FAQs

Got questions? Read through our list of questions and answers to find what you are looking for.

FAQs

1. What types of stone do you specialize in?

We specialize in high-quality stone materials that combine beauty and durability:
– Granite – Known for its strength, heat resistance, and unique natural patterns.
– Quartz – Engineered for consistency, non-porous, and low-maintenance.
– Quartzite – A natural stone offering the elegance of marble with superior durability.

These materials are ideal for countertops, vanities, and other surface applications.

2. What are the differences between various types of stone?

Natural stones used for countertops vary in appearance, durability, and maintenance needs. Here are the key types we offer:
– Granite: Extremely durable and heat-resistant. Each slab is unique with natural patterns and colors.
– Quartzite: A natural stone that’s harder than granite with elegant aesthetics. Requires sealing but offers high durability.
– Quartz (engineered stone): Made from natural quartz combined with resin. Non-porous, stain-resistant, and available in a wide range of consistent patterns.

3. How should I care for my stone countertop?

Proper care can extend the life and beauty of your stone countertop:
– Daily Cleaning: Use a pH-neutral cleaner or mild dish soap with warm water. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners.
– Avoid Damage: Always use cutting boards. Don’t place hot pots or pans directly on the surface—use trivets or hot pads.
– Wipe Spills Quickly: Especially for acidic substances (wine, vinegar, citrus), as they can etch or stain some stones.

4. Do stone countertops need to be sealed?

Yes—most natural stones require sealing, although the frequency and type of sealant vary:
– Granite and Quartzite: Should be sealed once a year or as needed (test with a water drop: if it darkens, resealing is required).
– Quartz: Does not require sealing, as it is non-porous.

5. Will my countertop have visible seams?

Sometimes seams are necessary, especially for large or complex layouts:
– Seam Placement: We carefully plan seam placement for minimal visual impact and structural support.
– Seam Visibility: While seams are visible upon close inspection, we color-match epoxy to blend with the stone.

6. What kind of warranty do you offer?

See our Warranty Policy below.

7. What is the difference in natural stone finishes: Leathered, Honed, and Polished

The terms leathered, honed, and polished refer to the finish applied to the surface of natural stone. Each finish affects the stone’s appearance, texture, and maintenance requirements. Below is a comparison to help you choose the best option for your project.

1. Polished Finish

Appearance: High-gloss, shiny surface that reflects light.
Texture: Smooth and glassy.
Color Enhancement: Maximizes the stone’s color, pattern, and veining.
Maintenance: Easiest to clean but shows fingerprints, water spots, and scratches more easily.
Common Use: Kitchens, bathrooms, and areas where a luxurious look is desired.

2. Honed Finish

Appearance: Matte or satin-like with little to no reflection.
Texture: Smooth but not shiny; more velvety feel.
Color Enhancement: Slightly muted colors and patterns compared to polished.
Maintenance: More forgiving with scratches and etches, but may stain more easily if not properly sealed.
Common Use: Floors, bathrooms, and areas where slip resistance is preferred.

3. Leathered Finish

Appearance: Soft sheen with a more textured, rustic look.
Texture: Slightly bumpy or dimpled surface; retains the natural character of the stone.
Color Enhancement: Darkens the stone slightly and enhances natural movement.
Maintenance: Hides fingerprints, smudges, and water spots very well. Can be harder to clean because of texture but is typically sealed to resist stains.
Common Use: Kitchen countertops, fireplace surrounds, and accent walls.

8. Do we offer additional services?

Yes. Please see our services page for specifics.

Services

9. What does a countertop contractor do?

A countertop contractor measures, fabricates, and installs stone countertops for kitchens, bathrooms, and other surfaces. At Milliron Granite & Quartz, our team handles the entire process—from helping you select the perfect stone slab to precision fabrication and professional installation. Our skilled craftsmen ensure your countertops are cut, polished, and installed correctly for a flawless finish that lasts for years.

