Granite Countertop Contractors

Granite Countertop Contractors

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Maintenance Of Natural Stone Installations Like Granite Countertops

It is essential to get yourself acquainted with the basics of natural stone maintenance, irrespective of whether you already own or are on the verge of owning a granite or marble countertop or other granite installations like a vanity top. Developing a countertop cleaning regimen is all about inculcating some right habits and is not demanding. It helps to sustain the durability and the overall appearance of granite installations, making them sturdier and visually-pleasing for a lifetime of sustained use.

Maintenance of Kitchen Countertops

The most commonly-used stone for kitchen countertops is either granite or some variety of green marble. The fact is that the maintenance regimen for both of them are strikingly similar. Most folks commit the mistake of using sprays and other cleaning agents that have been randomly picked at some supermarket or discount store for cleaning countertops. Many of these cleaning agents contain chemicals that could prove to be harmful to the granite surface and could lead to the tarnishing of the shine that is associated with granite surfaces, as they are corrosive in nature. Some granite surfaces could be resistant to such chemicals but this is something that is hard to establish. Stones like marble are made-up of calcite which is even more susceptible to being damaged by harsh chemicals found in cleaning detergents/sprays.

Note: it is always recommended that at the time of getting your countertop installed, insist upon questioning your contractor whether there is a real need for using impregnators for sealing the installation. Such sealers provide a high degree of protection against chemical agents but daily usage of such abrasive agents could even dampen the effectiveness of the best of sealers and leave stains that are sometimes impossible to eliminate.

Cleaning Tips — avoid the use of generic cleaners for cleaning your granite or natural stone countertops. Instead, try to use simple cleaning aids like water and sponge for keeping the surface clean. The best possible solution for such issues is being spontaneous, i.e. do not wait for cleaning the spill and always keep a small mop or a wet sponge handy to wipe-off the spilled material off the countertop surface. The best method is not to rub away the spill, but to immediately blot it with the an absorbent material. Your countertop cleaning regimen should be a combination of:

  • Spot cleaning that is done on a daily basis to remove accidental spilling on the countertop.
  • After-use cleaning that is used for cleaning the countertop after every episode of using the kitchen premises, even if you have not done much activity on the countertop itself as debris tend to settle down on it
  • Periodic servicing-type maintenance — this is done to address more serious issues such as—

1. Development of any minute cracks or broken edges that should be filled-up

2. Noticeable reduction in shine or overall lustre that can be solved with scheduled polishing

Many kitchens have small flower pots near/along the countertops. It should be noted that soil is the most common form of naturally-occurring abrasive agent and once it starts to get accumulated (invisible to the naked eye, i.e. in microscopic volumes) on the countertop surface, it will start to weather away the surface, every time you rub it hard with a cloth.

Makita PW5001C 4-Inch Hook and Loop Electronic Wet Stone Polisher
Makita PW5001C 4-Inch Hook and Loop Electronic Wet Stone Polisher
List Price: $482.20
Sale Price: $267.99
You save: $214.21 (44%)
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Description

The new Makita Wet Stone Polisher is precision engineered for a professional finish every time it makes contact with granite, marble, limestone and more. This polisher can tackle the most demanding polishing, sanding, shaping and light grinding jobs and is equipped with Soft Start Technology, Electronic Speed Control and a Variable Speed Dial range of 2,000 - 4,000 RPM. The PW5001C has without a doubt the performance, innovation and technology demanded by professionals. Don't settle for less when you can get it all with the Makita PW5001C Wet Stone Polisher.

