At WCWDAC, we are passionate about helping our customers turn their houses into homes. Our story began 15 years ago when our founder, Wesley, started a small business repairing natural stone countertops out of his garage. Today, we have grown into a leading home improvement contractor, serving customers across the state looking to upgrade their homes with granite ,quartz or any natural stone countertops. Our expertise in design consultancy for granite countertops and all uses of natural stone has set us apart from our competitors.
At WCW DESIGN AND CONSULTING, we believe in putting our customers first. We are committed to providing exceptional service, high-quality products, and competitive prices. We also believe in giving back to our community and teaching consumers how to keep their stone looking extravagant.We will service your countertops so that they keep the showroom finish. Here are the pros and cons between Granite and Quartz Countertops..
#### Pros
1. **Natural Beauty:** Each granite slab is unique with natural patterns and colors, offering a one-of-a-kind appearance.
2. **Durability:** Granite is extremely hard and resistant to scratches, making it ideal for kitchen countertops.
3. **Heat Resistance:** Granite can withstand high temperatures, so hot pots and pans can be placed directly on the surface without damage.
4. **Value Addition:** Granite countertops can increase the resale value of a home due to their high-end appeal.
5. **Stain Resistance:** When properly sealed, granite is resistant to stains and bacteria.
#### Cons
1. **Cost:** Granite can be expensive, especially high-quality or exotic slabs.
2. **Maintenance:** Requires periodic sealing (typically once a year) to maintain its stain resistance.
3. **Porosity:** Granite is naturally porous, and if not properly sealed, it can absorb liquids and harbor bacteria.
4. **Weight:** Granite is very heavy, which may require additional structural support for cabinets and counters.
5. **Limited Color Options:** While granite offers many natural patterns and colors, the options are more limited compared to engineered materials like quartz.
### Quartz Countertops
#### Pros
1. **Consistency:** Quartz countertops are engineered, providing more uniform patterns and colors, which can be beneficial for large or complex countertop designs.
2. **Durability:** Quartz is one of the hardest materials and is highly resistant to scratches and dents.
3. **Non-Porosity:** Quartz is non-porous, meaning it does not require sealing and is highly resistant to stains and bacteria.
4. **Low Maintenance:** Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only mild soap and water for regular cleaning.
5. **Variety:** Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including options that mimic the look of natural stone.
#### Cons
1. **Cost:** Quartz can also be expensive, comparable to or sometimes exceeding the cost of granite.
2. **Heat Sensitivity:** Quartz can be damaged by high heat, so hot pots and pans should not be placed directly on the surface.
3. **Less Natural Appearance:** Some people prefer the unique, natural look of granite over the more uniform appearance of quartz.
4. **Visible Seams:** In large installations, seams in quartz countertops can be more noticeable than in granite.
5. **Environmental Concerns:** Quartz countertops have a higher environmental impact due to the energy-intensive manufacturing process and the use of synthetic resins.
At WCW DESIGN AND CONSULTING , we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and services. We carefully select our products from top manufacturers and stand behind everything we sell with a satisfaction guarantee. Heres a detailed guide for countertop installation
###1. **Initial Planning and Consultation**
- **Client Consultation:** Discuss the client's preferences, budget, and project timeline.
- **Site Assessment:** Measure the area where the countertop will be installed. Assess structural support and access points for moving the stone.
- **Material Selection:** Help the client choose the type and color of natural stone (granite, marble, quartzite, etc.). Discuss finish options (polished, honed, leathered).
### 2. **Template Creation**
- **Template Making:** Create a template of the countertop area using materials like plywood or cardboard. This template should include cutouts for sinks, faucets, and any appliances.
- **Verification:** Double-check measurements and template accuracy with the client and the site.
### 3. **Material Procurement**
- **Stone Selection:** Visit the stone supplier to select the specific slabs. Verify color, veining, and any unique features.
- **Inspection:** Inspect slabs for defects or imperfections.
### 4. **Fabrication**
- **Cutting:** Use the template to cut the stone slabs to the exact dimensions. Include cutouts for sinks, faucets, and other fixtures.
- **Edge Profiling:** Shape and polish the edges of the countertop according to client preferences.
- **Polishing:** Polish the surface of the stone to the desired finish.
### 5. **Preparation for Installation**
- **Remove Existing Countertops:** Carefully remove any existing countertops, taking care not to damage cabinets or walls.
- **Check Cabinets:** Ensure cabinets are level and structurally sound to support the new stone countertop.
- **Dry Fit:** Place the fabricated stone on the cabinets to ensure a perfect fit.
### 6. **Installation**
- **Apply Adhesive:** Apply a high-quality adhesive (typically silicone) to the tops of the cabinets to secure the countertop.
- **Set the Countertop:** Carefully place the stone countertop on the adhesive, ensuring it is properly aligned.
- **Seams:** Join multiple pieces of stone, if necessary, using epoxy that matches the stone's color. Smooth out the seams to make them as invisible as possible.
- **Leveling:** Check and adjust the countertop to ensure it is level.
### 7. **Cutouts and Fixtures Installation**
- **Install Sinks and Fixtures:** Install under-mount or drop-in sinks and secure them with appropriate brackets and adhesives. Install faucets and any other fixtures.
- **Seal Edges:** Apply a sealant around the sink cutouts to prevent water damage.
### 8. **Final Touches**
- **Sealing:** Apply a penetrating sealer to the stone to protect it from stains and damage.
- **Cleaning:** Thoroughly clean the countertop to remove any debris, adhesive residue, or fingerprints.
### 9. **Inspection and Quality Check**
- **Client Walkthrough:** Walk through the completed installation with the client to ensure satisfaction with the final product.
- **Final Inspection:** Conduct a final inspection to ensure everything is installed correctly and that the site is clean.
### 10. **Post-Installation Care**
- **Care Instructions:** Provide the client with care and maintenance instructions for their specific type of natural stone.
- **Warranty Information:** Provide details on any warranties for the installation and the stone itself.
This blueprint ensures a smooth and professional installation process, resulting in a beautiful and durable natural stone countertop.