10. Who is the best countertop contractor in Sioux Falls?

Milliron Granite & Quartz is a trusted countertop contractor serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding region. Our team specializes in granite, quartz, and marble countertops, providing custom fabrication and expert installation for homeowners and builders. With years of experience and high-quality materials, we help transform kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces throughout Sioux Falls.

11. Do you offer countertop installation in Sioux Falls?

Yes. We provide professional countertop installation in Sioux Falls and nearby communities. Our installation process includes precise digital templating, in-house fabrication, and expert installation to ensure your new countertops fit perfectly and function beautifully in your home.

12. Do you provide countertop installation in the Black Hills?

Absolutely. Milliron Granite & Quartz serves customers throughout the Black Hills area, including Rapid City and surrounding communities. Our team provides custom fabrication and installation of granite, quartz, and other stone countertops with the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that has made us a trusted local contractor.

13. What types of countertops do you install?

We install a wide variety of stone countertops, including:

Granite countertops
Quartz countertops
Marble countertops
Quartzite and other natural stone surfaces

Each material offers unique benefits, from the natural beauty of granite to the low-maintenance durability of engineered quartz.

14. Are granite countertops a good choice for kitchens?

Granite countertops are one of the most popular options for kitchens because they are durable, heat resistant, and naturally beautiful. Granite is a dense natural stone that holds up well to daily use, and when properly sealed it resists stains and moisture. Many homeowners choose granite because each slab is unique and adds lasting value to their home.

15. What are the benefits of quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops are engineered using natural quartz minerals combined with resins to create a durable and non-porous surface. Because quartz is non-porous, it resists stains and bacteria and does not require sealing. Quartz is also extremely durable and available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it a popular choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms.

16. Do you offer marble countertops?

Yes. Milliron Granite & Quartz offers marble countertops along with granite and quartz options. Marble provides a classic, elegant look and is often chosen for bathroom vanities, kitchen islands, and statement surfaces where natural beauty is a priority.

17. How long does countertop installation take?

Most countertop installation projects take one day once the fabrication process is complete. The overall timeline depends on the size of the project and the material selected, but our team works efficiently to ensure your countertops are installed with minimal disruption to your home.

18. Where can I view stone countertops in Sioux Falls?

You can visit our Sioux Falls showroom to explore a wide selection of granite, quartz, marble, and other stone countertops. Our countertop experts can help you compare slabs, learn about different materials, and choose the best option for your kitchen or bathroom project.

19. Do you install countertops for new construction and remodeling projects?

Yes. Our countertop contractors work with homeowners, builders, and designers on both new construction and remodeling projects. Whether you are building a new home or upgrading your kitchen, we provide custom stone fabrication and professional installation to match your space and style.

20. Why choose stone countertops for your home?

Stone countertops such as granite, marble, and quartz offer long-lasting durability, timeless beauty, and increased home value. These materials are designed to withstand everyday use while providing a premium look that enhances kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor living spaces.

21. What are the most popular countertops in Sioux Falls homes?

Granite countertops and quartz countertops are the most popular choices for homeowners in Sioux Falls. Granite offers natural beauty and heat resistance, while quartz countertops provide a low-maintenance, non-porous surface that resists stains and bacteria. Both options are durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for busy kitchens and bathrooms.

22. What areas do your countertop contractors serve?

Milliron Granite & Quartz provides countertop installation in Sioux Falls, the Black Hills, Rapid City, and surrounding communities. With showrooms in Sioux Falls and Summerset, our countertop contractors work with homeowners and builders across South Dakota to deliver custom stone countertops.

23. Why hire a professional countertop contractor?

A professional countertop contractor ensures precise measurements, proper fabrication, and expert installation. This helps prevent issues such as uneven seams, poor fit around appliances, or long-term structural problems. Professional installation also ensures your countertops perform as intended and last for many years.

