Blume’s^® Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the thickness of each material?


2. Which materials are repairable?


3. Which materials can be used for outside purposes?


4. Which materials can be placed around fireplaces: i.e.: hearths & surrounds:


5. Which materials need to be sealed and how often?


6. Where can I purchase Granite Sealant?


7. Which materials can I use for vertical surfaces, such as wall material?


8. Can I receive my sink or cook top cutout for Quartz or Granite?


9. Are other granite colors available other than just stock colors?


10. What is the standard backsplash height for each material? Can I get other heights?


11. What is the difference between a loose backsplash and a cove backsplash? Which material's backsplash can be cove?


12. Which materials have visible seams and which have inconspicuous seams?


13. How do I remove stains from my countertop?


14. What will my cost be for my top(s)?


15. What will I need to have at the templating appointment?


16. How much overhang can I have before I need to have support?


17. What is the difference between the available bowl mounting? Which procedure of mounting is available for each material?


18. What is the difference between 16 and 18 gauge for Stainless Steel?


19. The granite I selected has pits in it. Is this normal?

What is the thickness of each material?

• Solid Surface: ½" built up to 1½"
• Quartz: 3cm (approx. 1 1/8" to 1 ¼" thick)
• Granite: 3cm (approx. 1 1/8" to 1 ¼" thick)

• Solid Surface: Yes
• Quartz: No
• Granite: No

• Solid Surface: No
• Quartz: No
• Granite: Yes

• Solid Surface: No
• Quartz: No
• Granite: Yes

• Solid Surface: No
• Quartz: No
• Granite: Yes. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions on how often to apply the sealant.

• Granite Sealant can be purchased through your Kitchen Dealer or Contractor from Blume's.

• Solid Surface: Yes
• Quartz: Yes
• Granite: Yes

• No, these cutouts are not available.

• Yes, Blume's works with Granite distributors in the area for you to select the color of your choice. These colors are by quote only and prices will vary.

• Solid Surface: Kitchen: 3 1/2" Vanity: 3"
• Quartz: Kitchen & Vanity: 4"
• Granite: Kitchen & Vanity: 4"

Custom backsplash heights are also available.

• Solid Surface: Yes
• Quartz: No
• Granite: No

• Solid Surface: Inconspicuous
• Quartz: Visible
• Granite: Visible

• Please refer to each materials Care and Maintenance.
  • KeyStone™ Solid Surface
  • HanStone™
  • KeyStone™ Granite
  • Corian®
  • Zodiaq^®

• Cost is determined by quotation only through any of our dealers.

• Bowl(s)
• Cook top/Range
• All appliances must be at the jobsite and set in place
• Faucets or faucet spreads

During the processing of your order, please ask an associate if you are unsure of the need of support.

The following are the limits on overhang before needing corbels. These numbers are assuming the 1/3 - 2/3 Rule* applies.

• Solid Surface: 12" (1 ½" Build Up with Solid Plywood)
• Quartz: 15"
• Granite: 8"

*The one third two third rule means: Two thirds of the total width of the countertop must be supported. Example you cannot put a 22" deep countertop on a 12" deep cabinet without corbels even though the overhang is within the limits.

What is the difference between the available bowl mounting? Which procedure of mounting is available for each material?

Solid Surface A- Mount

Solid Surface B- Mount

Quartz A- Mount

Quartz B- Mount

Granite A- Mount

• Solid Surface: A- or B- Mount
• Quartz: A- or B- Mount
• Granite: A- Mount only

• 16 and 18 gauge refers to the thickness of the stainless steel used to make the bowl. 16 gauge is heavier and thicker than 18 gauge.
  

The granite I selected has pits in it.  Is this normal?

• 15.5.1  “The pits do not make the granite less durable or otherwise inferior, and do not in themselves qualify the slab for replacement.  Pits are common in all granites and should be expected when dealing with natural, polished stone containing several types of minerals with different hardness.  It is usually best to not attempt repair of pits, as most repair techniques will not cosmetically improve the countertop.”

                        -Quoted from The MIA Design Manual