Makita's 4-Inch Electronic Wet Stone Polisher is a favorite for professional stone work. The PW5001C combines 7.9 AMP power and variable speed control with optimum speed settings, soft start for smooth start-ups, and more. The result is a fast and powerful stone polisher with precision engineering for professional stone finish work..c26-caption {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;font-weight: bold;font-style: italic;}.c26-matrix1a {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #bcbec0;}.c26-matrix1b {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #a7a9ac;}.c26-matrix1h {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 11px;font-weight: bold;color: #ffffff;background-color: #008b97;text-align: center;}img.c26-border {border:1px black solid;}a.nodecoration {text-decoration: none}View largerPW5001C FeaturesPOWER - 7.9 AMP motor delivers 4,000 RPMPERFORMANCE - Speed dial for optimum speed control and setting (2,000 - 4,000 RPM)COMFORT - Soft Start for smooth start-upsCONTROL - Solid brass water feed valve for controlled rate of flowINCLUDES - Pad, side handle, head cover, front grip, wrenches and dust coverTool SpecificationsPolishing Disc4"No load speed2,000-4,000 RPMSpindle thread5/8" - 11 UNCAMPS7.9Overall length14-1/8"Net weight4.6 lbs.7.9 AMP Power with Variable Speed ControlThe PW5001C is powered by a 7.9 AMP motor with variable speed dial that provides optimum speed settings from 2,000-4,000 RPM. The electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load, and the soft start feature ensures smooth start-ups. It also includes a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) plug, and an overload switch to protect from armature failure.Comfort and ErgonomicsThe PW5001C weighs just 4.6 pounds and is built with ease-of-use features for extended operation. The durable housing cover protects the industrial die cast aluminum gear housing. The common fitting accepts the most popular water hose connections, and the three holes at the spindle top evenly spread water to the pad and prevent the pad from clogging. A side handle is included.Versatile Design for a Range of ApplicationsMakita's PW5001C is precision engineered for professional stone polishing applications. The PW5001C is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.About Makita's Hook and Loop Accessories and AttachmentsMakita's 4-Inch Electronic Wet Stone Polisher is a favorite for professional stone work. The PW5001C combines 7.9 AMP power and variable speed control with optimum speed settings, soft start for smooth start-ups, and more. The result is a fast and powerful stone polisher with precision engineering for professional stone finish work.About MakitaMakita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.WarrantyEvery Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.What's in the BoxMakita PW5001C 4-Inch Electronic Wet Stone Polisher, rubber pad, side handle, head cover, wrenches, front grip and dust cover.

Features

  • High power-to-weight ratio (1.72) for reduced operator fatigue
  • 3 holes at the spindle top evenly spread water to the pad and prevents the pad from clogging
  • Includes a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plug
  • Overload switch to protect armature failure
  • One-year manufacturer's warranty
Microsoft Wireless Desktop 3000 Keyboard and Mouse Combo
Microsoft Wireless Desktop 3000 Keyboard and Mouse Combo
List Price: $69.99
Sale Price: $44.41
You save: $25.58 (37%)
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Description

Low-Profile Wireless Keyboard and BlueTrack Mouse Desktop Set - USB

Features

  • Media Center Control media playback from your keyboard
  • Hot Keys One-touch access to Windows Media Player, e-mail, Home, calculator, My Documents, Zoom, instant messaging, and photos
  • Spill-Resistant, Quiet Touch Keys - Integrated water channels drain the liquid away
  • Mouse Works on Virtually Any Surface - Works more places than ever before, including on granite countertops, living room carpet, and rough wood tables
  • Reliable 2.4 GHz Wireless Up to a 30-foot range and less clutter on your desktop
Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
List Price: $259.60
Sale Price: $141.30
You save: $118.30 (46%)
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Description

