Granite Countertops in Thornton, CO
We measure, supply and fit granite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms across Thornton, Colorado.
- Quotes in writing
- 20 areas covered
Thornton Countertops fits granite countertops in homes across Thornton. We measure your cabinets first, then have each granite slab cut to fit them.
What granite is
The EPA says granite is a natural rock, formed by the cooling of molten rock. The U.S. Geological Survey says the name comes from the Latin word for grain.
The EPA says granite's durability and decorative appearance make it a popular building material in homes. We fit granite in kitchens, on islands and on bathroom vanity tops.
Granite, quartz and silica dust
OSHA and NIOSH put granite with marble as natural stone, and quartz with the man-made engineered stones. A report in the CDC's library says engineered stone typically contains more than 90% crystalline silica, a much higher share than granite at 30%.
Granite still has silica in it, so whoever you hire, ask where your slab will be cut and how they keep the dust down.
Granite and radon
The EPA says granite, like any other stone, may contain veins of natural radioactive elements such as uranium and thorium, and that the amounts may vary from stone to stone, or even within a single slab. Those elements break down into radon, a gas with no color or smell that may cause lung cancer.
The EPA also says the data so far is not enough to conclude that the types of granite commonly used in countertops are significantly raising radon levels indoors. It says radon from the soil beneath homes is a more common problem and a far larger health risk, and it recommends testing all homes for radon, granite countertops or not.
What sets the price of granite
We price granite countertops for your house once we've measured, and you get that quote in writing. Our price depends on the slab you choose, how much counter we cover, the edge you pick, and how many holes we cut for the sink and the cooktop, the burners set into the counter.
Not sure granite is the one? We can quote other stones too. We also fit quartz and marble.
What to get in writing
Ask for these in writing, whoever you hire:
- The name of the granite and the thickness of the slab.
- A drawing of the layout, with every seam and cutout marked.
- Which edge you are getting.
- Where the slab will be cut and shaped.
- Whether taking out and hauling away the old countertops is in the price.
- Who disconnects and reconnects the sink, faucet and cooktop.
Questions about granite countertops in Thornton
Do I need a permit for new granite countertops in Thornton?
Not for the countertops themselves. The City of Thornton lists replacing cabinets and counter tops among the inside projects that don't need a building permit. Plumbing, electrical or structural modifications do need one. If your new granite top means moving the sink, we'll check with the city's building division with you before we start.
How do I test my home for radon?
The EPA says do-it-yourself radon test kits are sold in stores and online, starting at about $25. If you're worried about radon in your home, the EPA says to buy a kit and use it as the instructions say.
Should I take out granite countertops if my radon test comes back high?
The EPA says the most effective step may be to install a device that removes radon from the air in the home, rather than to remove granite countertops.
How do I clean granite countertops?
FoodSafety.gov says to wash countertops with hot, soapy water, especially after they've held raw meat, poultry, seafood or eggs. On any countertop we fit, we'd still set hot pans on a stand or pad and use a cutting board for knives.
Is granite the same as quartzite?
No. The EPA calls granite a rock formed by the cooling of molten rock, while the U.S. Geological Survey says quartzite forms from sandstone. We fit quartzite countertops as well.
How do I pick a granite slab?
We'd have you look at the full slab before you choose, not just a small sample. Bring a cabinet door or a paint chip with you to hold next to it.
Can you replace my old laminate with granite?
Yes, we can take out old laminate or tile tops and fit granite in their place as part of a countertop replacement job.
Can you fix a chip in a granite countertop?
Send us a photo, or we can come out and look. We'll tell you whether a countertop repair will hold or the piece should be replaced.
Get a quote for granite countertops
Call us, or send the quote form with your ZIP code and the rooms you want done. We'll measure, go through granite slabs and edges with you, and give you a written quote. To see the other countertops we fit, go to the Thornton Countertops home page.
Ready to talk about your countertop job?
Send the quote form with your ZIP code and what you need. We will get back to you with a written quote.