Surfside Granite in South Carolina: What to Know Before You Buy
Surfside Granite is a countertop and stone supplier with locations across South Carolina
Surfside Granite sells granite, quartz, and other engineered stone countertops for kitchens, bathrooms, and other surfaces. The company operates multiple showrooms in South Carolina where you can see samples in person, get pricing, and arrange installation. They work with homeowners doing renovations as well as contractors and builders on larger projects.
If you are shopping for countertop materials, Surfside Granite is one option among several stone suppliers in the state. Understanding what they offer, how their pricing works, and what the installation process looks like will help you decide whether to visit or explore other suppliers.
Key Takeaways
- Surfside Granite operates showrooms in multiple South Carolina locations where you can view stone samples and discuss your project in person.
- The company carries both natural stone (granite, marble) and engineered stone (quartz), each with different costs, durability, and maintenance needs.
- Pricing varies based on the stone type, thickness, edge detail, and size of your countertop, so getting a quote requires measurements and material selection.
- Installation is typically handled by the company or their partners, and the timeline from selection to completion usually spans several weeks.
- Comparing Surfside Granite's pricing and service to other local stone suppliers helps you understand what you are paying for and whether it fits your budget.
What materials Surfside Granite carries
Granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth, popular for countertops because it is heat-resistant and durable. Each slab has unique color and pattern variation. Granite requires sealing when installed and periodic resealing to prevent stains and water damage.
Quartz is engineered stone made from crushed quartz mixed with resin binders. It mimics the look of natural stone but does not require sealing and resists stains better than granite. Quartz is generally more uniform in appearance than granite because it is manufactured rather than quarried.
Surfside Granite also carries other materials such as marble, limestone, and soapstone. Each has different price points, appearance, and maintenance demands. Marble, for example, is softer and more prone to etching from acidic foods and drinks, making it less practical for kitchen countertops but popular for bathrooms and decorative surfaces.
How pricing works for countertops
Countertop cost depends on several factors: the type of stone, the thickness (usually 2 or 3 centimeters), the edge profile (simple or decorative), the size of your countertop, and whether you need cutouts for sinks or cooktops. Granite and quartz prices vary widely based on the specific color and pattern you choose.
To get an accurate quote, you will need to provide measurements of your countertop space, decide on a material, and specify any edge details or special features. Surfside Granite can provide estimates in person at their showroom or through a consultation at your home. Installation costs are separate from material costs and depend on the complexity of your kitchen or bathroom layout.
Comparing quotes from multiple stone suppliers in your area gives you a sense of whether Surfside Granite's pricing is competitive for the materials and service you want. Some suppliers offer different edge options, installation timelines, or warranty terms that may affect the total cost.
The showroom visit and selection process
Surfside Granite's showrooms display stone samples so you can see color, pattern, and finish in natural light before making a decision. Visiting in person is useful because granite and quartz can look different under your home's lighting than they do under showroom lights. Bringing photos of your kitchen or bathroom helps the staff understand your space and suggest materials that will work with your cabinets and décor.
During a showroom visit, you can ask about durability, maintenance, and cost differences between materials. Staff can also discuss edge profiles (beveled, bullnose, ogee, and others), which affect both appearance and price. If you are unsure about a choice, many people select a few favorites and live with samples at home for a few days before deciding.
Installation timeline and process
Once you have selected your stone and signed a contract, the timeline typically runs four to eight weeks from order to installation, depending on whether the stone is in stock or needs to be cut and fabricated. Custom edge details and cutouts add time to fabrication.
Installation day usually takes one to three days depending on the size and complexity of your countertop. The installer removes your old countertop (if applicable), sets the new stone, seals any joints, and installs the sink and faucet if needed. After installation, granite requires sealing; quartz does not.
Surfside Granite either handles installation directly or coordinates with installation partners. Asking about their warranty on both materials and installation helps you understand what is covered if something cracks or fails after the work is complete.
Maintenance and care after installation
Granite needs to be sealed when installed and resealed every one to three years, depending on use and the specific stone. Sealing prevents liquids from soaking into the stone and causing stains. Daily cleaning is simple: wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry with a soft cloth.
Quartz requires no sealing because the resin binder makes it non-porous. It resists stains and bacteria growth better than granite. Cleaning is the same as granite: mild soap and water, dried with a soft cloth. Both materials can be damaged by extreme heat, so use trivets under hot pots and pans.
Knowing the maintenance demands of your chosen material before installation helps you decide whether the stone fits your lifestyle. Some homeowners prefer quartz specifically because it requires less upkeep than granite.
Comparing Surfside Granite to other South Carolina stone suppliers
South Carolina has other granite and quartz suppliers, including national chains and independent local shops. Comparing a few options helps you understand pricing, material selection, and service quality. Some suppliers specialize in high-end custom work; others focus on budget-friendly options. Some offer same-day or next-day installation; others have longer lead times.
When comparing, ask each supplier the same questions: What is the cost per square foot for the stone you want? What is included in the installation price? What is the warranty? How long is the timeline? Do they handle removal of the old countertop? These details vary enough between suppliers that the lowest price is not always the best value.
Reading reviews from past customers on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau can give you insight into whether a supplier delivers on time, handles problems professionally, and stands behind their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between granite and quartz for countertops?
Granite is natural stone quarried from the earth; each slab is unique in color and pattern. Quartz is engineered stone made from crushed quartz and resin. Granite requires sealing and more maintenance; quartz does not. Quartz is more uniform in appearance and resists stains better. Both are durable, but granite is slightly harder and more heat-resistant.
How much does a granite or quartz countertop cost?
Cost varies widely based on the specific stone, thickness, edge profile, and size of your countertop. Prices also depend on whether you need cutouts for sinks or cooktops and whether installation is included. Getting a quote from Surfside Granite or another supplier requires measurements and material selection. Installation costs are typically separate from material costs.
Do I need to seal my countertop after installation?
Granite requires sealing when installed and resealing every one to three years to prevent stains and water damage. Quartz does not need sealing because it is non-porous. Ask your installer which material you have chosen and what maintenance schedule they recommend.
How long does it take from selection to installation?
The timeline typically runs four to eight weeks from the time you order until installation is complete. This depends on whether the stone is in stock, how long fabrication takes, and the installer's schedule. Custom edge details or complex cutouts may add time. Installation itself usually takes one to three days.
Can I see samples before I decide?
Yes. Surfside Granite's showrooms display stone samples so you can see color, pattern, and finish in person. Visiting in natural light and bringing photos of your kitchen or bathroom helps you make a decision. Many people also take samples home for a few days to see how they look under their own lighting before committing.