Makita's 4-1/2-Inch SJS Angle Grinder combines 12 AMP variable speed power with comfort and motor-protection features for longer-lasting stone grinding and polishing performance. The 9564CV is engineered with Makita's innovative Super Joint System (SJS) to protect the gears for longer tool life..c26-caption {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;font-weight: bold;font-style: italic;}.c26-matrix1a {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #bcbec0;}.c26-matrix1b {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #a7a9ac;}.c26-matrix1h {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 11px;font-weight: bold;color: #ffffff;background-color: #008b97;text-align: center;}img.c26-border {border:1px black solid;}a.nodecoration {text-decoration: none}View larger9564CV FeaturesPOWER - 12 AMP motor delivers 2,800 - 10,500 RPMPERFORMANCE - Super Joint System (SJS) helps prevent gear damageSPEED - Variable speed (2,800 - 10,500 RPM)DURABILITY - Labyrinth construction, zig-zag varnish and thicker coil wires for longer tool lifeINCLUDES - Grinding wheel, wheel guard, side handle, inner flange, lock-nut, and wrenchTool SpecificationsGrinding wheel4-1/2"Wire cup brush3-1/2"Sanding disc4-1/2"No load speed2,800-10,500 RPMSpindle thread5/8"-11 UNCAMPS12.0Vibration5.0 (m/s^2)Overall length11-3/4"Net weight4.0 lbs.12 AMP Power with SJS to Protect GearsThe 9564CV is powered by a 12 AMP motor with soft start for smoother start-ups. The five-stage variable speed dial (2,800 - 10,500 RPM) allows the user to match the RPM to the application. The electronic limiter stops the motor and reduces accidental motor overload and burnout, and the electronic speed control maintains consistent speed under load. Labyrinth construction protects the motor with a complex set of channels, prohibiting dust and contamination. In addition, the protective zig-zag varnish seals the motor and bearings from dust and debris by creating a barrier under rotation. The 9564CV is engineered with SJS, an innovation from Makita that protects the gears by automatically disengaging the motor should the grinding wheel accidentally catch or bind.Comfort and ErgonomicsThe 9564CV is built with comfort and ergonomic features for extended use. The grinder weighs just 4 pounds with a lock-on switch for easy operation. In addition, the side handle can be easily installed on either side of the tool, and the "tool-less" wheel guard adjustment provides easy clamping.Variable Speed for Stone WorkThe 9564CV is a versatile and powerful grinder with variable speed, allowing the user to set the RPM to the material. The variable speed control feature makes the 9564CV ideal for stone work, including polishing and grinding. The 9564CV is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.About Makita's Super Joint System (SJS)Super Joint System (SJS) is an innovation from Makita engineering where the motor armature and spiral bevel gear are linked by a coil spring. If the grinding wheel catches or binds, the coil spring relaxes and disengages the gears from the motor. As the grinding wheel stops, the gears and motor are protected. Makita's growing line of SJS-equipped grinders includes models ranging from a 1/4" die grinder to a 7-inch angle grinder.About MakitaMakita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.WarrantyEvery Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.What's in the BoxMakita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch 12 AMP Variable Speed SJS Angle Grinder, 4-1/2-inch grinding wheel, side handle, wheel guard, inner flange, lock nut and lock nut wrench.

Features

  • Powerful 12 AMP motor design for increased output power in a more compact tool
  • Super Joint System (SJS) helps prevent gear damage
  • 5 stage variable speed control dial for matching the RPM to the work
  • Electronic limiter stops the motor and reduces accidental motor overload and burnout
  • 1 year warranty
Kitchen Farmhouse Apron Front Sink - White Single 30
Kitchen Farmhouse Apron Front Sink - White Single 30
List Price: $825.00
Sale Price: $739.00
You save: $86.00 (10%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Description

White farm house style kitchen sink. Single bowl, fire clay from Barclay. The Top is 29 3/4" wide x 17 1/2" deep x 10" high. The Base is 29 ¾" wide x 17 ¼" deep x 10" high. The Basin interior is 27 ½" x 15 ½" The inside is 9" deep and with a 1" wall thickness. It has a 3 ½" drain hole, can be used with a garbage disposal. This apron front sink weighs approximately 125 lbs. It is recommended that you do not have your countertop cut or cabinet build until your sink has arrived to insure a proper fit. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Features

  • Top 29 3/4" wide x 17 1/2" deep x 10" high.
  • Base 29 ¾" wide x 17 ¼" deep x 10" high.
  • Basin interior 27 ½" x 15 ½"
  • 9" inside depth and 1" wall thickness
  • FireClay - White