FAQ

We've taken all the stress and guesswork out of your stone installation project.

When it comes to stone, we know that you're looking for the best materials and the highest level of support and guidance. That's why The Stone Shop is here to provide you with the information you need to make your next project a success.

The stone fabrication process doesn't have to be overwhelming—we've got all the answers to your common questions so you can get started on your project right away. If you have more questions, just send us a message or stop by our showroom and slab warehouse in Ankeny, Iowa.

The Stone Shop female employee holds a measuring tape against the wall to measure the space.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions Sintered Stone Questions

General Questions

Do you offer financing?

Yes, The Stone Shop offers two financing options for any order that includes Cambria Quartz. Learn more about our Cambria Financing options.

How do I prepare for a Template/Measure?

To prepare for a Template/Measure, clear off any countertop for a clear line of sight to every wall, as the Project Engineer uses a laser to measure your walls. Kindly note, if you have a dog in the space, please notify us and/or consider keep the pet temporarily out of the space so that we can effectively measure your surfaces.

How do I prepare for Installation?

If you're preparing for an installation, it's important to make sure that your home is ready. Here are some tips:

1. Detach all plumbing, faucets, water lines and gas lines. This will prevent damage to your home and ensure that the installation goes smoothly.

2. Move appliances out of the way of the working zone: stove, refrigerator

3. Please have the driveway and walking path into your home clear of debris , ice & snow so that we can easily access our work area. If it's a cold day, please heat the install area 3 hours prior to The Stone Shop arriving so that the materials on the room can be warm enough for adhesives to set properly.

Do you do tiling for backsplashes?

Tiling for backsplashes is not something we do, but we are happy to install a beautiful full height stone backsplash that will give you a smooth finish from countertop to cabinet. It’s a dream to clean!

Do I need a plumber to detach my sink, gas stove, etc?

Yes, you need the help of a certified plumber to detach your sink, gas stove, etc. We are not certified plumbers.

What do I need to bring with me to start the quote process?

When you're ready to select the stone for your project, here is what you will need to bring with you to the showroom:

Paint chips, cabinet color and flooring color are all helpful in selecting the right stone for your space.

Additionally, measurements/layout of your space with sink and faucet selections will be needed to create an accurate quote.

Lastly, a Project Engineers will do an on-site visit of your home or site project for exact measurements after a quote is signed off on and a 50% deposit made.

Do I need an appointment before coming to the showroom?

No appointment is needed to visit The Stone Shop showroom. We are open from 8:30am-5pm Monday through Friday and welcome anyone to stop by at any time. If you prefer to set up an appointment, we will be happy to do so by calling us at (515) 257-6265

What kind of materials do you use?

Our stone products are carefully sourced from the finest quarries in the industry. We offer a large selection of natural stone—including granite, marble, limestone and quartzite —in colors and styles to suit any taste or budget.

For customers who want the luxurious appeal of a stone surface without sacrificing convenience, we offer high-performing manufactured stones such as Cambria Quartz, Vicostone Quartz, Dekton Porcelain, and Neolith Sintered Stone.

Do you subcontract any part of the process?

At The Stone Shop, we take pride in our hands-on approach to delivering superior stone products and services. For this reason, we do not subcontract any part of the process. We provide the highest level of support to each project, from helping clients design and select materials through expert fabrication and installation.

Sintered Stone Questions

What is Porcelain (sintered stone)?

Sintered stone is an engineered stone created through a process called sintering, resulting in a dense and durable material. It is scratch-resistant and has low porosity, making it ideal for countertops. It is also resistant to UV radiation, extreme temperatures, and chemical agents, making it suitable for outdoor use. Sintered stone is produced using sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing processes, making it a popular choice for those looking for environmentally friendly building materials for their countertops.

Is Dekton and Neolith a Sintered Stone?

Dekton and Neolith are both brands of ultra-compact surfaces or sintered stone countertops. They are fabricated by putting the raw materials found in porcelain, glass, and quartz under extreme pressure and heat to create an extremely durable material. Both brands are quite durable and provide the best user experience.

Why is this material a superior choice for countertops?

Dekton and Neolith surfaces are considered superior to standard porcelain or other natural materials used for countertops due to their increased durability. While Dekton and Neolith are made with the same raw materials as porcelain, they also include the raw materials used to create quartz and glass, which makes these surfaces even more durable than standard porcelain. The durability of Dekton and Neolith surfaces is due to a unique fabrication process called Sinterized Particle Technology, which creates an ultra-compact surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.