appliances and sink available on site, although plumbing isn’t necessary. We will confirm whether your kitchen units are level and strong enough to carry the weight of the new worktop.
We will also check access to ensure that we can get the necessary size of stone in situ, for example if you live in an apartment.
A template is an exact replica of the required worktop using a framework made from 100mm strips of wood incorporating accurate measurements for cut-outs (sinks, hobs, taps & pop-up sockets) plus drainer grooves and the size of overhang required. This is then used to manufacture the worktop to ensure an accurate and precise installation, although any minor adjustments can be carried out later on installation.
A cut-out is literally that, a section cut out of the worktop to accommodate all shapes and sizes of sink, inset hob, taps, pop-up sockets and any other fittings. If the cutouts are visible the edges will be polished.
Drainer grooves are fluted grooves etched into the stone surface to ensure that water flows naturally into the sink. They create a streamlined look and are extremely practical, keeping your work surface dry and clean.
An upstand is a separate short section of stone that sits against the wall to bridge the gap between the worktop and the wall. They provide protection for your walls, keeping them free from marks and can add a stylish finish to your work surface.
A splashback is a large section of stone that is fitted to the wall behind your hob. They keep your cooking area free from splashes and can add a stylish finish to your kitchen.
Each corner will need to have a consistent shape. These can be angular or rounded to suit the aesthetics of your kitchen units and can create a stylish feature.
Profiles are the edges of the worktop. There are a number of profiles available from a standard chamfer to a rounded edge. A complex profile may add additional cost as it will often require extra polishing.
Yes, we offer a granite and quartz worktop bespoke service.
Yes, but you will need to remove the existing worktop before we arrive and arrange for disconnection and reconnection of services. Please also note that the existing worktop may be thicker than the granite or quartz which measures 30mm as a standard size.
You can order your worktop as soon as your base kitchen units are installed and your appliances and sink are on site. It is preferable not to fit the wall units at this stage although where you are replacing an existing worktop this is not possible. Any wall units that come down to the worktop must not be fitted.
No, any tiles may obstruct the installation.
No, your plumber/electrician/gas installer will need to do this.
Please get in touch via mobile and we can chat through your requirements although we may need to see a plan. Alternatively get in touch using our enquiry form, attaching a plan with accurate dimensions and any photographs. Please also indicate your choice of stone, style of sink (undermount, belfast or inset sitting on top of the stone). Further indicate whether you would like drainer grooves, a tap cut-out (if so, the style of tap), a hob cut-out, upstands and/or a splashback. We will then work out an estimated cost and get back to you.
Cost will depend on your choice of stone, measurements and specifications. There is additional cost for cut-outs, upstands and splashbacks.
By completely cutting out the cost of commercial retail premises and by eliminating the middleman when sourcing our premium grade granite and quartz, we can pass on significant savings directly to you.
We take just a 30% deposit on template and payment of the final balance on the day of installation.
If you are happy with our quote and wish to place an order please contact us to book a site/template survey.
We aim to have your worktop installed in your home within 7 days after templating and we will provide you with an installation date within 24-48 hours of templating.
The installation of your worktop and all finishing touches will usually take between 3-6 hours.
Yes, as we may need to discuss detail of where joints will go. Depending on the length of the worktop or the type of cut-outs, there may be a need to use two or more sections of stone.
The joint sizes are very slight, up to a maximum of 3mm. We always colour match the jointing compound to your worktop so as to minimise visibility.
Granite and quartz are exceptionally durable but there are a few things that can lead to stains or scratches. Substances like red wine or acidic citrus fruits can stain or bleach the surface after prolonged contact, hot pans can leave marks and diamond rings can leave etches. It is advisable to wipe up any spillages immediately and always use a chopping board and pan stand. We also recommend that you seal your granite every 12 months. We can provide care kits on request at additional cost.
To clean your stone worktop use a damp cloth or sponge with warm soapy water and then dry it off with a clean cloth or chamois leather. Do not use abrasive materials such as scouring or wire pads.
Your worktop will be sealed before we leave and a care sheet provided. We will be happy to give you any further clarification on how to clean and protect your worktop and can provide care kits on request at additional cost.
At GG we go out of our way to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied. We provide premium grade granite and quartz at discounted prices. We also provide a high standard of service with a fast reliable turnaround time. We take real pride in the quality of our workmanship delivering beautiful bespoke worktops and a flawless finish every time. When it comes to supplying and fitting only the finest grade granite and quartz at a price that won’t blow your budget, GG are the letters you can trust.
