counter tops

Counter Tops - Used in kitchens, restaurants and retail spaces. Custom backsplash pieces are available.

Vanity Tops - Used in residential, commercial and hotel bathrooms. Custom backsplash pieces are available.

Backsplash is an important element to most successful kitchen installations. It performs a vital role as a splash-guard to the back wall, particularly around the stove area, and keeps water from leaking behind the cabinetry. It is also an invaluable ‘mask’ – hiding the gaps where a straight counter meets with a less-than-straight wall (as is typically in most older houses).

In contrast to cheaper imported "slates", Vermont slate will not stain, fade or delaminate. In fact, our unfading slates are almost completely non-absorbent and do not require sealing. It is said, for this reason, slate is also "antibacterial".

Our slates are durable, exceptionally strong, hard, dense and fireproof. They are also very stain, acid and heat resistant. Scratches are easily rubbed out. No chemicals are used in production.

We recommend a honed finish that, when machined smooth, has a matte, non-shiny appearance. Slate is not a glossy material.

Honed - an extremely smooth, eggshell finish. Achieved with the use of fine diamonds.

Slab sizes vary for each stone.

Counter tops are generally 1 1/4” to 1 1/2”. However we can produce any thickness desired within the limitations of the stone. Our slate countertops are full thickness and do not have false laminated edges, making undermount sinks a popular design choice.

Classic slate edge detailing is a honed, eased edge. It is a relatively square edge with the “arris” or sharpness taken off at the top and bottom. This edge profile suits slate stylistically and from a performance standpoint. It is also the most economical. However, other edge profiles are available.

Slabs butt together tightly. Joint edges are left sharp for a nearly seamless transition. In measuring, no allowance should be made for joints. In installation, only a small bead of silicone should be applied between pieces. All silicone that beads to the top should be wiped away.

Prices vary according to color. To get a quote on your project, please fax a drawing of your project to 802-265-3865. The following information must be included:

* Stone Color
* All dimensions (unable to scale faxes)
* Thickness
* Cutouts: drop-in or undermount
* Finished edges: mark with an "x"
* Backsplash: height, location, and finished edges
* Ship to City, State, and Zip

We do not do field measurements or installation. However, we can provide measuring instructions. We prefer measurements (according to our instructions) rather than templates, which, when not done with a great degree of accuracy can cause more problems than they solve. However, we will accept templates if necessary. For accountability, we recommend the same contractor be responsible for final measurements and installation.

For installation you will need silicone, clear drying Phenoseal, masking tape, epoxy and a few strong people. If the measuring has been done correctly, installation should be straight-forward.

Backsplash is an important element to most successful kitchen installations. It performs a vital role as a splash-guard to the back wall, particularly around the stove area, and keeps water from leaking behind the cabinetry. It is also an invaluable ‘mask’ – hiding the gaps where a straight counter meets with a less-than-straight wall (as is typically in most older houses).

Our Vermont slate is very easy to maintain. Just clean it like you would any other counter surface, with dish-washing detergent or a grease cutting agent such as Fantastic. A light coat of mineral or tung oil can enhance luster, but some find it attracts dirt.

Contact us for information regarding the use of sealers, impregnators, oiling, cleaning, etc.