There are many reasons granite has become the top choice for kitchen countertop material
St. Louis, MO - Granite is quickly becoming the most sought after material for kitchen countertops. Charlie Thiede, President of Rock Tops Granite recently visited the new store that opened in Maryland Heights, Missouri. During a tour of the showroom, Charlie pointed out the benefits of selecting granite. Charlie said, "You can't question the beauty of these naturally made slabs of granite. With all the detail that Mother Nature has created, combined with a skilled granite stonemason to cut and finish the stone to perfection, exposing beautiful grains, we create nothing short of a masterpiece that can be displayed in your kitchen for decades."
The tour continued with Charlie marveling at the natural beauty of granite. "There are no two slabs that are exactly alike," said Charlie. "Granite is formed by nature; patterns and movement seen in one slab will not be repeated in another. If you choose granite for your kitchen countertops, it is a guarantee that your countertop will be unique; no one else will have one exactly like yours."
Charlie showed that granite is available in different colors, some available from different regions. "For those who want something extra special, they can choose Indian Stone, Italian Stone or Brazilian Stone, to name a few," said Charlie.
Near the conclusion of the tour, Charlie explained how granite is the strongest and most durable of materials to be used for a kitchen countertop. "A granite kitchen countertop could outlast the entire house; it's very durable," said Charlie. "That is not to say it can be abused, but is can resist more abuse than other countertop materials. It also requires some maintenance, which is what we will talk about now."
At the very end of the tour, Charlie explained how to care and maintain a new granite kitchen countertop. He thanked everyone for their interest and for taking the time to visit their new showroom. He handed out some information for them to take with them and headed for the front counter where a couple was ready to have measurements taken for their kitchen countertop.
Rock Tops Granite specializes in fabricating and installing granite and marble countertops. They have installed over 10,000 countertops in 2008 alone, and are expanding their business and plan to open several new locations in the US during the next year. This fast growing company, offering hundreds of new jobs, is what our economy needs right now. Rock Tops of Maryland Heights, Mo services St Louis, Creve Coeur, Chesterfield and neighboring cities. Visit Rock Tops Granite to learn more or to contact them about possible employment.
Contact:
Jack Feasel, Field Measurer
11550 Page Service Dr; Ste 300
Maryland Heights, MO 63146
Phone: 314-993-8300
Email: jackf@rocktopsgranite.com
There are several things consumers can do to protect themselves, including good research and asking the right questions
St. Louis, MO - Even in today's economy, there are still many people investing in home improvement and remodeling projects. Charlie Thiede, President of Rock Tops Granite was interviewed shortly after the grand opening of their store in Maryland Heights, Missouri. Charlie said, "Customers are showing more concern about being ripped off by remodeling companies. They appear to be excited about ordering new kitchen countertops, but closing the deal is another story. More people are taking contracts and seeking advice from attorneys or other advisors before finally signing."
Charlie offered some tips to consumers looking for kitchen remodeling contractors. He recommends that they look at a portfolio of previous jobs and check references. "Most reputable companies are proud to show their work. If possible, go and view an actual job that they did," said Charlie. "It is also a good idea to ask to see the company's license and proof of adequate liability insurance coverage."
Rock Tops Granite has showrooms all over the US where they take consumers on tours and show them the slabs of granite, offer tips on selecting a granite slab for their kitchen countertop and on care and maintenance of a granite countertop. Tour leaders are also able to answer other questions on granite and marble; what makes some products a better choice than others, pros and cons of various products and anything else the consumer may be concerned about.
The interview concluded as Charlie explained about the quality of products used by kitchen remodeling companies. "Be sure you are getting what you are paying for. If you are promised a kitchen countertop from one slab of granite, be sure the company doesn't show up with several remnants; the may look very much alike, but when installed, you will notice variations."
Rock Tops Granite specializes in fabricating and installing granite and marble countertops. They have installed over 10,000 countertops in 2008 alone, and are expanding their business and plan to open several new locations in the US during the next year. Their use of advanced technology is what sets them apart from other granite and marble fabricating companies. Rock Tops of St. Louis services Chesterfield, Florissant, St. Ann, Maryland Heights and neighboring cities and communities. Visit a Rock Tops Granite showroom to learn more.
Contact:
Jack Feasel, Field Measurer
11550 Page Service Dr; Ste 300
Maryland Heights, MO 63146
Phone: 314-993-8300
Email: jackf@rocktopsgranite.com
Rock Tops Granite Showroom presents a FREE Workshop Presentation, open to the public; all are welcome to attend this special event to learn:
Thursday evening, December 4, 2008, at 6pm
Saturday afternoon, December 6, 2008, at 1pm
Many of our customers have described the viewing of the stone in our showroom "like going to a fine art gallery." Let Rock Tops Granite bring Mother Nature's Art Gallery into your home.