24. Are stone countertops a good investment for my home?

Yes. Granite, marble, and quartz countertops can significantly increase a home’s value and appeal. Natural stone countertops are durable, stylish, and highly desirable among homebuyers, making them a long-term investment for kitchens and bathrooms.

25. What makes granite countertops unique?

Every granite slab is naturally formed and completely unique, meaning no two countertops look exactly the same. Granite countertops offer exceptional durability, heat resistance, and timeless beauty that works well in both modern and traditional kitchens.

26. Are quartz countertops better than granite countertops?

Both quartz and granite countertops offer excellent durability. Granite is a natural stone known for its unique patterns and heat resistance, while quartz countertops are engineered to be non-porous and low maintenance. The best choice depends on your style preferences and maintenance expectations.

27. Do you install stone countertops in the Black Hills?

Yes. Our countertop contractors provide stone countertop installation throughout the Black Hills region, including Rapid City, Sturgis, and surrounding communities. Our Black Hills showroom in Summerset makes it easy to explore granite, quartz, and marble options locally.

28. How do I choose the right countertop material?

Choosing the right countertop material depends on your design style, maintenance preferences, and budget. Granite countertops are great for natural beauty, quartz countertops offer easy maintenance, and marble provides classic elegance for bathrooms and decorative surfaces.

29. Can stone countertops be used in bathrooms?

Yes. Granite, quartz, and marble countertops are commonly used in bathroom vanities because they are durable, moisture resistant, and easy to clean. Stone surfaces add a luxury look while standing up to daily use.

30. How durable are granite countertops?

Granite is one of the hardest natural stones used for countertops. It is highly resistant to scratches, heat, and everyday wear, making it an excellent choice for kitchens and high-traffic areas.

31. Are quartz countertops easy to maintain?

Yes. Quartz countertops are non-porous and do not require sealing. Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is typically all that is needed to maintain their appearance.

32. Do you offer custom stone countertops in Sioux Falls?

Yes. Milliron Granite & Quartz specializes in custom stone countertops in Sioux Falls. Each project includes precise measurements, custom fabrication, and professional installation tailored to your kitchen or bathroom layout.

33. Do stone countertops require maintenance?

Natural stone countertops like granite may require occasional resealing to maintain stain resistance. Routine cleaning and periodic maintenance help keep stone countertops looking their best for many years.

34. Can stone countertops be repaired if they are damaged?

Yes. Minor chips, seam issues, or surface damage can often be repaired by a professional countertop contractor. Services such as chip repair, seam repair, and resealing can help restore the appearance of your stone countertops.

35. What is the process for countertop installation?

The countertop installation process typically includes selecting your stone slab, digital templating and measurements, in-house fabrication, and professional installation. This ensures your countertops fit perfectly and perform well for years to come.

36. What makes Milliron Granite & Quartz different from other countertop contractors?

Milliron Granite & Quartz focuses on quality craftsmanship, premium materials, and personalized service. Our team works closely with homeowners and builders from design consultation through final installation to ensure every countertop project meets the highest standards.

37. Where can I see stone countertops in Sioux Falls?

You can visit the Milliron Granite & Quartz showroom in Sioux Falls to view a large selection of granite, quartz, and marble countertops. Seeing full slabs in person helps you choose the perfect stone for your project.

38. Are stone countertops good for outdoor kitchens?

Yes. Granite countertops are especially well suited for outdoor kitchens because they are extremely durable and resistant to heat and weather conditions.

39. Do you work with homeowners and contractors?

Yes. Milliron Granite & Quartz works with homeowners, builders, remodelers, and designers throughout Sioux Falls and the Black Hills to provide custom stone countertop fabrication and installation.

40. How do I get a quote for countertops in Sioux Falls or the Black Hills?

You can request a quote on our Request a Quote page https://millirongq.com/request-quote/ or visiting one of our showrooms. Our team will help you select the right stone countertops and provide an estimate based on your project dimensions and material selection.