Frequently Asked Questions

Solid Surface Questions

Are Stonehouse vanity tops really as durable as other solid surface vanity tops?
If I have a unique size or shape vanity top, will it cost a lot more?
How long will it take to get my vanity top?
How do I maintain my Stonehouse vanity top?
What is the warranty on a Stonehouse vanity top?
Can I use a drop-in style bowl with a Stonehouse vanity top?
Can I use an under-mount style bowl with a Stonehouse vanity top?
Can I have a Stonehouse vanity top made to fit an existing drop-in bowl/vessel that I have or plan to purchase?
Can I order a vanity top without a bowl?
What is the difference between a one-piece and drop-in bowl?
What is the difference between granite colors and ultra granite colors?
How stain-resistant is a Stonehouse vanity top?
Who is Stonehouse Building Products?
What other industries utilizes this state-of-the-art composite mix for product manufacturing?
Is a Stonehouse vanity top really an easy to install?
Are end splashes integral?
How do I order a repair kit?
Can I order a top that is a fraction?
Can I order a top that is out of square?
If I need to cut or trim my top, what can I use to cut it?
Can you use plumbers putty for the drain?
Can I get a loose backsplash?

Granite Questions

Are Stonehouse vanity tops really as durable as other solid surface vanity tops?
If I have a unique size or shape vanity top, will it cost a lot more?
How long will it take to get my vanity top?
How do I maintain my Stonehouse vanity top?
What is the warranty on a Stonehouse vanity top?
Can I use a drop-in style bowl with a Stonehouse vanity top?
Can I use an under-mount style bowl with a Stonehouse vanity top?
Can I have a Stonehouse vanity top made to fit an existing drop-in bowl/vessel that I have or plan to purchase?
Can I order a vanity top without a bowl?
What is the difference between a one-piece and drop-in bowl?
What is the difference between granite colors and ultra granite colors?
How stain-resistant is a Stonehouse vanity top?
Who is Stonehouse Building Products?
What other industries utilizes this state-of-the-art composite mix for product manufacturing?
Is a Stonehouse vanity top really an easy to install?
Are end splashes integral?
How do I order a repair kit?
Can I order a top that is a fraction?
Can I order a top that is out of square?
If I need to cut or trim my top, what can I use to cut it?
Can you use plumbers putty for the drain?
Can I get a loose backsplash?


Are Stonehouse vanity tops really as durable as other solid surface vanity tops?


Yes. The innovative manufacturing process results in an approximately a 1/8" solid surface layer fused to an advanced composite material resulting in a top that has all the benefits of premium solid surface materials - impact resistant; renewable/repairable; non-porous and easy to maintain.


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If I have a unique size or shape vanity top, will it cost a lot more?


Our vanity tops are all custom and made to order at an affordable price. Special sizes do cost a little more (additional angles, curves, etc.), but are still affordable.


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How long will it take to get my vanity top?


If you order a standard size (see Quick Ship) your order will ship 7 days after the order is approved. If you order a custom shape (or special color combination) your order will ship 21 days after the order is approved. See How To Order for details on what is a Quick Ship and Custom product.


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How do I maintain my Stonehouse vanity top?


GLOSS FINISH
For regular cleaning use any non-abrasive bathroom cleaner, liquid detergent, or foam cleaner (e.g., Lysol Kitchen & Bath Cleaner®, 409®, etc.). Vanity tops with a gloss finish may be periodically polished with Gel Gloss® or equivalent to maintain shine.

For stubborn spots, stains and minor scratches - clean the area with an abrasive cleaner or #600 sandpaper, apply 3M 06031 rubbing compound (or equivalent) and hand rub. Next, buff your top with a 3M #05991 polishing compound (or equivalent) to restore the gloss finish.

MATTE FINISH
Clean the area with an abrasive cleaner or #600 sandpaper. Next, buff your top with a 3M #07448 gray scuff pad (or equivalent).

If you have any questions about the care of your new Stonehouse vanity top - call our customer service department at 859-980-1040 and they will be happy to help you.


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What is the warranty on a Stonehouse vanity top?


Our product is backed by a limited lifetime warranty which provides peace of mind knowing that you are getting a quality product made to last.


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Can I use a drop-in style bowl with a Stonehouse vanity top?


