Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a question regarding natural stone, please feel free to write to us at marblegraniteint@yahoo.com.

Q: We're remodeling our kitchen and installing new countertops. Synthetic countertops cost slightly less than granite, but how do they compare in the long run?

A: As the saying goes, imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Countertops made from acrylic and other manufactured materials may have the "look" of granite, but the similarities end there. For resistance to bacteria, head, cratches, stains adn overall performance, granite is unsurpassed. Some marbles with honed or matte finishes also make high quality kitchen countertops.

Q: We're building a new home and would love to put a marble floor in our foyer, but we're concerned about the heavy foot traffic it will receive. Any suggestions?

A: Marble has been used as a flooring material for more than 6,000 years and contues to be a popular choice for bringing beauty to entry foyers and other areas of the home. You need only take some simple precautions to protect your investment. Use a non-slip mat outside the entrrance to your foyer and a carpet or areas rug inside to caputre the abrasive grit and dirt tracked in from outdoors. Dust mop your marble floor frequently to remove dirt and dust particles that can scratch the surface. Use warm water and a small amount of mild detergent to wash. Then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Q: After a recent party we discovered a dark red stain, possibly red wine, on our sandstone hearth. What can we do to remove the stain?

A: Because all natural stones is porous, it tends to soak up stains. But it is the same porosity that gives homeowners an edge in stain removal - you simply reverse the process by applying a chemical poultice, which re-absorbs teh spill. The choice of poultice materials will vary depending on the type of stone and the spill. When throughly dry, the poultice is removed and the stain should be, too.

Q: How long does it take to deliver the items in-stock at MGI?

A: One to two-weeks.

Q: How are Hand Crafted MGI Marble Mantels and Pedestals installed?

A: Fireplace-surrounds, Medallions and Pedestals are recommended to be installed by Kitchen and Bath specialists. Fireplace-surrounds usually come in 4 pieces (top, bottom and two legs). The installer might have to do some preparation work the surround can be installed. Pedestals usually come in 5 pieces and will have to be glued together. Other smaller items can be setup without any expert help.

Q: How much do Mantels weigh?

A: Fireplace surrounds weigh 300 to 700 pounds. Pedestals weigh approximately 250 pounds. Floor Vases weigh around 200 pounds. *These figures are for just to provide an approximate idea. Actual weight of each item will be different. There will be added weight of shipping wooden crates.

Q: How should I maintain and care for these?

A: Simple, regular maintenance will keep marble looking beautiful for life. Marble is prone to staining, etching and scratching. A penetrating sealant can be applied on a biannual basis to help protect the marble from damage.

Q: What about pricing?

A: Please call or e-mail for pricing.

Q: What is natural stone?

A: Nature has taken millions of years to create the marvel of natural stones which is clearly unmatched by any other building material so far in strength, durability, beauty and stunning colors. The difference in natural stone is due to geological formation of stones in various regions of this planet Earth.

Granite

is an Igneous rock, found deepest in the Earth’s crust. Formed by cooling and solidification of molten rocks. Granite is second in Hardness to Diamond.

Marble, Onyx & Slate

are Metamorphic rocks, formed when chemically active fluids, pressure and heat comes in contact with deeply buried rock. The beautiful veining pattern present in stone is a result of metamorphic heat.

Limestone, Sandstone & Travertine

are Sedimentary rocks, found on the outside crust of the Earth, weathered and buried under sediments, and are bonded over time to form these beautiful stones.

Q: What are the salient Features & Benefits of natural stone?

A: Nature’s Beauty! The extensive color selection and the uniqueness of each slab of granite, design possibilities are endless.

Scratch Resistant

Weighing in at a "7" on the 'Measure Of Hardness Scale' Natural Granite (Quartz) is the most scratch resistant countertop on the market today. The only materials harder are Diamond, Topaz and Sapphire. Extremely resistant to everyday normal abuse caused by objects such as knives, toys, keys etc.

Heat Resistant

Granite is naturally burn resistant withstanding temperatures up to 1200° F. "So, if a building burns down... the only thing left will be granite countertops! “Since natural granite can withstand so much heat you do want to caution yourself against 'thermal shock' (going from a low temperature to a really high temperature in a short period of time). So, you still want to use good judgement in placing extremely hot pans on your countertop.

Wear Resistant / Extremely Durable

Because of granite's natural characteristics being extremely hard, resistant to scratches and resistant to heat, it has become the material of choice when a project demands something to be "Built to Last". For thousands of years, granite has been used to construct buildings, walls and floors and has proven the test of time withstanding powerful forces such as the heat of the sun, damaging rains and strong winds.

Stain Resistant

Seal your granite countertops every year or two, with an easily applied stone sealer to assure against possible staining. This process takes about 5 minutes and can be simply applied by the customer.


Partical excerpt taken from "Questions and Answers"
by the Marble Institute of America

© Marble and Granite International LLC - MGI Marble
11304 Pineview Crossing Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63043, USA
Telephone: (314) 265-5945 Fax: (888) 239-2597
marblegraniteint@yahoo.com