Friday, April 26, 2013

Choosing a Mankato Granite Company


If you’re in the process of remodeling your Mankato residence, you may be looking into granite options to add to your project. Granite is known for its durability and natural beauty. It offers a timeless look with modern color options, sure to match any interior design. There are a lot of granite companies in Mankato, so you might be wondering how to choose the best one for you. Below are some easy tips on how to pick out the right Mankato granite company for your project.

Remodeling Experience
An experienced Mankato granite company can make the process easier. It takes a skilled worker to craft the perfect stone for your home remodeling project. Fabricating granite countertops, vanities and backsplashes takes special tools and a trained eye. You'll want to choose an established company that has a good reputation. Those Mankato granite companies with the most experience are more likely to be able to walk you through the decision making process.

Price
Universal Stone is willing to provide you with a free estimate before you begin your Mankato granite project. We buy our stones directly from the quarries, so we will, in most cases, be able to offer you a better price on your slab of granite. Ask about any sales available at the time of your installation.

Time & Dedication
Work with a local Mankato granite company to establish a timeline for your granite project. A professional granite installer is able to give you a clear plan for your project. Go into the discussion willing to compromise, but still get your project done in a timely fashion. Also, listen to the way the granite installer talks to you during your estimate. Do they seem like they are really dedicated to your project, or does it seem like you are just another customer on the list? Nothing is worse than having a granite installer who seems rushed and uncaring.

When you’re ready for your free estimate from Universal Stone, call us today at 952-746-4690 or fill out our online form.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Eagan Granite Facts | Process of Forming Granite


Adding natural stone to your home can give it an updated look and increase its value. There are many natural stone options, so you are probably looking at multiple natural stones. One of the most popular natural stone options is granite.  In this blog, Universal Stone, Eagan granite experts, covers how granite is formed.

How Granite is Formed
Granite is the most popular and common igneous rock on earth. It's formed at a very slow rate under the earth's crust when magma is forced between rocks and cools. During the cooling process, crystals are formed giving granite its distinguishing features. These crystals harden in an interlocking pattern, making granite very dense and durable. This prolonged process is why granite is so valuable, tough and durable.

Granite can be of a darker hue in colors such as blacks, browns and deep greens. It is mostly comprised, though, of quartz and feldspar which can give it a red, pink, gray or white color with dark mineral grains visible throughout.

Uses for Granite
Granite can be found all around the world, under the earth, making it easily accessible to many people. It is extracted from the earth in large quantities, then polished and cut to size for modern remodeling projects. Granite is used today mainly for construction projects because of its durability. It's most frequently use as countertop material, but can be used as floor tiles, paving stone, curbing and more.

Eagan Granite for Your Home
Granite is used frequently in kitchen and bathroom countertop remodels in Eagan. It's durability, style variety and inability to harbor bacteria makes it the perfect stone to have in your home. Granite has an earth shaped beauty that other materials can't compare to. It comes in a wide variety of color options, so it compliments any home decor easily. You won't have to worry about replacing granite for the duration of the time you spend in your home. Granite can make your home more modern and will last for many years.

When you're ready to begin your Eagan granite remodeling project, call us at 952-746-4690 or fill out our online Free Quote Form.

Friday, April 12, 2013

5 Reasons to Choose Granite Countertops | Apple Valley MN


Do you need new countertops in Apple Valley? There are a lot of options to consider when making this type of change in your home. You may be concerned about the look and feel as well as the life and durability of the countertops you are about to purchase. Below are 5 reasons why you should choose granite for your home.

1. Natural Beauty. Granite is a naturally occurring stone and offers the beauty that can only found in nature. The look is naturally vivid and timeless. There are a wide variety of colors available that can match any lifestyle.

2. Durable. Granite is a very durable material. It is one of the toughest rocks on the planet because it is forged naturally to be strong. To cut granite, it takes a diamond cutting tool therefore, you won't be able to do damage with regular kitchen materials. These countertops can last for many years.

3. No Mold and Mildew. Granite is naturally dense material and it is sealed before being added to your home. Granite is also unable to harbor bacteria. These facts make it a great option for anywhere that is moist for example, a kitchen or bathroom.

4. Heat Resistant. Granite is heat resistant because it is formed underneath the earth's crust under an extreme amount of heat and a tremendous amount of pressure. This means that the heat of common household objects will not easily affect the surface. Normal use will not melt or cause a burn mark.

5. Wide Variety. Granite comes in many options. There are a variety of color options for granite countertops, from Absolute Black to White Wave and everything in between . There are choices to match any style of home and lifestyle. Once you have chosen a color, then you can think about edge profiles. You can show off the personality of your home by choosing the edge profile that works best for you.

If you're ready to start the process of putting granite in your Apple Valley home? Then fill out our Form for a Free Estimate or call us at 952-746-4690.