Yes - If there is a vessel or drop-in bowl style you have your heart set on, we can configure your vanity top to accommodate it. Stonehouse also offers three drop-in bowl styles of our own which can be installed in your new or existing vanity top.


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Can I use an under-mount style bowl with a Stonehouse vanity top?


No - We do not currently support under-mount bowls.


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Can I have a Stonehouse vanity top made to fit an existing drop-in bowl/vessel that I have or plan to purchase?


Yes - our vanity tops can be configured to fit almost any bowl or vessel that you want to use.


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Can I order a vanity top without a bowl?


Yes. Stonehouse tops are a great product for laundry rooms, craft rooms and other areas where you may be considering another counter top material.


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What is the difference between a one-piece and drop-in bowl?


A one-piece bowl is a continuous, integral part of the vanity top - there are no seams or edges.

Drop-in bowls are placed in a hole that is cut out of the vanity top. Caulk is placed around the perimeter of the bowl to create a seal.


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What is the difference between granite colors and ultra granite colors?


Our ultra granite colors contain larger flecks of solid surface material. The different shades of flecks are more noticeable than our medium and fine granite s, therefore creating a style that mimics the look of real granite.


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How stain-resistant is a Stonehouse vanity top?


Stonehouse vanity tops are non-porous which means they are impervious to moisture and staining. Fingernail polish, makeup, and other bathroom items simply wipe off the surface. If something does leave a stain on the top - it can be gently sanded away in no time.


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Who is Stonehouse Building Products?


Stonehouse Building Products manufacturers Stonehouse vanity tops which are sold nationwide at various home centers and dealers. Based in the greater Cincinnati area, we have been an innovative leader of vanity tops since 1997. In the Fall of 2004, we moved to a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility with automated production to meet additional demand for our vanity tops. With two manufacturer facilities to meet our customers' needs, we are able to supply you with the highest quality products in a lead time that is much faster than many other solid surfaces vanity top options. We have spent over 15 years developing our proprietary ceramic composite mix to insure it will meet the needs of our customers.


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What other industries utilizes this state-of-the-art composite mix for product manufacturing?


Aerospace and automotive.


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Is a Stonehouse vanity top really an easy to install?


Yes - first, it is durable and lightweight which allows you to get the top home from the store easily. A Stonehouse vanity top weighs 65% less than a cultured marble top. No special tools are required to install your top (see How To Install). Other solid surface vanity tops require a trained installer to cut and fit your top into place. If you do not want to install the vanity top yourself, you can contact a local handyman or plumber.


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Are end splashes integral?


No.


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How do I order a repair kit?


Contact us by e-mail or call 1-859-980-1040.


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Can I order a top that is a fraction?


Yes. Minimal dimensional increment is 1/8".


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Can I order a top that is out of square?


Yes.


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If I need to cut or trim my top, what can I use to cut it?


Stonehouse tops can be cut or altered using common hand tools used for cutting wood. For best results use a masonry blade or grit blade.


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Can you use plumbers putty for the drain?


Yes.


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Can I get a loose backsplash?


Yes.


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What is Granite?


Granite is a natural stone that is found and mined all over the world. Because Granite is a natural occurring stone and not a man made product, pattern and color variation could occur from one slab to another. Please look at the brochures, color chip samples and other Stonehouse literature for photographic representation of our available colors. But being a natural stone, all granite is different. This is the beauty of granite! No two granite tops look alike, allowing for a completely unique and custom look!


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Is it normal for a granite top to have small pits or feel rough to the touch?


Yes, granite is a natural stone and may have small pits or feel rough to the touch, this is not a defect. We recommend you periodically seal your granite top (once a year) to help maintain a smooth top and help to fill in any pits.


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What sizes can I get a Stonehouse Granite Top?


Stonehouse Granite is available in our CUSTOM program in lengths from 25” to 97” in 1/8” increments. The depth of the top is 22 ¼”. Depths other than 22 ¼” fall under our CUSTOM + program and the dimensions must be faxed to our Customer Service Department for quoting.


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How many colors are available?


Stonehouse offers 13 Granite and 3 Marble choices in 3 different price levels. Stonehouse vanity tops are custom made for each customer.


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What comes standard with a Stonehouse Granite Top?


