Q & A:

Q: What are the benefits of natural stone?
A: Natural stone increases the beauty and value of your home. Stones have color, depth, and quality that cannot be duplicated by any manmade material. Natural stone is made of minerals that have crystallized in the earth’s crust throughout the ages. Once a sheet of stone is cut and finished, the unique colors and patterns of these minerals take on a three-dimensional brilliance.

Q: Why us?
A: Distinctive Marble and Granite imports, fabricates and installs natural stone. We specialize in granite kitchen countertops as well as marble bathroom vanities and fireplace surrounds. ~ Our installers take great pride in the quality of their work and make every effort to exceed customer expectations. We encourage you to visit our facilities to see first hand the caliber of our organization. After a brief visit here, you will see the full value of working with us and will develop a new appreciation for the beauty of natural stone.

Q: How do I get an estimate for my project?
A: Call us and make an appointment for a free consultation. Find out how simple it is to make you home unique and beautiful.

Q: What type of stone do I use?
A: For kitchen counter tops we recommend using granite. Marble is softer and is more susceptible to staining, scratching &
etching. Marble is fine to use on vanities & fireplace surrounds. Granite is a lifetime producer and adds beauty and value to your home.

Q: What thickness do I use?
A: Most stone is available in tiles (3/8"), 2cm (3/4") and 3cm (1 1/4") slabs. Kitchen countertops are usually 3cm due to its
structural integrity. 2 cm material laminated to 1 1/2" can also be used but must be backed by 3/4" plywood. Vanities and fireplace surrounds are usually 2 cm but can be done in 3cm depending on availability of material.

Q: What about backsplash?
A: Most backsplash is used out of the same material as the countertop and is 4" tall. The edge treatment on the 4" splash is
typically standard pencil polish. Another option is to use 2cm or 3cm matching material and go full height. When this is done we
will cut holes for receptacles boxes so all electrical work must be done at time of templating. Some customers use some other
type of product such as ceramic tiles, or tumbled marble.

Q: What type of sink will we use?
A: When choosing a sink you need to make sure it will fit in the cabinet and allow ample room for your faucet and other   accessories.

Q: What are "Under Mounts"?
A: Under Mounts are mounted on the underside of the countertop and have a finished opening. The sink is secured to the granite
using anchors and clips then silicone is placed around the rim to seal it. We will attach your sink to the granite at the time of
installation, but we will not do any plumbing.

Q: What type of range will we use?
A: Types to select from include cook tops, slide-ins and free standing. Some cook tops have a pop up vent and you need to make sure that the cook top and the vent fit in your cabinet. Whatever type you choose it must be on the job site at time of templating so we can make the necessary measurements.

Q: What about overhang?
A: You can safely overhang from a cabinet 6" without additional support. If your overhang exceeds 6" you will need to provide the necessary supports. If the overhang is extended from the cap wall and is more than 6" - 10" supports are needed. Please be reminded, we do not provide or install supports. Supports must be in place before we can install your countertops. Any additional trips out to a site due to supports not being in place will result in an additional fee.

Q: Do my tops need to be sealed?
A: We will seal the tops during installation. This will help to prevent stains. We recommend that you repeat the procedure every year. Sealer can be purchased from home goods stores.

Q: What if I get a stain?
A: Although most sealed stones are extremely stain resistant, stains can occur when oil and dyes remain on the surface for an extended period of time. So, if a spill does occur, be sure to blot the spill with a paper towel immediately, and then flush the area with plain water and mild soap and rinse several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth. Repeat as necessary. If the stain remains, there are several household products that can easily remove certain stains.

Q: How do I clean my top?
A: Clean your tops with a mild cleaner or soap. Drying your tops after cleaning them will prevent them from looking dull. Do not use harsh chemicals.

Q: What does Distinctive Marble & Granite need?
A: A layout with stone selection, nosing, cut outs and splash height indicated.

Once price is agreed upon, sign and return contract with 50% deposit; we will order in the material and schedule you for template and installation.

At the time of template, all sinks, faucets and appliances must be on site. Sinks and faucets need to be delivered to our office if not available at time of template. Having these items allows us to make all the necessary cut outs and holes for a proper job.
The fabrication and installation of your job will be delayed if accessories are not here.

At the time of template a qualified person must be at the job site to go over all the details. If a remodel, existing tops and backsplash must be removed to make accurate templates. We do not provide this service.

After templates are made we will install in approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Final payment is required at this time. We do not do any carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, etc.

If you have any additional questions or need more information please call our office at: (614) 760-0003

214 North Liberty St. • Powell, Ohio 43065
614/760-0003 • 614/760-0004 fax

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