Get to know the stones and
materials we work with
Understand the importance of choosing
the right stone for your project
Quartz
Quartz is one of the most popular materials for countertops due to its durability and wide range of colors. However, there are key characteristics to consider before purchasing.
Composition and Variations
Most quartz products consist of 93% natural quartz, 3.5% resin, and 3.5% pigments, though this may vary by manufacturer. Some options include glass or concrete, which can make them porous.
Features and Care
- Resistant, not invincible: Quartz can stain, scratch, chip, crack, or discolor if not used properly.
- Natural variations: QuarSmall spots, color differences, and imperfections are normal characteristics.
- Inspection recommended: Always check slabs before installation.
- Finishing and Maintenance: Altering the finish voids the manufacturer’s warranty. A minimum 1/8” radius on edges is recommended to prevent chipping.
- Proper use: Avoid direct exposure to high heat (hot pans, air fryers, fireplaces). Use cutting boards and supports for heavy objects.
- Indoor applications: Quartz is not recommended for outdoor use unless specified by the manufacturer.
Natural Stone
Natural stones vary in both appearance and structure, with some being more porous than others. The finish of a stone affects its aesthetics and durability, such as the tendency of polished marble to show etching more easily than honed marble.
Stones are mined in blocks, cut into slabs, and sorted into lots for consistency in color and pattern. FCMG takes slab matching seriously to ensure a cohesive project outcome, though natural stones may still vary in shade.
Granite is a durable stone resistant to scratching, heat, and staining but may have inconsistencies in texture due to varying minerals. Quartzite is dense with fissures but is only used if these don’t compromise the stone’s structure.
Dolomite, a type of marble, is strong but more prone to etching than quartzite. Marble and calcite are softer, more porous, and prone to scratching, staining, and etching, making them better suited for bathrooms or fireplaces. Soapstone, while strong and stain-resistant, requires regular maintenance and can scratch easily, though it can be repaired with sandpaper.
- Porosity and Finish: All natural stones are porous, with some more so than others. The finish (polished, honed, etc.) impacts both aesthetics and structural integrity.
- Variety and Uniqueness: Since they are natural materials, stones vary in color and patterns, making each piece unique.
- Extraction and Cutting: Stones are extracted in blocks, cut into slabs, and sorted into lots, which are identified by color, vein patterns, and other characteristics.
- Lots and Bundles: Lots ensure uniformity in characteristics, and bundles are groups of slabs with similar traits for a cohesive project.
Porcelain & Sintered Stone
Porcelain and sintered stone materials are strong but require careful handling to avoid damage. FCMG educates clients on the materials, but once the installation is complete, the responsibility for maintaining the integrity of the material falls on the client.
The materials can crack due to internal pressure during fabrication, and FCMG is not liable for damage caused by external factors. The installation must be done on level cabinets to ensure proper support, as uneven support can cause cracks.
Post-installation, the material can be damaged through misuse, including heavy impact, extreme heat, or neglecting to maintain level support.
- Material: Although porcelain and sintered stones are strong, they must be treated carefully to avoid damage. FCMG educates clients, but responsibility for the material after installation lies with the client.
- Fabrication: Specialized tools and techniques are required to cut porcelain and sintered stones, but cracks may still occur due to internal pressure. FCMG cannot be held responsible for cracks during fabrication, transportation, or installation. Clients must ensure availability of extra material in case of damage during the process.
- Installation: Porcelain and sintered stones must be installed on level cabinets to prevent cracking. The installation will be approved by FCMG techs to ensure proper conditions.
- Post-Installation: Misuse, such as placing heavy objects, standing on the surface, or exposing the material to extreme heat or temperature fluctuations, can result in cracks and other damage. Uneven support from settling structures can also cause cracks.
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