Plan with granite in mind

Whether you’re buying a house, building a house or simply looking to update your home, it is inevitable that at some point you’ll want to upgrade your kitchen to better suit the times and your lifestyle. It can however be difficult to know where to start, what style you like, what will look best in the space and what materials you want to use.On average 10 to 30 percent of your budget will be spent on the purchase and installation of your countertops and with such a large chunk being spent on this one area of the renovation, you’ll want to be sure you get it right.We believe that if you approach your kitchen renovation with granite already in mind, you can be sure of what you’ll be paying and most importantly, know what you’re paying for.

Investing into Your Home

Granite, unlike other popular countertop materials such as laminate can last you a lifetime, making them a worthwhile investment into your home.Although the initial price of a great granite countertop with proper installation and sealing may appear pricey, you can rest safe in the knowledge that you are paying for quality and longevity.Why pay half the price for a countertop that will last you a year or two before cracks, scratches and stains start to appear when you can pay for a lifelong guaranteed product? Whether you are planning on staying or selling, granite that is 5 years old or 15 years old will retain its value and undoubtedly increase the value of your property.

Low Maintenance

When you choose granite you are guaranteed to get a countertop material that is ideal for any kitchen space.With the kitchen being the heart of any home you will need a countertop that is low maintenance and with granite you can be sure that you wont have to resurface or repair anytime soon.Granite is rated a 7 on the Moh’s Hardness Scale which means it is extremely resilient and wont easily be scratched, scraped or chipped. You can even use your kitchen knives directly on the surface but be warned, because granite is an extremely durable mineral, you may notice your knives may start to dull.

Wide Range of Styles

Granite, as with many natural stones, offers a wide range of natural coloured countertop options to suit any kitchen.With no two slabs of granite being alike you will have a range of unique colours and patterns to choose from. Your kitchen countertops will allow you to create a beautiful and bespoke space in your home that your guests will continue to marvel at.Heat ResistantOne of key reasons why granite is often the first choice for homeowners looking for the perfect kitchen countertop is because of its heat resistance. In a kitchen where hot pots and pans are moved around, hot plates are placed to serve food and tea and coffee are always being made, heat resistance is key.Granite countertops will not melt or blister when exposed to extreme heat and is one of the most heat resistant materials on the market. It is however always recommended to use trivets and heat matts when placing hot pans on your counters but if you take a boiling pan off the stove and place it directly onto your granite countertop, you will find no issue.

Stain Resistant

Another key reason that granite is the ideal material for a kitchen is that is extremely stain resistant with darker coloured granite often not even requiring sealing with it being so dense. Lighter granite countertops on the other hand are slightly more porous and will require multiple coats of sealer when installed.This process will ensure that your granite countertop does not absorb liquid too quickly and can unlike some other surfaces allow liquids to evaporate from its surface.When granite is properly installed, sealing will be a guaranteed part of the process with your countertop often being treated prior to installation. Once it has been properly sealed and treated, you will have granite countertops that are completely stain resistant- perfect for any kitchen!

Contact us

If you are looking to for high quality Granite worktops for your kitchen installed by a friendly and reliable worktop installation company then don’t hesitate to give us a call or email our team for a free, no obligation quote today!

FAQ

Some questions & some answers

Where do you supply and install granite and quartz worktops?

Granite & Quartz Installations supplies and fits kitchen worktops across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and surrounding areas, with nationwide fitting also available. Our service areas include Manchester, Stockport, Wilmslow, Altrincham, Warrington, Chester, Bolton and Wigan. Send us your postcode with your enquiry so we can confirm availability for your address.

How much do quartz worktops cost?

Quartz worktop prices depend on your chosen stone, worktop dimensions, thickness and fabrication requirements. Sink and hob cut-outs, edge profiles, upstands, splashbacks and access to the property can also affect the total. Send us your kitchen plan or approximate measurements for a quote tailored to your project.

What information do you need for a worktop quote?

Please provide your postcode, contact details and a kitchen plan or the approximate length and width of each worktop section in millimetres. Include your preferred stone and details of any sink, hob, tap holes, drainer grooves, upstands or splashbacks. Let us know about stairs or restricted access too.

What is the difference between granite and quartz worktops?

Granite is natural stone, so its colour and pattern vary from slab to slab. Quartz is an engineered surface available in a wide choice of colours and designs, including marble-effect finishes. Both can suit kitchen worktops; the right choice depends on the appearance, maintenance requirements and budget you prefer.

What thicknesses are available for your worktops?

Our worktops are available in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses, depending on the selected stone. A 30mm worktop creates a more substantial appearance, while 20mm offers a slimmer finish. We can discuss the available thicknesses for your chosen design when preparing your quote.

What size are quartz slabs, and will my worktop need a joint?

Slab dimensions vary by stone and supplier. Whether your worktop needs a joint depends on the available slab size, kitchen layout, cut-outs and access to the property. We will discuss the proposed layout and any necessary joints before fabrication.

Are your worktops made to measure?

Yes. We template your kitchen to establish the measurements before fabricating the worktops to suit your layout. The finished pieces are planned around your cabinets, sink, hob and other agreed features.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Arrange templating once your kitchen base units are installed, securely fixed and level. This allows us to measure the finished layout accurately. Contact us earlier for an initial quote and advice on coordinating the worktops with your kitchen installation.

How long does it take from templating to installation?

We aim to manufacture and fit your worktops approximately seven days after templating. The timescale depends on your chosen stone, availability and project requirements. We will confirm the expected installation date when arranging your order.

How long does worktop installation take?

Installation usually takes around three to eight hours, depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen. Larger layouts, additional features or difficult access may require more time. We will discuss the expected fitting arrangements before installation day.

Can I see samples before choosing my worktops?

Yes. You can view a selection of granite and quartz samples at our Cheadle showroom or request free samples through our website. Viewing samples in your own kitchen can help you compare colours with your cabinets, flooring and lighting.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Can you install worktops in an upstairs kitchen or flat?

Yes, upstairs installations can be possible, subject to suitable access. Tell us about stairs, lifts, narrow doorways and other restrictions when requesting your quote. Additional labour charges may apply, and access can affect the size of the worktop sections we can bring into the property.

Can you replace my worktops without replacing the kitchen?

We offer worktop replacement as well as worktops for new kitchens. The existing cabinets and layout will need to be suitable for the new stone surfaces. Send us photographs and measurements so we can discuss your project and any preparation required.

Where is your granite and quartz showroom?

Our showroom is at Apex, Unit G037, Stanley Green Trading Estate, Duke Avenue, Cheadle, SK8 6RX. Contact us on 0161 302 8959 before travelling to check visiting arrangements and availability of the samples you would like to see.

Do you fit undermount sinks and connect the plumbing?

For undermount sinks, we secure the sink in position as part of the worktop installation. Suitable sink supports must be installed by you or your tradesperson beforehand. Securing the sink is separate from connecting the water supply and waste; please confirm the plumbing arrangements with us before installation.

Can you make matching upstands and splashbacks?

Upstands and splashbacks can be included in your worktop design, subject to the chosen material and project requirements. Include the dimensions in your enquiry and tell us whether you would like a short upstand, a splashback or full-height wall panels.

Can I put hot pans directly on quartz worktops?

Use a trivet or heat-resistant mat rather than placing hot pans directly on quartz. Although quartz is durable, excessive heat or sudden temperature changes can damage the surface. Follow the care instructions supplied for your particular stone.