What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring gas found throughout our environment. It is commonly found in the basements of homes built in the Midwestern and Eastern regions of the U.S. According to the EPA, the primary source of radon in any home is the soil surrounding the structure.[1] Radon is radioactive and prolonged exposure at elevated levels in a closed environment may increase health risks. As recently stated by the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST) in its Position Statement: Granite Countertops and Radon Gas: “Soil, sand and rock underneath the home are the primary sources of indoor radon gas.” The AARST states that, “while natural rocks such as granite may emit some radon gas, the subsequent levels of radon in the building that are attributable to such sources are not typically high.”[2]
[1] US Environmental Protection Agency. 2007. “A Citizen’s Guide to Radon” US EPA 402-K-07-009.
[2] American Association of Radon Scientists & Technologists, August 2008,“Position Statement: Granite Countertops and Radon Gas”
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How much radon is being emitted by my countertop?
Several scientific studies conducted through the years have found that it is extremely unlikely your granite countertop is emitting harmful levels of radon. Indeed, Richard E. Toohey, Ph.D., CHP, president of Health Physics Society (HPS), a scientific and professional organization whose members specialize in occupational and environmental radiation safety, recently indicated the risk, if any, is too small to be measured. As noted earlier, AARST has stated, “While natural rocks such as granite may emit some radon gas, the subsequent levels of radon in the building that are attributable to such sources are not typically high.”
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Is my countertop safe?
Studies conducted by respected scientists have found that the granite most commonly used in U.S. countertops is safe for use in homes. In fact, the highest radon emissions ever reported in these studies would create concentrations that are significantly lower than EPA guidelines to take any action. The primary source of radon in any structure is most likely to be the soil beneath it. If, however, you are concerned about the radon concentration levels in your home, you should have the overall air quality tested.
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What do the different price levels of stone mean? A, B, C, D or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Price levels are based on availability, supply, and transportation. For example, the A or 1 price group represents natural stone that is readily available. These quarries are easily accessed by machinery with convenient transportation routes. However, natural stones in the D or 5 price group have limited availability and access. They tend to exist in remote locations where transportation is more difficult. Many times these natural stones are only accessible during certain times of the year due to weather conditions. These sort of obstacles result in price variations.
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What is the difference between 2cm and 3cm?
2cm and 3cm material refers to the thickness of the stone. 2cm is ¾ inch thick and is usually laminated to form a 1½ inch edge. This material must be installed over a sub top support.
3cm is 1¼ inches thick and typically does not have a laminated edge. This material does not require a sub top support unless you choose a laminated edge, however the cabinets must be level.
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Is it important to seal natural stone?
Most granite countertops do not need to be sealed. Before 1995 there were very few quality penetrating sealers on the market and there were very few cases of staining. If you clean your countertops after each meal, you will rarely, if ever, have staining or cleanability issues with granite.
Using a sealer makes sense but will not prevent stains; it provides reaction time to clean your stone. If Stockett installed your material it was sealed before it came to our facility, once after we fabricated it and again when we installed it. Once properly sealed, the stone will be more resistant against everyday dirt and spills.
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Do all stones come from Italy?
No. Years ago natural stone was sent to Italy to be processed. Upon completion, the slabs were labeled “Made in Italy.” Because of that, consumers were under the impression that all natural stone originated in Italy. However, natural stone is found all around the world; Brazil is actually the leading supplier of granite.
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How long does the process take start to finish?
The average slab kitchen generally takes 10-14 days from day of template through fabrication and installation. If you have selected a custom edge or if your project is more than 100sf fabrication may take longer. Our scheduling department will call to schedule an installation date. The average kitchen usually takes 2 days to install.
The time necessary to complete your tile project depends on the availability of the material. If the tile is readily available, check with your project manager to determine the estimate number of working days to complete your project.
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Why should we approve our slabs before Stockett fabricates them?
At Stockett Tile and Granite, we understand how important your natural stone investment is. We want to be assured that you are 100% satisfied with your selection before we fabricate and install your new countertop. Given that natural stone is created by nature, it will vary in color, veining, and movement, as well as exhibit pits and fissures that are inherent in the stone.
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Can I re-use my existing sink?
Yes you can, however we strongly recommend against it. The installation of the new countertop material provides an opportunity to replace your plumbing fixtures. Also, once the new countertop is installed it will be virtually impossible to change it out later.
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Can I use my granite countertop as a cutting board?
We don’t advise cutting on granite, although it won’t hurt your countertops. Since the granite is harder than metal, you will end up with a very dull knife!
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How do we maintain our natural stone?
For detailed information on how to care for and maintain natural stone, see our Care & Maintenance section.
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