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Austin Stone Works
13810 IH 35
Austin, Texas 78728
(512) 990-9800
Fax: (512) 990-7701
granite@austinstoneworks.com
We are your source for Granite Countertops in Austin, Texas.
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Q. Why should I contact Austin Stone Works and not another company?
A. In an industry with such an amazing growth rate, the number of new fabricators opening for business is truly astonishing. Some of them might still be in business in a year. In such a situation, you must carefully select a contractor to make your countertops.
If you choose us or someone else, please be sure to:
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Check References
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Get a Certificate of Insurance from the company's insurance agent (not directly from the company) and make sure both liability and workman's compensation insurance is on the policy.
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Visit the fabrication facility, showroom, and stockyard.
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We invite you to come to our facility and tour our showroom and shop, examine our work, visit with our specialist...and then take a look at the other fabricators. You will see that Austin Stone Works is your best value and your best choice.
Q. What do we do to get from your plan to a real finished product?
A. Here is the process that we usually follow:
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Get your drawing to us (e-mail, fax, walk in, etc).
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Select the material that you like (we will supply you with samples).
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Select the shape of the countertop edge.
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Decide what kind of sinks, faucets, and cooking facilities you want in your tops.
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We will create a proposal based on your drawing, details, and materials selected.
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We then review what you need to do to prepare for our field measure.
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Our production manager will coordinate schedules and production. He is available for your questions and will review preparation for the on-site measure.
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We will then measure and make the templates as needed.
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Production begins. Production time will vary.
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Installation is scheduled.
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We will arrive as we have scheduled. We will contact you if we are running off schedule.
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We believe that the cornerstone to good work is good communication!
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Q. What is quality stone work? How do I recognize it?
A. Quality is important. Quality is a combination of the following for the fabricator:
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Measuring the job site. An accurate measure at the outset will insure an accurate fit.
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Matching material. Natural stone is a product of nature therefore it varies in color, structure, and characteristics. Our slab inventory enables you to select the bundle of material that will be used on your project. We will reserve additional material in case of breakage during fabrication or installation.
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Machinery to cut, shape, and polish and skilled craftsman to finish and install. An efficient shop is a combination of machinery (ensuring consistent shape, straight lines, and mirror like polish) and skilled craftsman to do the work machinery cannot. Skilled craftsman are hard to come by. Be wary of shops relying completely upon employees with hand tools. It takes skill, planning, and the right equipment to fabricate and install your project on time and to your satisfaction.
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Communication with the client and control of the project. It is important that we understand what you want to achieve; that we are all "working on the same page". Our sales staff, and production manager will insist on reviewing the job with you and will help you prepare for the work to come. This process has been very successful and has reduced mistakes and confusion.
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All of this is vital to ensure a quality product.
Q. How do I care for my stone?
A. A mild neutral detergent and water is fine for cleaning stone. Avoid acidic cleaners on marble and limestone; acids will etch and dull the finish. Avoid abrasive cleaners as marble and limestone will scratch. Clean up spills when they occur, especially on marble and limestone as spills will leach into the stone leaving a spot.
All tops installed by Austin Stone Works are sealed with a penetrating sealer.
Q. How resistant is granite and marble?
A. Granite is one of the hardest materials on earth. Used as a countertop material, it is resistant to scratches, acidic stains and heat.
Marble is sensitive to acidic foods such as vinegar, lemon, tomatoes, wine and some cleaners. Marble works beautifully, especially in the bath where the veining patterns and colors that appear can be used to create exquisite designs.
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