Frequently Asked Questions

If a stone was formed by volcanic activity or melting, we call it a "Magmatic" stone. Granites are an example of magmatic stone — formed when liquid magma cooled and became very hard. All granites are also "Siliceous" stone, composed from silicates like feldspar, mica and quartz. Some granites have veins through their composition which are the result of unique metallic crystals deposited along with mineral crystals in the magma. As a result of these processes, granite is very hard, resistant to most household chemicals and often freeze/thaw stable.

Marble and limestone are sedimentary stones. Sedimentary stones were formed in places where layers of sediments were deposited, such as the bottoms of lakes, rivers and oceans — giving many marbles their gorgeous wavy veins. These are "Calcareous" stones, mainly composed of calcium carbonate, making them sensitive to mild acids typically found in kitchens. They are recommended for indoor use like bathroom vanities, furniture, or fireplace surrounds. Marble has been under more heat and pressure than limestone, which is why it can be polished to a high shine.

Travertine is another calcareous stone — a kind of limestone that forms from a chemically unique sedimentary process, creating many small holes in the body of the stone and allowing larger crystalline structures to grow. These holes are often filled during processing with cement or epoxy, giving travertine its unique look. Like marble and other limestones, travertine is best used for indoor applications, away from the thermal shock caused by abrupt and large temperature changes.

Sometimes while forming in the ground, sedimentary and magmatic stones can be changed by additional heat and/or pressures — these are called "Metamorphic" stones. Soapstone is a metamorphic rock mainly composed of talc and magnesium — it is resistant to mild acids but more easily scratched by kitchen utensils. Onyx is a metamorphic, calcareous stone — it is translucent and used in back-lit applications. Quartzite is sandstone transformed into quartz crystals under tremendous tectonic pressure. Not all quartzite is as acid-resistant as granite, which should be considered when deciding its application.

Engineered Quartz products are a mix of quartz crystals and silica blended with epoxy resin, cast into a single block and cut into slabs. They are extremely hard, chemically-resistant, almost non-porous, and consistent in colouration — an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Note that engineered quartz does not handle UV light well and can be scorched by high heat. Porcelain slabs are very large tiles manufactured to mimic stone. Unlike quartz, porcelain is UV-resistant, heat-resistant, and freeze/thaw stable — making it suitable for outdoor use as well.

Yes, we do! To order your free-standing vanity top, contact us with the following information: Shape (Oval / Rectangle), Faucet configuration (3 hole 4" on center / 3 hole 8" on center / single hole), Size (26×22 / 38×22 / 44×22 / 50×22), and Colour from our available options. Vanity tops include a 4" high back splash. If you do not see the size you need, we also offer custom vanity top sizing.

Yes! We do custom vanities in addition to the standard sizes. Check our measuring guide and video on the Custom Vanity page to learn how to properly measure your vanity, then submit your request via the website form and we'll send you a custom quote. If you're having trouble with the measurements, feel free to call us at (705) 673-5213.

We do! We have a wide selection of countertop remnants — leftover pieces from custom cuts — offered at a discounted price. Contact us today to see our current selection. Availability changes frequently, so we recommend calling or emailing to ask about what's currently in stock.