These one-hour workshops will be held at Rock Tops Granite showroom in Maryland Heights, Missouri. Visit our website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com Contact for details:
Contact:
Erica Robinson, Office Manager
11550 Page Service Dr; Ste 300
Maryland Heights, MO 63146
Phone: 314-993-8300
Email: ericarobinson@rocktopsgranite.com
Rock Tops Granite Representatives will give a one-hour presentation, in their showroom, to provide consumers with tips on selecting and maintaining granite kitchen countertops
St. Louis, Mo - Charlie Thiede, president of Rock Tops Granite, knows how important it is for consumers to make an informed decision as to the selection of their kitchen countertop material. Charlie provides workshops that are open to the public and designed to offer guidance on selecting a granite slab for their countertop and on how to care and maintain the granite after it is installed. The one-hour workshops will be offered on Thursday evening at 6:00pm and Saturday afternoon at 1:00pm, December 4th and December 6th.
At a recent workshop at the Maryland Heights showroom, Charlie explained, "We have a very large variety of over 400 unique slabs of granite, in different colors and textures. We offer our customers tips on selecting the right piece for their kitchen, as we help them narrow down their choice according to certain characteristics."
Charlie also covered care and maintenance of granite countertops. Charlie said, "Granite is among the most durable of materials for kitchen countertop use. It is heat, stain and scratch resistant; however, it does require some care to maintain its quality and good looks. When you invest in long-lasting quality, you do not intend to make any changes in the near future."
Rock Tops Granite specializes in fabricating and installing granite and marble countertops. They have installed over 10,000 countertops in 2008 alone, and are expanding their business and plan to open several new locations in the US during the next year. Their use of advanced technology is what sets them apart from other granite and marble fabricating companies. Rock Tops recently opened a showroom in Maryland Heights, Missouri, serving the St. Louis County area. Visit http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to learn more.
The workshops scheduled for December 4th and December 6th will be at the new Rock Tops Granite Showroom.
Contact:
Jack Feasel, Field Measurer
11550 Page Service Dr; Ste 300
Maryland Heights, MO 63146
Phone: 314-993-8300
Email: jackf@rocktopsgranite.com
This press release was submitted by Right Now Marketing Group, LLC
Rock Tops Granite representative joins the panel of experts to answer questions for property managers and home buyers
Detroit, MI - The day they were looking forward to finally arrived. Mark Maupin and a group of his real estate investors have been anxiously waiting for the newest vendor to visit the group and share a great home renovation product. Wednesday, November 19th Mark Maupin of National Real Estate Network hosted Rock Tops Granite to give tips to home buyers considering a granite countertop renovation project. As with any kitchen remodeling project there are a lot of details that need to be seen to before you start the project. Mark explained, "The granite kitchen countertop sets the tone for the rest of the kitchen design, so this is a great place for the planning to start." Mark introduced Charlie Thiede, president of Rock Tops Granite, to share tips and answer questions.
There are a few things to take note of before buyer puts in an order for kitchen countertops as well as a way you may be able to save a few dollars on the project. One member asked, "What about using tiles instead of an entire slab?"
Charlie answered, "Granite comes in both forms; slabs and tiles. Slabs are large pieces of granite that are generally full sections of the countertops. Tiles on the other hand are smaller sections that are pieced together, with grout in between, to create the countertop. Though the tiles are less expensive, they are also less hygienic, as food and debris tend to get caught in the grout lines. Tiles are really more appropriate for a floor, but one can save money by using them for the countertop instead of the full slab."
Charlie also reminded the group to be sure to factor in the cost of a back splash when planning their new kitchen. "Many customers forget about this part, and then they are dismayed when the price is a little higher than they anticipated. When we quote a price per foot, they forget to figure in the important back splash, which prevents water from going down the wall, behind the countertop, causing rot and mold in the wall. A back splash is not only decorative; it serves an important purpose and must be factored in to give the countertop a finished look and to protect the wall behind it.
When asked about sealing a granite countertop, Charlie explained, "Sealing is a personal decision, but we highly recommend it. Granite is an organic product; it is porous and can become discolored if it absorbs something that is spilled on it. Sealing the granite is a way to protect it and keep it looking great for many years."
Charlie concluded his speaking by advising the group to give a lot of thought to their kitchen renovation project and their budget. "Of course you need to keep your budget in mind, but remember, a granite countertop will probably outlast your home! It is very durable and requires little maintenance to keep it looking nice, so it doesn't pay to cut too many corners with this perfect product. With our use of advanced technology in stone processing equipment, we are able to create a perfect cut and finish for a custom kitchen countertop much quicker than the companies who still use hand tools and routers. Our savings in labor hours is passed on to the customer in a discounted price for granite countertops. If you shop around, which I recommend you do, you will find that we are very competitive in our pricing."
Rock Tops Granite has a large, 15,000 sq. ft. showroom in Macomb, Michigan, where people can come in 7 days a week to take a tour and learn more about the selection and maintenance of granite kitchen countertops. Visit http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom near you.
Contact:
Rock Tops Granite
17411 23 Mile Road
Macomb, MI 48042
Toll Free: 1.877.ROCKTOP
Phone: 586.263.6621
Fax: 586.263.7067
Email: info@rocktopsgranite.com
Rock Tops Granite artfully merges the latest technology with old world stone craftsmanship to create quality products adding beauty and elegance to any home or commercial building.
