Your Top Tile & Granite Questions Answered by SLO County's Most Experienced Contractor

Dreaming about your new kitchen or bathroom remodel? A key part of those renovations is the tile and countertops that go in them. What most folks don't know is that the type of tile and stone you get for your counters makes a big difference in maintenance and cleaning! That's why we're going to tackle the most commonly asked questions from homeowners across San Luis Obispo County. After 35+ years in the tile and granite industry, we've got the answers you need to make smart decisions for your next home project.

Don't see your question below? Reach out, and we'll be more than happy to answer your question; give us a call at (805) 235-1675 or email Charlespaul559@gmail.com. Or visit our FAQ page for more.

Should I Do Granite Or Quartz Countertops?

Now, this is the question we get asked the most about. What's the difference between granite and quartz, and does it even matter? This small decision is an absolute game-changer for kitchen (and bathroom) remodels. You'll want to pick the one that aligns closest with your lifestyle. Here's what we mean by that...

Granite: A natural stone, making each slab completely unique in its color, veining, and pattern. You'll find that no two granite countertops are completely identical for this reason. It's highly heat-resistant and extremely durable. It does require periodic sealing to prevent staining. Your granite countertops will last a LONG time.

Key takeaways: heat-resistant, extremely durable, unique, lasts for a long time and requires regular sealing.

Quartz: Crafted from crushed quartz crystals bound with resin. This creates a consistent, non-porous surface that never needs sealing. It's less heat-tolerant, but resists staining very well.

Key takeaways: semi-heat-resistant, consistent appearance, and no sealing is required.

What's The Best Tile For A Bathroom Or Shower?

The good news is that as a Central Coast homeowner, you have plenty of great options! Typically, porcelain tile is the most popular choice for bathrooms and showers. Why folks across SLO County love it...

• It's water-resistant.

• Fairly durable.

• Available in a wide range of styles.

• Easy to maintain.

Now, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option, then you'll want to go with ceramic tile. It performs pretty well in wet areas, making it ideal for your bathroom remodel.

If you're ready to splurge for a more luxurious feel, we recommend a natural stone like marble or travertine. These stones are absolutely stunning and will definitely provide that WOW factor to your bathrooms. Since they are natural, they will require sealing to protect them from moisture.

How Long Does A Kitchen Or Bathroom Remodel Take?

Let's start with a kitchen remodel. If you're ready to overhaul your kitchen, it really matters what you'd like to see done. If you're only replacing the countertops, this will take a few days after we've secured the countertop you'd like to use. For a more comprehensive remodel that includes countertops, backsplashes, and flooring, it will generally take one to two weeks depending on kitchen size and material lead times. We do our best to give you a clear timeline before work starts so you can plan accordingly.

Bathroom renovations normally take a bit more time than their kitchen counterparts. These projects can include tile flooring, shower wall tile, tub surrounds, shower pan tile, niche installations, vanity top countertops, and decorative accents. The time between a simple shower retile and a full spa-style transformation can vary widely. The best way to get a time estimate is to call our team at (805) 235-1675 for a no-obligation estimate.

Can I Replace The Countertops Without A Full Remodel?

Absolutely! Countertop replacements are one of our most popular services. We work cleanly and safely around your existing cabinets, appliances, and fixtures. Upgrading your countertops is one of the highest-return improvements you can make to a kitchen.

Can You Retile Without Tearing Out The Walls?

It really depends on the current state of your walls. If the existing backer board and waterproofing membrane are in sound condition, a surface-only retile may be possible. However, if there is moisture damage, mold, or a failing waterproofing system behind the tile, a more thorough removal is typically the right long-term solution. We will assess your tiled walls honestly during our estimate and recommend only what is necessary.

How Do I Get Started With My Kitchen Or Bathroom Remodel?

Get a no-obligation quote from the team at Rock Solid Granite! We serve all of San Luis Obispo County, including San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Cambria, and Grover Beach, and surrounding Central Coast communities. Contact us at (805) 235-1675 or email Charlespaul559@gmail.com. For more questions, check out our FAQ page!