Frequently Asked Questions

What is natural quartz?

Quartz is one of the hardest, most abundant minerals found in nature — only diamond, sapphire and topaz are harder. Besides beauty, the quartz in Silestone gives it extreme strength, making Silestone highly scratch-resistant.

What kind of information do you need for a quote?

You will need:

Layout with measurements  
Sink style (under or top mount) 
Stove type 
Backsplash  
Exposed edges 
Location 
Supply and installation, Supply only, APD…

What is the price per square foot?

We do not price per square foot. Our quotes factor in only the material and services required for the job. We do this to provide you with the most accurate pricing possible.

Do you remove and dispose of existing countertops?

We can remove and/ or dispose existing laminate countertops at an additional fee. Please indicate that you would like this service on your quote request

Can I get a cutting board from the sink cutout?

You can have the cutting board but will be charged $150 to hand polish your cutout. There is also no guarantee that the sink cutout piece will not break during the manufacturing process.

How long is it from when I place the order until template?

It will be the first available appointment. This may take anywhere as little as 1 business day to more than 3 business days, depending on location and available Latitude CAD Technicians.

How long is it from template to installation?

We guarantee an installation in 8 business days. This may change if there are issues arising from template.

Where can I get samples?

Do I have to remove my countertops for template?

No you don’t. LATITUDE uses digital plotters that create computerized templates of your space. You will need to clear everything off the countertop including appliances, dishes and clutter.

Do I have to remove my countertops for Installation?

Yes you do. LATITUDE will remove and/or dispose of the countertop with a fee. If this is the option that you would like, please indicate on your quote request.

Does LATITUDE disconnect/reconnect plumbing?

No. LATITUDE installers are not licensed plumbers. In the case of undermount sinks, plumbing should only be hooked up after 24 hours from installation. Hooking up the plumbing too early may shift the sink.

Does LATITUDE disconnect/reconnect gas lines?

LATITUDE does not disconnect or reconnect gas lines. A certified gas fitter commissioned by the customer will do this.
Can LATITUDE install new countertop over existing countertop?
LATITUDE countertops are custom made for you and can only replace your existing countertop.

What is the difference between Granite/Natural Stone and Quartz Countertops?

Granite/natural stone slabs are cut directly from the earth, polished and fabricated into your countertop. Quartz surfaces are created by grinding quartz pieces into a fine powder, add colours, glass, aggregates etc. and bound together with resins.

What is the difference between all the quartz products?

All quartz products are manufactured in the same way and contain approximately 93%. How they differ is within the 7% of resin, glass, aggregates, etc. Silestone is the only surface with Microban embedded in the material itself. Microban inhibits the growth of bacteria and viruses on the surface of the countertop.

Can I stand on my countertop?

We do not recommend standing or sitting on the countertop for safety reasons. The surface may be slippery and accidents can happen

Can I put hot things on my countertop?

For natural stone and quartz: Although both are highly resistant to heat, there is a possibility that it can suffer thermal shock. Thermal shock is when a hot object is placed on a cold surface, and the surface cracks. This may not happen all the time or right away. Caution should always be used when handling hot items and trivets used when placing hot items on the surface.

How do I prepare for the template?

Clear any indoor/outdoor obstacles such as snow, ice, furniture, etc. in the path of the CAD Technologist and their equipment
Make arrangements to be present for the entire appointment
remove children or pets from the site vicinity
Permanently secure and level cabinets, gables and fillers.
Clean and remove clutter from the template areas
Make sure that all sinks, appliances or their specifications are on site

How do I prepare for the installation?

Clear any indoor/outdoor obstacles such as snow, ice, furniture, etc. which may impede delivery
Make arrangements to be present for the entire appointment
remove children or pets from the site vicinity
Ensure that all sinks, appliances and fixtures are onsite
Remove existing countertops before the installation appointment
Ensure that all cabinetry is level and can support the weight of the new surface material
Remove any clutter from the install area and empty all base cabinets
Protect floors with non slip coverings; cover items to protect from dust and installation debris
Close any registers and return conduits to prevent dust from entering the ventilation system

What do I do if there is a problem with my countertop?

Call our Quality Assurance department at 416 638 8586 x225. We will try to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

What is a template?

A template is a pattern or a representative of the countertop to be fabricated. At LATITUDE, our templates are created digitally. Digital templates allows for extremely accurate measurements. It also does not require the countertop to be removed at time of template in most cases.

What is an installation?

An installation is when our team of installers arrive at your home to install your new countertop. They will affix the countertop surface to the cabinets and drill holes for the faucets. If you have an undermount sink, the installer will secure the sink to the countertop. Please wait at least 24 hours before reattaching the plumbing. The sink may shift if the plumbing is reattached earlier than that.

Do I have to reserve my slab?

It is highly recommended that you reserve any natural stone slabs. All natural stone slabs are unique and beautiful in their own way. If you would like to waive your right to select your slab, you must do so in writing.

What is the price per linear foot?

We do not price per linear foot. Our quotes factor in only the material and services required for the job. We do this to provide you with the most accurate pricing possible.

Do you sell sinks?

Yes we do. We offer the complete line of Blanco, Kindred and Franke sinks. Please click here to see the selection.

Do you sell faucets?

Yes we do. We offer the complete line of Blanco faucets.

Does LATITUDE move appliances?

No, all appliances must be moved from the working area. Templators and Installers cannot do this for you.

Do quartz countertops chip?

Yes, they can chip and chipping is not covered under warranty

What are the advantages Quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops made of a dense, non-porous stone that delivers unsurpassed reliability and performance — scratch-resistance and stain-resistance with no sealing required in a large variety of naturally beautiful colours.

How does Quartz compare to other natural stones, like granite?

