Frequently Asked Questions
Stone Countertops
How much do stone countertops cost?
Stone countertops typically range from $60-$150 per square foot installed, depending on material selection. Granite and quartz average $60-$100, while marble and quartzite range from $70-$150. Exotic materials and complex edge profiles increase costs. We provide detailed quotes after reviewing your project specifications.
What's the timeline from selection to installation?
The complete process takes 2-3 weeks. After template creation (Day 1), fabrication requires 7-10 business days. Installation typically takes 2-6 hours depending on project complexity. We coordinate all phases to minimize kitchen disruption.
How often do granite countertops need resealing?
Most granite requires resealing every 1-3 years, while some dense granites never need sealing. Perform the water drop test annually: if water beads up, your seal is good. If it absorbs within 15 minutes, schedule resealing. We offer maintenance packages to keep your investment protected.
What's the difference between quartz and granite?
Granite is natural stone requiring periodic sealing but offering unique patterns and heat resistance. Quartz is engineered stone (90% natural quartz, 10% resin) that never needs sealing and offers consistent patterns. Both are durable choices with different maintenance requirements.
Do you handle sink cutouts and installation?
Yes, we provide complete installation including sink cutouts, faucet holes, and cooktop cutouts. Our installers coordinate plumbing disconnection/reconnection and ensure perfect fit. Template accuracy prevents installation day surprises.
Tile Installation Services
How much does tile installation cost?
Tile installation ranges from $10-$50 per square foot depending on tile size, pattern complexity, and substrate condition. Basic floor installations average $10-$15, while intricate shower installations with waterproofing can reach $40-$50. We provide itemized quotes after site evaluation.
Can you install tile over existing flooring?
Installing over existing tile is sometimes possible if the surface is stable and level. However, removing old flooring ensures proper height transitions and reveals subfloor issues. We evaluate each situation and recommend the best approach for long-lasting results.
How long does bathroom tile installation take?
A standard bathroom (5’x8′) takes 3-5 days including waterproofing, tile installation, and grouting. Larger or more complex bathrooms may take 5-7 days. Bathrooms remain usable evenings until plumbing fixture installation. We provide detailed schedules upfront.
What waterproofing system do you use for showers?
We install complete waterproofing membrane systems (typically Schluter or similar) behind all wet area tiles. This includes waterproof membranes, proper slope creation, and sealed corners. Waterproofing prevents costly water damage and is code-required for shower installations.
Maintenance Services
How often should I reseal my stone countertops?
Resealing frequency depends on stone type: granite every 1-3 years, marble every 6-12 months, quartzite every 1-2 years. Dense stones like some granites and all quartz never need sealing. We perform water drop tests during maintenance visits to determine exact needs.
When should shower grout and caulk be replaced?
Grout should be professionally cleaned annually and replaced every 10-15 years or when cracking occurs. Caulk requires replacement every 3-5 years in wet areas to prevent water damage. We offer maintenance packages covering both services.
What's included in your maintenance services?
Our maintenance services include stone resealing, grout cleaning and repair, caulk replacement, and minor repairs. For stone countertops: cleaning, resealing, and chip repair. For tile: deep grout cleaning, grout touch-ups, and caulk replacement. Annual maintenance prevents costly repairs.
Do you offer maintenance contracts?
Yes, we offer annual maintenance contracts providing scheduled service visits, priority scheduling, and 15% service discounts. Contracts include annual inspections identifying issues before they become expensive problems. Most clients save money versus as-needed service calls.
Trade Partner Services
What are your trade discount levels?
Trade partners receive preferred pricing based on purchase volume and product category. Established accounts with consistent monthly purchases qualify for our highest discount tiers. Special pricing is also available for large commercial projects.
What are typical lead times for orders?
Grout should be professionally cleaned annually and replaced every 10-15 years or when cracking occurs. Caulk requires replacement every 3-5 years in wet areas to prevent water damage. We offer maintenance packages covering both services.
Do you offer credit terms?
Qualified trade accounts receive Net 30 payment terms after credit approval. New accounts require credit application, business license, insurance certificates, and trade references. Established accounts may qualify for extended terms.
Can you handle large commercial projects?
Yes, we specialize in commercial projects from boutique hotels to multi-unit residential buildings. Our project management team coordinates deliveries, provides on-site storage solutions, and offers technical support throughout installation. Volume pricing available for large projects.
General Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve the Greater Eastside including Kirkland, Bellevue, Clyde Hill, Yarrow Point, Redmond, Sammamish, and Woodinville. Travel charges may apply for projects outside our primary service area. Commercial projects considered throughout Western Washington.
What deposit do you require?
We require 50% deposit for countertop projects upon template approval and 35% for tile installations upon contract signing. Balance due upon completion. Trade accounts follow standard payment terms. All deposits fully refundable if we cannot complete as specified.
Do you offer warranties?
We provide comprehensive warranties: 1 year on all installation work, 5 years on fabrication, and lifetime on workmanship defects. Manufacturer warranties apply to materials. Our maintenance services help preserve warranty coverage.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we maintain all required Washington State contractor licenses, general liability insurance ($2M), and workers’ compensation coverage. Certificates of insurance available upon request. All installers are company employees, not subcontractors.
How do I get started?
Retail customers: Send photos and rough measurements for initial budgets. If budget aligns, visit our showroom for consultation and material selection. Trade partners: Call for account setup and project quoting. We’ll schedule site visits as needed to finalize pricing.