01
The assembly, not just the finish
The Natural Stone Institute distinguishes calcareous stone, which is acid-sensitive, from siliceous stone, generally more resistant to kitchen acids but still not suited to acidic cleaners. Marble is commonly chosen for its softer visual depth; quartzite should be identified with the supplier rather than assumed from a sales label. Veins, fissures, resins and finish vary by slab. A sample cannot represent every portion of a full slab.
Natural Stone Institute · care and cleaning02
Ownership and maintenance
Staining and etching are different: an impregnating sealer can improve stain resistance but does not make stone stain-proof or prevent acid etching. Use the supplier’s compatible neutral cleaning guidance. Agree whether a developing patina is acceptable or whether periodic professional refinishing belongs in the ownership plan.
03
What the proposal must include
Quote the chosen slabs, layout/yield, edge profile, seams, cutouts, supports, templating, transport and installation. A material-only square-foot figure does not cover fabrication difficulty or wasted portions needed to align veins. Ask who owns slab approval and who pays if a late sink change requires a new cutout.
04
Resolve before procurement
Confirm appliance and sink specifications before templating. Review seam placement on a drawing and approve a representative finished sample. Have the fabricator evaluate support and handling; this comparison does not establish span, thickness or engineering limits.