Questions?
We Have Answers.
Everything you need to know about working with Diamond Stoneworks, our process, our materials, and what to expect from start to finish.
Questions for Diamond Stoneworks
General
Countertop fabrication is the process of transforming a raw slab of stone or engineered material into a finished countertop custom-fit for your space. It involves measuring, cutting, shaping, edge profiling, polishing, and sealing the material before installation. At Diamond Stoneworks, we handle the entire process in-house, from templating to final installation.
We are based in Raleigh, NC and primarily serve the Triangle area including Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Clayton, Apex, Morrisville, and Wake Forest. However we regularly travel across North Carolina for the right project, from the coast to the mountains. Give us a call and we'll let you know if we can make it work.
Yes. We work on commercial projects of all sizes including restaurants, office buildings, hospitals, apartment complexes, and more. No job is too large. Commercial clients receive the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail as our residential clients.
Simply reach out to us by phone, email, or through our website contact form. We'll talk through your project, answer your questions, and set up a free estimate. You can also send over plans or measurements to get the process started remotely.
Materials
We work with all natural and engineered stones on the market including Granite, Marble, Quartzite, Quartz, Dekton, Porcelain, Soapstone, Onyx, Travertine, Limestone, and many more. If you have a specific material in mind, just ask. No material is off limits.
Granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth, meaning every slab is completely unique. It is extremely durable and heat resistant but is porous and requires periodic sealing. Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz crystals and resin. It is non-porous, requires no sealing, and is very consistent in color and pattern. Both are excellent choices depending on your lifestyle and aesthetic preference.
Yes, and this is one of the things that sets us apart. Dekton and porcelain are complex sintered materials that many fabricators refuse to work with due to the specialized tools and expertise required. We specialize in both and have extensive experience fabricating and installing these premium surfaces.
Yes. If you have already selected and purchased your slab from a supplier, we can absolutely work with material you provide. We can also direct you to our trusted supplier partners nearby if you would like guidance on selection before purchasing.
Process & Timeline
The timeline varies depending on the scope of the project and material availability. In general, once your estimate is approved and your material is selected, we schedule a templating visit. Installation typically follows about one week after templating. We will always give you a clear timeline upfront so you can plan accordingly.
Yes, we strongly ask that you or a representative be present during the templating visit. This allows our team to ask any questions, confirm design decisions like edge profiles and sink cutout placement, and ensure every detail is captured accurately before we begin fabrication.
Typically about one week. Once we have your precise template, our fabricators get to work cutting, shaping, and finishing your countertops in our facility. We then schedule your installation as soon as the pieces are ready and approved.
Yes. We handle the removal of existing countertops as part of the installation process. Our team works carefully to protect your cabinetry and surrounding surfaces during removal. Just let us know upfront so we can plan accordingly.
Pricing
Pricing varies depending on the material you choose, the size of your project, the edge profile, and any custom cutouts or details. Natural stones like marble and quartzite tend to be priced higher than engineered options like quartz. The best way to get an accurate number is to reach out for a free estimate, which we are always happy to provide.
Yes, always. We provide free detailed estimates for every project. You can submit plans or measurements online or we can arrange a free on-site visit for more complex projects. There is no obligation and no pressure.
A 50% deposit is collected at the time of estimate approval or templating, whichever comes first. Once your deposit is received, we purchase your materials and submit your project for fabrication. You will then receive your confirmed installation date. The remaining balance is collected upon completion, and we do not collect final payment until you are 100% satisfied with the finished installation.
Your 50% deposit secures your project in our schedule and covers the cost of purchasing your materials. Nothing moves forward until the deposit is received, which is how we ensure your selected slab is reserved and fabrication begins on time. The remaining 50% is due upon your satisfaction at installation.
Care & Maintenance
For most stone surfaces, daily cleaning with a mild soap and warm water is all you need. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice, especially on marble and limestone. Use cutting boards and trivets to protect the surface from scratches and heat. We will give you specific care instructions for your material at the time of installation.
Yes, most natural stones like granite, marble, quartzite, and soapstone are porous and benefit from periodic sealing to protect against stains and moisture. Engineered stones like quartz and sintered surfaces like Dekton and porcelain are non-porous and do not require sealing. We will advise you on the right maintenance schedule for your specific material.
Our guarantee is simple. We do not collect final payment until you are completely satisfied with the finished installation. If something is not right, we will make it right before we close out the job. This applies to every project we take on, residential or commercial, large or small.
Business Info
We are located at 5311 Raynor Rd Garner, NC 27529. Our warehouse is open for visits by appointment. You are welcome to come see our in-stock materials and remnant pieces in person.
Yes. You can visit our warehouse to browse our in-stock materials and remnant pieces. We also work with trusted supplier partners nearby where you can see a wider selection of slabs. Give us a call and we will set up a time that works for you.
Our regular hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 3:00pm. All other times are by appointment only. Give us a call or send us a message and we are happy to arrange a time that works for your schedule.
Yes. While we are based in Raleigh and primarily serve the Triangle, we regularly travel across North Carolina for the right project. We have completed work from the coast to the mountains. Reach out and we will let you know if we can accommodate your location.
Yes. Diamond Stoneworks is fully licensed and insured. We are happy to provide documentation upon request. Your project and your property are protected when you work with us.