Quartz offers more color consistency than granite, making it easier to pick colors from samples without having to visit a stone yard. Plus, Quartz is virtually maintenance-free — it doesn’t need to be sealed and cleaning is a cinch.

How does Quartz compare to solid surfaces, like Corian®?

Quartz is 100% natural; a hard mineral that gives quartz countertops both beauty and strength. Solid surfaces are plastic polymers that lack the brilliance and reflectivity of natural stone, and are softer — making them more susceptible to scorches and scratches.

Can I use Quartz countertops in my kitchen?

Yes. Quartz countertops are ideal for use in kitchen countertops, island tops, backsplashes, and more.

Can I use Quartz countertops in my bathroom?

Yes. Add beauty and practicality to any bathroom with quartz vanities, backsplashes, shower walls and tub surrounds.

What benefit do I get from Silestone with antimicrobial protection?

Antimicrobial protection continuously fights the growth of microbes that can cause stains and odors. Antimicrobial protection makes your Silestone countertops easier to clean and keeps them cleaner between cleanings.

How is Antimicrobial protection effective?

Antimicrobial protection is effective against most common bacteria, yeasts, molds and fungi that cause stains and odors. Microban technology is not designed to protect users from disease-causing microorganisms.

Is Antimicrobial protection safe?

Antimicrobial technology has undergone extensive independent laboratory testing. It is registered with the EPA for use in Silestone and has a long history of safe use.

How long does antimicrobial protection last in Silestone?

Antimicrobial protection is built-in during the manufacturing process — becoming part of the molecular structure of Silestone and will not wash off or wear away.

Can I get antimicrobial put into Silestone if it is already installed in my home?

No. Antimicrobial protection can only be integrated into the product during the manufacturing process.

Do I still have to clean my Silestone countertop with Antimicrobial protection?

Yes. Antmicrobial protection inhibits growth of bacteria, but cannot replace the need for good and regular hygiene practices.

What is the most popular application for marble?

A bathroom vanity is the most popular application for marble. Marble is ideal for use in bathrooms as vanities, splashes, tub surrounds, shower walls, window ledges, and thresholds.

Is Marble the same as Granite?

No, absolutely not.

Marble is crystallized, metamorphic rock. Although dense, marble is a delicate, soft material that is very porous.

Granite is a dense composite of course-grained igneous rock, feldspar, mica, and at least 20% quartz (and sometimes other minerals and fossil). The composition of Granite therefore, makes it more dense and durable. In relation to Marble, Granite has tighter pours.

What is Staron made of?

Staron is composed of acrylic resin and aluminum tri-hydrate. Pigments and stabilizers are also added in.

Will repairing or refinishing Staron reveal a different color underneath that won’t match the rest of the countertop?

Staron solid surface is homogenous. In other words, it’s the same color and the same material through and through. That’s why repairing scratches is so easy and why the surface will continue to look like new.

What’s the best way to clean Staron on a day-to-day basis?

Just use soap and water and wipe clean. Ammonia-based cleansers such as glass cleaner are also a great way to give the surface a non-streak shine.

Do some colors last longer than others?

Not necessarily, though light colors show wear less visibly and require less frequent maintenance. Any Staron color should provide many, many years of dependable service.

After I buffed out a scratch or stain with a light-duty scrubbing pad, the area is duller than the rest of the countertop. What should I do?

The finer the grit of cleaner or scrubber you use, the higher the gloss. For the highest gloss finishes, use a finer grit such as a white polishing compound with water and try to blend it with the rest of the countertop. Buff and dry with a smooth cloth.

Can I add a Staron sink or bowl to my existing Staron countertop?

It is possible, but depends on the style of sink and the details of the existing installation. Check with your local fabricator.

Do I need to choose a sink and faucet before my countertop is installed?

Though there are some common fixture sizes, we highly recommend choosing the sink and faucet before your custom countertop is created by a fabricator.

While preparing meals, can I place raw vegetables and meats on Staron?

Yes. Because Staron is nonporous, germs and bacteria have nowhere to accumulate. Clean the surface before food preparation. Do not allow other food to come into contact with a surface where raw meat has been placed until the surface is thoroughly cleaned, preferably with a weak bleach solution.

A small piece of Staron was left for me to use as a cutting board. But I’ve heard I shouldn’t cut on Staron. Can I use the board?

As a separate piece, Staron makes a great cutting board. However, cutting leaves small scratches on the board that you absolutely wouldn’t want on your countertop.

What finishes are available in Staron countertops?

Latitude provides a standard semi-gloss finish.

I’ve read that hot pans can scorch Solid-surface materials. What can I do to prevent heat damage?

Staron is heat-resistant and will remain stable and undamaged up to 212 degrees F. However, high heat or flame can damage the surface. In most cases it can be repaired. To protect the countertop, always use a heat pad or trivet. You can also request heat rails near a stove where hot pans can be placed without worry.

What is the advantage of Staron over Granite?

If granite is not sealed regularly, it can become stained and harbor bacteria, viruses and mold. Seams in granite are also difficult to keep clean. Staron is nonporous with smooth, impenetrable seams. It is more impact-resistant than granite, and custom designs are easier to fabricate. Unlike granite, Staron is also repairable and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

What is the advantage of Staron over laminates?

Laminates separate over time if moisture seeps in. Staron is solid and homogenous, and moisture cannot penetrate it. Unlike laminates, Staron is repairable and comes with a longer (10-year limited) warranty.

What is the advantage of Staron over tile?

Tile has many seams where bacteria, viruses and mold can accumulate. Grout between tiles must be cleaned frequently and often cracks. Staron has smooth, impenetrable seams, is more impact-resistant than tile, and offers many more edge treatments. Unlike tile, Staron is repairable and comes with a longer (10-year limited) warranty.