FAQ
Home / FAQ
FAQ
Stone Aura Countertop and Stonework FAQs
Whether you’re weighing the pros and cons of granite, quartz, or porcelain, curious about the fabrication process, or seeking tips on maintenance and repair, we’ve compiled the most-asked questions from our Caldwell and Treasure Valley neighbors.
What types of stone materials do you offer for countertops?
We fabricate and install three primary materials:
Granite: A natural igneous stone prized for its durability, heat resistance, and unique veining. Requires sealing to prevent stains.
Quartz: Engineered from quartz minerals and resin. It’s non-porous, low-maintenance, and offers consistent color and pattern.
Porcelain: A man-made, kiln-fired slab that’s extremely heat resistant and thin, mimicking stone at a lower cost.How do I choose between granite, quartz, and porcelain?
Consider your lifestyle and budget:
● Granite offers one-of-a-kind beauty and heat resistance, but needs periodic resealing and can chip.
● Quartz is almost maintenance-free and durable, but can be damaged by high heat.
● Porcelain is lightweight and the most heat resistant, but is more brittle and may cost more to install.What is the stone fabrication process, and how long does it take?
1. Design & Templating: Precise measurements and edge profiles are determined on-site.
2. Inspection & Cutting: We inspect slabs to showcase the best veining, then cut with industry-leading CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery.
3. Sealing & Polishing: Slabs are sealed against moisture and polished to your finish of choice.
From slab selection to ready-for-install usually takes about two weeks.Do I need to seal my countertops, and how often?
Granite: Porous by nature; reseal roughly every 12–18 months to prevent stains.
Quartz & Porcelain: Non-porous; factory seals mean you typically never need to reseal.How do I clean and maintain my stone countertops?
● Wipe daily with mild dish soap and warm water.● Use cutting boards. Avoid cutting directly on stone.● Never use bleach or acidic cleaners on natural stone; for quartz/porcelain, avoid abrasive pads.
Can Stone Aura install my countertops and remove old ones?
Yes. Our installation team will:
1. Remove and dispose of your existing countertops.
2. Level cabinets and apply professional-grade adhesive.
3. Transport and install your new stone with state-of-the-art equipment.How do I prepare my kitchen or bathroom for stone installation?
To ensure a smooth install:
● Clear the Area: Remove furniture and items from cabinets.● Clean: Wipe down surfaces adjacent to installation sites.● Protect: Cover immovable items to guard against dust.What edge profiles are available for stone countertops?
We offer everything from simple eased edges to waterfall, ogee, bullnose, and custom profiles, determined during the design/template phase.
What areas do you serve?
Stone Aura serves western Idaho (Caldwell, Boise, Nampa, Eagle, Meridian, Mountain Home, McCall) and eastern Oregon (including Ontario).
Do you offer free consultations or quotes?
Yes, we provide free, no-obligation consultations and quotes. We also offer discounts on remnant stone and weekly specials.
How much does a new stone countertop cost?
Costs vary by material, edge profile, and project size:
● Granite: $50–$100 per sq. ft. installed● Quartz: $60–$120 per sq. ft. installed● Porcelain: $40–$90 per sq. ft. installed
Final pricing includes fabrication, installation, and any demolition or sink cut-outs.What is a groutless stone shower surround, and can you install one?
A groutless shower uses large stone or porcelain panels, eliminating grout lines for a seamless look. Stone Aura fabricates and installs custom groutless surrounds for enhanced waterproofing and ease of cleaning.
What maintenance do groutless showers require?
● Wipe panels with a soft cloth after use to prevent soap scum.● No grout means no resealing and minimal mold risk, just regular mild-soap cleaning keeps panels pristine.
What are stone remnants, and how can I use them?
Remnants are off-cuts from larger projects sold at deep discounts. They’re perfect for smaller countertops, backsplashes, window sills, cutting boards, or custom tabletops.
Can you repair chips, cracks, and etching in my stone surfaces?
Absolutely. Our stone repair service addresses chips, cracks, and etching in granite, quartz, or porcelain, restoring your surface to like-new condition.
How long has Stone Aura been in business?
Founded in 2018 by a team with over 20 years of collective stone-fabrication experience, we’ve grown from a small shop to a leading Treasure Valley contractor.
Do you offer services in Spanish?
Yes, Stone Aura is fully bilingual and happy to assist customers in both English and Spanish.
How quickly can you complete a small stone repair?
Small repairs (chips, minor cracks, etching) are often completed within 1–3 business days, depending on scheduling and material availability.
What warranty or guarantee do you provide on your stonework?
We stand behind our craftsmanship with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If any workmanship issue arises, we’ll address it promptly at no additional charge.
How do I contact Stone Aura to schedule a consultation?
Call us at (208) 936-0606 or fill out our online contact form. Our team will get back to you promptly to set up your free consultation.
contact us