Rock Tops Granite's goal is to artfully merge the latest technology and old world stone craftsmanship in creating quality products, professionally installed. At Rock Tops, with over three million dollars of the most up to date computer controlled cutting equipment, we deliver an unmatched polished edge and a perfect cut and outline every time.
At Rock Tops Granite your satisfaction is set in stone.
Due to the escalating prices for artificial hard surfaces you can enjoy the natural beauty and durability of granite and other natural stone for almost the same price. At Rock Tops we have a huge selection of full slabs. Many of our customers have described the viewing of the stone in our showroom "like going to a fine art gallery."
So if you're ready for the most perfect countertops at the best possible price, or if you simply enjoy looking at beautiful things, stop by Rock Tops brand new showroom and manufacturing facility.
Bring Mother Nature's Art Gallery into your home.
No other granite and marble fabricator can beat the experience of Rock Tops. The owners of Rock Tops and its management team have over 100+ years of combined /specialized experience.
Owners
Charlie Thiede
Bob Gasiorowski
Management Team
Jeff Rogers - General Manager (Michigan Home Operations)
Gary Wiley - General Manager (Out-state Operations)
Scott Smith - Installation Manager
Don Ott - Master Fabricator/Installer
Sales Team
Sal Delacasa - Macomb, MI - Sales Manager
Gary Wiley - Wixom, MI - Sales Manager
Mike Eubanks - Saline, MI - Sales Manager
John Baird - Holly, MI - Sales Manager
John Caterina - Grand Rapids, MI - Sales Manager
Gary Wiley- Noblesville, IN - Sales Manager
Gary Wiley- Columbus, OH - Sales Manager
Computer Controlled Cutting Technology
At Rock Tops we have invested over one million dollars of the most up to date computer controlled cutting equipment. We deliver a superior polished edge, and a perfect cut and outline every time. The use of computer numerically controlled stone cutting and shaping equipment delivers unmatched accuracy, quality cuts and a superior polished edge - over and over again. Then our skilled stone craftsmen hone our products even further to deliver superior customer satisfaction.
This system also expedites the field measuring process, and it is especially attractive for remodels because the technology allows for detailed measurements to be taken, and accurate data to be collected, without having to remove the existing counter tops. Now you don't have to live without use of your kitchen while your replacement counter tops are being fabricated. It also helps to map uneven wall surfaces for an accurate fit and finish. Again, our skilled stone craftsmen finish the job to your complete satisfaction.
Natural stone, and granite in particular, provide organic beauty, indisputable strength and ultra durability. Granite is one of the oldest and most respected building materials. Traditionally, it is the ideal material chosen by architects and engineers when permanence, enduring color and texture, and complete freedom from deterioration and maintenance are paramount.
Granite can be used indoors and outdoors. Both eye-catching and ageless, Granite is available in a slew of striking colors, textures and finishes that will complement any dècor. Granite is the ultimate material for interior design on countertops and bath vanities, reception desks, conference tables, fireplaces, pedestals and bistro tables.
As an architectural stone, granite can be installed on stairs and copings, window sills and moldings, columns, interior and exterior cladding panels. Granite can hold up in the most demanding situations, such as commercial kitchens in restaurants and institutions. Its inherent strength makes it highly resistant to wear and tear on interior flooring applications.
When used outdoors, granite's mineralogical composition can endure freeze and thaw cycles. The diamond-like hardness of granite makes it impervious to extreme heat, ultraviolet light, acids, and abrasions. However, it is somewhat porous and requires a penetrating sealer to deter stains. Elite sells the stone care products for household use to carry out this annual maintenance procedure.
Product Variety
Our expertise allows us to offer a large variety of products - from kitchen island tops and corporate conference tables, to hotel counters and building exteriors.
Finishes
Granite surfaces may be finished in a number of ways. In general, smooth finishes tend to emphasize color and veining, whereas rough finishes tend to subdue the veining or markings. Typical finishes are:
Polished - A glossy surface that brings out the full color and character of the granite.
Honed - A satin smooth surface with little or no gloss.
Fine Rubbed - Smooth and free from scratches, no sheen.
Rubbed - Smooth, flat, non-reflective surface, with occasional light trails or scratches.
Sawn - A comparatively rough surface.
Thermal (flamed) - Rough surface produced by application of high temperature flame to the surface.
Other finishes such as shot ground, sand blasted, and bush hammered are available. Some stone finishes can affect strength and durability. Examples are bush-hammered and thermal finishes which initially reduce a stone's thickness and also make it more vulnerable to weakening from exposure to freeze and thaw cycles. The type of finish desired bears some relationship to final cost.
Natural Color Variations
Granite is a natural product, with naturally occurring variations in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are the source of its natural beauty. The samples you see will not be the same when compared to the slabs you receive. A sample is a piece from the slab, and since granite is a product of nature they ought to differ.
Granites such as absolute black, black galaxy, and a few more are similar through out having no or very little variation. It is always wise to see the slab and not judge by the sample.
Click here for color samples.
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