Stone worktop questions, answered

Yes. A quote costs nothing and you are under no obligation.

Rough measurements or a sketch of the worktop runs, the stone you like (or a shortlist), and your postcode. A kitchen planner drawing or a few photos help too.

Mainly because of what is included: templating, cut-outs, edges, upstands, removal of old worktops and fitting. Our guide to what affects the price lists what to compare.

Not as a fixed list, because the stone, size, cut-outs and access change every job. Call 01908 024464 or use the callback form and we will price your kitchen.

Granite, quartzite and porcelain are the hardest. Quartz is close behind and the easiest to look after. Marble is the softest and will show wear.

Quartz and porcelain. Granite, marble and quartzite are sealed after fitting and resealed from time to time.

Granite and porcelain handle heat well. Quartz contains resin, which can mark from direct heat, so use a trivet. A trivet is sensible on any surface.

Some quartz can discolour after years of strong direct sun, which is why we suggest porcelain for conservatories and outdoor kitchens.

Quartz is engineered with resin; quartzite is a natural stone. See our quartz or quartzite guide.

Yes. The silica risk is to people cutting the stone, not to people using it. Our silica guide explains why.

Yes. Templating is done on the fitted, levelled units, with your sink, tap and hob chosen.

Usually, if they are sound, level and fixed to the wall. We check each one at templating. See replacement worktops.

If you ask, we include taking the old worktops away in the quote.

Sinks and hobs are reconnected after the stone is fitted. Gas hobs can only be reconnected by a Gas Safe registered engineer. The quote makes clear who does what.

Only where the kitchen is longer or deeper than a slab, or where a join makes the stone easier to carry in. We agree join positions with you before cutting.

Usually 20 mm or 30 mm for quartz, granite and marble, and often 12 mm for porcelain. A mitred edge gives a thin slab a thicker look.

A drop of mild washing-up liquid or a pH-neutral stone cleaner in warm water, then a dry soft cloth.

Abrasive pads, bleach and strong chemicals on quartz; vinegar, lemon and acidic limescale removers on marble, limestone and sealed natural stone.

Dry the stone by the tap after washing up so hard water cannot dry on it. Our hard water guide covers each stone.

We work across Milton Keynes and nearby towns including Newport Pagnell, Olney, Buckingham and Leighton Buzzard. See all areas, or put your postcode in the form and we will confirm.

Our regular area is listed on the areas page. For anywhere just beyond it, call 01908 024464 and ask; it depends on the size of the job.