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Measuring for granite countertop

Article Number: 361 | Rating: Unrated | Last Updated: Wed, Aug 22, 2007 at 12:00 AM

I have measured the literal square footage for my new countertop. It is a fairly simple job with no backsplash, an undermount sink and a free standing range. I calculate 56 squarefeet. Is there some industry standard of something like +10%, so that I will be charged for something like 62 square feet? Some fabricators are advertising an all inclusive per square foot price, so I am trying to get a handle how my mesure of 56 SQFT will compare to how the pros measure the SQFT. Thank you very much. JM

Dear jmd:

It all depends on the type of granite or "granite" you choose. Small slabs or "granites" with a lot of movement will generate a huge waste that could even reach 50% or even more in certain cases. In the best case scenario, i.e.: black "granite", you can't figure anything less than 15% above actual footage.

But, allow me to tell you that you're starting your shopping with the wrong foot. I can understand that everybody is trying to save a buck and make sure that one is not taken for a ride, but reputable fabricator don't take their customers for a ride. The real issue is, how to select a good fabricator... And comparing the way they advertise their pricing is the last criterium you want to use.

We have available a very comprehensive article on “How to Shop for a Granite Kitchen Countertop” that will give you all the intelligence you need to venture yourself with confidence in the stone industry jungle, and it includes the world renowned “Lemon juice (and oil) test”! It does carry a small price tag, and you can order it by logging on the Educational Literature section at: http://www.marblecleaning.org/literature.htm. It's available in pay-per-download format and I consider it a cheap “insurance premium” to pay when there are thousands of $ involved! Not to mention the little and much needed support you'd be giving to the cause, your cause, since every single penny of the cost of the article will be used to support it.

Also, will you please read and e-sign our Statement of Purpose at: http://www.marblecleaning.org/purpose.htm? By spreading the word about this valuable site among your friends & family and the stone trades' people you've been dealing with you will be rendering everybody a valuable service!

Also, do take advantage of the plethora of FREE Helpful Hints available at: http://www.marblecleaning.org/helpful-hints.htm. They're on the house!

Thank you.

Ciao and good luck,

Maurizio Bertoli

www.marblecleaning.org – The Only Consumers' Portal to the Stone Industry Establishment!