| How do I remove stubborn stains? |
| A damp cloth with soapy warm water will remove most stains. If necessary, non abrasive house cleaners can be used on a damp cloth. Adhered material such as nail polish, dried paint, food or gum can be scraped away carefully with a plastic knife, followed by a damp cloth to remove any remaining marks. |
| Can re-constituted stone endure heat? |
| Temperatures lower than 150°C will not affect your countertop. However, all stone material can be damaged by rapid temperature change, also known as thermal shock. We suggest a breadboard to be placed underneath hot pots and pans to protect your investment. |
| How durable is re-constituted stone? |
| It is resistant to cracks, chips, stains and scratches. However, like any material extreme pressure and force may cause damage to your re-constituted stone surface. |
| Are re-constituted countertops seamless? |
| Seams are required for applications longer than 3 metres. Although they are generally visible, they are usually less noticeable than joins in natural stone counter tops. |
| Is re-constituted stone resistant to staining? |
| Due to the low moisture absorption and high gloss finish, the stone is extremely stain resistant and eliminates the need for sealing. The non-porous surface dramatically reduces the risk of food bacterial growth from absorbing into the countertop. |
| Is it necessary to seal the stone? |
| Mirror Stone seal our natural stone tops during the manufacturing process. Over time, the highly used areas are likely to become absorbent and more likely to soak in stains. A penetrating sealer is important to use in order to repel stains from the stone surface. The porosity and density of stone varies as does the frequency a sealer would need to be re-applied. We recommend wiping all spills from the stone top immediately to prevent eventual staining. |
| Does granite chip? |
| Only when in extreme contact with a hard knock or tool will chips occur. Granite is one of the strongest stones Earth has created, and in those rare cases where the granite is chipped; we have technology available to repair the chip. |
| Can a hot pot be placed on a granite countertop? |
| Granite is created beneath the Earth’s crust by extreme pressure and heat combined. A frying pan or cook top’s heat should have no effect to the countertop. Mirror Stone recommends the use of a board to prevent any possible damage. (Please ask our sales team about having your sink cut-out made into a bread board.) |
| Is it possible to cut directly on a granite top? |
| Although cutting on the stone surface would have no damaging effect to the stone, we advise a board to be used to prevent your knife blades from becoming blunt. |
| What is the difference between granite and marble? |
| Although both are formed under the earth's surface, the mineral compositions are different causing them to react to chemicals differently. The main difference is granite’s high density created deep in the Earth’s core, compared to marble forming from sediments beneath the sea bed. Granite is suitable for high traffic areas such as your kitchen, while marble is better suited to bathrooms or living area furniture. |
| Where can marble be used? |
| Marble can be used in numerous low damage risk environments such as shelves, fireplace surrounds and tabletops. Vanities, shower paneling, spa surrounds and general bath areas are additional possible projects. Mirror Stone does not recommend the use of marble in kitchens as a high level of care and prevention is essential. |
| How long will I be without bench tops? |
| Once your cabinets have been installed we are able to measure and custom make your counter tops. Allow approximately 5 working days for a 20mm thick bench top to be installed, contact your sales representative to confirm. |