Each Stonehouse CUSTOM Granite Top comes standard with the following: • Vanity top Custom made to your length x 22 ¼” deep x 2cm (3/4”) thick • One Set-on/Loose Backsplash 4” high • One Set-on/Loose Side Splash 4” high • One under mount 17” x 14” vitreous china bowl-your choice of white or biscuit color • Your choice of 4” Center Cut, 8” Straight, 8” Contour or Single Faucet Drill hole


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What is the edge profile on the front of a Stonehouse Granite Top?


The front edge of a Stonehouse CUSTOM Granite Top comes standard with a decorative “Ogee” front. The Ogee edge profile is also fabricated around the bowl.


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What is the edge profile on the sides of a Stonehouse Granite Top?


The side edge profile of a Stonehouse Granite Top is “flat”.


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Will the side edge be polished?


The side edge of a Stonehouse Granite Top will be polished if you did not order a side splash for that side. Example: Ordered a top with a left side splash. In this situation, the right side will be polished. Ordered a top with a right side splash. In this situation, the left side will be polished. Ordered a top with both side splashes. In this situation, NEITHER side will be polished. Ordered a top with no side splashes. In this situation, BOTH sides will be polished.


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Can I get the decorative ogee profile fabricated on the sides?


Yes, however this option requires the top to be quoted (our CUSTOM + Program) and will increase the price and lead time. Fax over your request using the Stonehouse CUSTOM + order form and indicate the size of the top and the side for the ogee edge profile.


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Can I get a Double Bowl with a Stonehouse Granite Top?


Yes, however we can only fit a second bowl in tops with a length greater than 48”


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What is the minimum distance from the edge a bowl can be placed on a Stonehouse Granite Top?


The minimum distance from the edge is 12 ½”.


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Can the bowl be offset (not centered) with a Stonehouse Granite Top?


Yes. Our CUSTOM program allows you to place the bowl wherever you want within the top as long as you have allotted for the minimum distance from the edge.


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Does the bowl come with an overflow?


Yes. The vitreous china bowl is manufactured automatically with an overflow.


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Can I get a special design (rounded corners, bump outs, etc) with a Stonehouse Granite Top?


Special designs require verification that we can indeed fabricate the top to your specifications. Please draw out your design providing as much detail as possible and fax it to Stonehouse Customer Service at 859-980-1041.


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Can I use a drop-in bowl or other manufacturers under mount bowl with Stonehouse Granite Tops?


Yes, however this would move your order to our CUSTOM + program which requires quoting. Additionally, we will need a template and all the hardware required for this special bowl in order to complete the quote and or the fabrication of the top.


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What is the lead time for a Stonehouse Granite Top?


The lead time for a Stonehouse CUSTOM program Granite top is 14 days from the date of order confirmation to the date the product ships. Delivery to your store will vary from 7-10 additional days depending upon the how far you are located from our fabricators. Please remember to inspect all Stonehouse Vanity Tops including granite, within 48 hours of receipt.


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How fragile are the Stonehouse Granite Vanity Tops?


While Granite is a stone mined from the earth, Granite can chip or break. Marble tops are more brittle than granite and require even more care when carrying and installing.


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Can granite chip or break?


Granite will chip or break if it receives a blow from a heavy object such as hammer or tools.


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Are there any special handling instructions when installing a Stonehouse Granite Vanity Top?


Yes. To begin with, Granite is about 50% heavier than a Stonehouse Solid Surface Top. Therefore, most tops will require at least two people using proper lifting techniques. In addition, when carrying the tops to the bathroom, keep the top in a vertical position until you are ready to position the top on the cabinet. A third set of hands would be helpful on larger tops to provide support in the middle.


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How is the under mount bowl attached on a Stonehouse Granite Top?


The under mount bowl is attached using silicone and screws and tabs. The silicone is used to give a good seal and prevent water from leaking out between the underneath side of the top and the bowl.


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Will granite stain?


Granite is a semi-porous stone. In the fabrication process, a sealant is added to the surface to seal the pores and help reduce staining. With wear and cleaning the sealant will break down and needs to be re-applied every year.


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Is granite affected by heat?


Granite will not be affected by the heat created by items typically used in a bathroom such as a curling iron.


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What products can be used to clean granite?


Any liquid or powder soap that is phosphate free and biodegradable can be used to clean your granite vanity top.


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