FAQ
Countertop Questions, Answered
These are the questions we hear most at our Nokomis showroom, about materials, cost and timing, remnants, visiting the showroom and installation. Each answer is short and direct. If your question is not here, call us or stop by, and we'll be glad to help.
Last updated
Materials
Is granite or quartz better for Florida humidity?
Both perform well in Florida humidity. Quartz is non-porous, so it never needs sealing and resists moisture and stains. Granite is natural stone that needs periodic sealing to keep liquids out. Choose quartz for the lowest upkeep, or granite for natural variation, stronger heat tolerance and a surface that also works outdoors.
What is the difference between quartz and quartzite?
Quartz is engineered: roughly 90 to 95 percent ground quartz bound with resins, so it is non-porous and never needs sealing. Quartzite is natural stone formed when sandstone metamorphoses under heat and pressure. It tolerates heat better and holds its color outdoors, but it needs periodic sealing. Quartz offers uniform patterns, and quartzite offers one of a kind slabs.
Is marble a bad idea for a kitchen?
Not if you know what to expect. Marble is beautiful but softer and porous. Acids such as lemon juice, wine and vinegar can etch the surface, and it needs regular sealing. Many homeowners accept the soft patina that develops. If you want a similar look with more durability, ask us about dolomite or quartzite.
How often should I seal granite countertops?
Natural stones such as granite, marble and quartzite need periodic sealing, and how often depends on the stone and its use. A quick test tells you when: put a few drops of water on the counter, and if the stone darkens within a few minutes, it is time to reseal. Quartz and porcelain are non-porous and never need sealing.
What countertop is best for an outdoor kitchen in Florida?
Sun, heat and rain matter outdoors. Granite is a long proven outdoor choice, and porcelain is UV stable. Some quartz and marble can fade or discolor in direct sun, so many manufacturers advise indoor use only. Check the maker's guidance before you choose. We build outdoor kitchen countertops for lanais, pool areas and patios across Southwest Florida.
Is quartz heat proof?
No. Quartz tolerates everyday cooking heat, but its resins can scorch or crack from a hot pan straight off the burner, so use trivets. Granite, quartzite and porcelain handle heat better. If you cook a lot, compare these materials side by side at our Nokomis showroom before you choose your countertops.
Cost and timing
How much do countertops cost per square foot?
Price depends on the material, the edge profile, the layout and the number of cutouts, so we quote every project individually. The quickest way to a real number is to request an estimate with rough measurements or photos, either at our Nokomis showroom or with a visit to your home.
How long does countertop installation take?
It depends on the size of the job. After templating, the stone has to be cut and finished before it can go in, and the wait varies with the season. A single vanity top goes in faster than a large kitchen with several heavy pieces. We confirm the timing with you when we book your installation date.
Remnants
What is a countertop remnant, and does it cost less?
A remnant is a leftover piece cut from a larger slab, ideal for vanities, bars, laundry rooms and small kitchens. It usually costs less, because you buy only a small piece of premium stone. Sizes and colors are limited to the pieces on hand, so ask what is available before you visit the showroom.
Showroom
Do I need to visit a showroom to pick a slab?
Visiting is strongly recommended, because color and veining vary from slab to slab, and photos rarely match real stone. Our showroom at 780 N Tamiami Trail in Nokomis displays samples and slabs. Come see the slabs in person before you decide. If you cannot visit, call us and ask for photos of the slabs you have in mind.
Where can I find a countertop shop near Venice, FL?
Sunshine Granite & Marble is a countertop showroom and fabricator at 780 N Tamiami Trail in Nokomis, about 1.2 miles from Venice in a straight line. We offer granite, quartz, quartzite, marble, porcelain and dolomite, with templating, fabrication and installation. We speak English, Portuguese and Spanish. Stop by the showroom or request an estimate online.
Which areas does Sunshine Granite & Marble serve?
We serve homeowners, builders and remodelers across Southwest Florida from our showroom in Nokomis. That includes Venice, Osprey, North Port, Sarasota, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Lakewood Ranch and Bradenton. If your town is not on the list, ask us, because distance and project size both matter.
Do you speak Portuguese or Spanish?
Yes. We speak English, Portuguese and Spanish, so you can talk through your project in the language you are most comfortable with. Call us or stop by our showroom at 780 N Tamiami Trail in Nokomis, and we'll help you compare stones, edges and sinks and prepare your countertop estimate.
Installation
What happens during countertop templating?
Templating is the measuring visit before fabrication. A specialist records exact dimensions and confirms edge profile, overhang, backsplash height and sink cutouts with you. A single vanity takes less time than a large kitchen with an island. Cabinets should be installed and level first, so the measurements match what the stone will sit on.
Can I replace countertops without replacing cabinets?
Often, yes. Countertops can be replaced on existing cabinets when the cabinets are sound and level. The old tops have to come off carefully, so the cabinets underneath stay intact. Your estimate confirms exactly what your project needs, and we check the cabinets during the estimate and again at templating.
Want more detail? Each material has its own page, starting with granite countertops and quartz countertops, and our countertop materials comparison puts all six side by side. For the step by step process, see countertop installation. For smaller projects, read about countertop remnants. And when you are ready to see the stone, plan a visit to our Nokomis showroom.
Nokomis showroom
Still have a question?
Stop by our Nokomis showroom or tell us about your project, and we'll answer it along with your countertop estimate.