If your client is looking for the beauty and richness of
natural stone slabs, that simply can’t be captured by man-made building
materials. Keep reading to learn more about helping clients choose natural
stone slabs in the GTA for majestic countertops, flooring, or fireplaces.
Client Needs
With such a wide selection, it’s important to take the time
to find out as many details as you can. The obvious first step is deciding on a
colour. Your client may be trying to match the colour already present in the
room, or they may want a strong contrast to make a statement. Or maybe they
just want the same natural stone they saw in a magazine or at a friend’s house.
You should also find out how your client uses the room. For
example, someone who spends a lot of time cooking in the kitchen may not want a
marble countertop because of its porous nature and the frequent resealing that
will be needed for heavy use. On the other hand, a frequent baker may enjoy how
cool the stone is. It’s your job to make recommendations based on your client’s
needs.
Types of Stone
Many clients arrive determined to have the unique beauty of
marble or
soapstone, but they may be dismayed by the price. Remind them
that marble is rare and the rarer their choice of this gorgeous stone, the
higher the price per square foot. There’s nothing quite like marble’s distinct
veining or bold patterns. Although it makes for a striking material in the
kitchen, remind your client that marble is porous and will stain. If they’re
fond of wine, fruit juice and other acidic foods and drinks, they may want to
skip marble. Even quick spills from acidic liquids can pit their marble
forever. Suggest other uses for marble, like around the fireplace and mantle,
or for columns and walkways. If your clients have part of their natural stone
slabs leftover after installation, there are many furniture makers in the GTA
who can turn those slabs into stools, bench tops, trivets, and other accent
pieces for the room.
Granite is another prestigious natural stone that raises a
home’s value. It’s low maintenance and comes in a wide variety of colours. Show
your client how the graininess of
granite adds depth to each piece, bringing out even more of the stone’s natural beauty.
As a bonus in the kitchen, granite resists heat and only needs to be resealed
every two years.
Installation
GTA fabricators may find they have clients coming straight
to them, determined to install their natural stone slabs themselves. It’s
important to make it clear that saving money now on installation may cost
do-it-yourselfers down the road. Some manufacturers will even void the warranty
if trained and certified professionals don’t install their countertops. Given
how long natural stone lasts, the initial cost of installation is well worth
it.
Natural stone slabs are a great choice for homeowners across
the GTA who are looking for the natural, unmatchable beauty that they can use
to increase their home’s value.