Absolutely. We work with interior designers, custom builders, remodelers, and general contractors regularly. We understand the demands of trade professionals and are committed to clear communication, on-time performance, and quality work that reflects well on everyone involved.
Material FAQs
Click any material to explore frequently asked questions specific to that stone.
Is granite heat resistant?
Yes. Granite is one of the most heat-resistant countertop materials available. However, we still recommend using trivets to protect your surface from thermal shock over time.
Does granite need to be sealed?
Yes. Granite is a natural porous stone and should be sealed periodically, typically once a year, to protect it from stains and moisture. We seal your countertops at installation and advise on ongoing maintenance.
Will my granite countertop look exactly like the slab I selected?
Yes. With natural stone, what you select is what you get. Every granite slab is unique. We encourage you to view and select your actual slab before fabrication begins so there are no surprises.
Can granite crack?
Granite is extremely durable but like any stone can crack under severe impact or stress. Proper installation with adequate support dramatically reduces this risk. We ensure every installation is properly supported and executed.
Is marble a good choice for kitchens?
Marble is a beautiful choice but requires more care than granite or quartz. It is softer and more porous, making it susceptible to etching from acidic substances. It is an excellent choice for low-traffic kitchens, baking stations, or bathrooms where its elegance can shine without heavy daily abuse.
What is etching on marble?
Etching is a chemical reaction that occurs when acidic substances like lemon juice, wine, or vinegar come in contact with marble. It leaves a dull mark on the surface. Using cutting boards and wiping spills immediately helps prevent etching.
Does marble need to be sealed?
Yes. Marble is porous and should be sealed regularly to help protect against staining. Sealing does not prevent etching but does help with liquid absorption. We seal marble at installation and will advise on maintenance intervals.
Does marble scratch easily?
Marble is softer than granite and can scratch with heavy use. Using cutting boards and avoiding dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface will help maintain its appearance over time.
Is quartz the same as quartzite?
No. Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz crystals and resin. Quartzite is a natural metamorphic stone. They look similar but have different properties, maintenance requirements, and price points.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Quartz is non-porous and does not require sealing, which is one of its biggest advantages over natural stone. Simple cleaning with mild soap and water is all that is needed.
Is quartz heat resistant?
Quartz is not as heat resistant as granite. The resin used in its manufacturing can discolor or crack under direct high heat. Always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pans on a quartz surface.
Can quartz be used outdoors?
Generally no. Most quartz products are not recommended for outdoor use because UV exposure can cause discoloration and fading over time. For outdoor applications, we recommend Dekton or porcelain, both of which are UV resistant.
What are the pros of quartzite?
Quartzite is a natural stone that is harder and more durable than marble, making it a better choice for high-traffic areas. It has the visual beauty of marble with the strength closer to granite. It is heat resistant and, when properly sealed, can resist staining. It is a truly premium material that adds significant value and elegance to any space.
What are the cons of quartzite?
Quartzite is one of the more expensive countertop options due to its rarity and the difficulty of fabricating it. It is porous and requires regular sealing. It can also be heavy, which may require additional cabinet support in some cases.
How is quartzite different from quartz?
Quartzite is a natural stone formed from sandstone under intense heat and pressure. Quartz is an engineered product made in a factory. Quartzite requires more maintenance but many homeowners prefer its natural, unique appearance over the uniform look of engineered quartz.
Does quartzite need to be sealed?
Yes. Quartzite is porous and should be sealed regularly to protect against staining and moisture. The frequency depends on the porosity of your specific slab. We advise on the right sealing schedule at installation.
What is Dekton?
Dekton is an ultra-compact sintered surface manufactured by Cosentino. It is created by applying extreme heat and pressure to a blend of raw materials used in glass, porcelain, and quartz surfaces. The result is an incredibly dense, durable surface with near-zero porosity.
Why don't most fabricators work with Dekton?
Dekton is extremely hard and brittle, which makes it challenging to cut, shape, and install without cracking. It requires specialized diamond-tipped tooling, experienced handlers, and precise technique. We have the equipment and expertise to work with it confidently.
Is Dekton good for outdoor use?
Yes. Dekton is one of the best countertop materials for outdoor applications. It is UV resistant, does not fade, and can withstand extreme temperature changes, making it ideal for outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas.
Does Dekton need to be sealed?
No. Dekton is non-porous and does not require sealing. It is also highly stain, scratch, and heat resistant, making it one of the most low-maintenance surfaces available.
What makes porcelain a specialty material?
Large format porcelain slabs are thin, dense, and extremely hard, which makes them prone to cracking during cutting and installation if not handled correctly. They require specialized blades, careful handling, and experienced fabricators. Most shops avoid it. We specialize in it.
Is porcelain durable enough for countertops?
Yes. Modern porcelain slabs are incredibly durable, scratch resistant, stain resistant, and heat resistant. They are an excellent choice for high-use kitchen surfaces and are increasingly popular for their ability to mimic the look of marble or concrete without the maintenance requirements.
Does porcelain need to be sealed?
No. Porcelain is non-porous and does not require sealing. It is one of the most low-maintenance countertop materials available.
Can porcelain be used outdoors?
Yes. Porcelain is UV resistant and handles temperature changes well, making it an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens and covered outdoor spaces.
We'd Love to Hear From You.
Reach out and one of our team members will get back to you promptly. No pressure, no obligation.