Mike USA Granite: What to Know Before You Order

Mike USA Granite specializes in granite and quartz countertops for kitchens and bathrooms across South Carolina

Mike USA Granite is a countertop fabricator and installer based in South Carolina that works with homeowners and contractors on granite, quartz, and other stone surfaces. The company handles the full process from selection through installation, meaning you choose your stone, have it fabricated to your measurements, and have it installed in your home. They serve residential customers throughout the state and work on both new construction and renovation projects.

Like other local fabricators, Mike USA Granite operates on a made-to-order model: you pick your slab, the shop cuts and finishes it to fit your space, and a crew installs it. This differs from big-box retailers, which may stock limited colors and require you to work around what's in inventory. Understanding how the process works, what to expect in terms of timeline and cost, and how to prepare your kitchen or bathroom will help you plan your project.

Key Takeaways

• Mike USA Granite handles stone selection, fabrication, and installation as one company, so you work with the same team from start to finish.
• Granite and quartz have different properties—granite is porous and requires sealing, while quartz is engineered and nonporous—so your choice affects maintenance and durability.
• The timeline from order to installation typically spans several weeks, so plan your kitchen or bathroom work around that schedule.
• Your existing countertop may need to be removed before fabrication begins, and your cabinets must be level and sturdy enough to support stone.
• Stone color and pattern vary by slab, so visiting the showroom to see actual samples in person is more reliable than photos alone.

How the ordering and installation process works

The typical sequence begins with a showroom visit or consultation where you browse available granite and quartz slabs. Once you choose a stone, Mike USA Granite takes measurements of your countertop space—this step is critical because the fabrication is custom-cut to your exact dimensions. You'll also decide on edge profiles (the shape and finish of the countertop's perimeter), sink cutouts, and any special features like a waterfall edge or breakfast bar extension.

After measurements are confirmed and your order is placed, the shop fabricates your countertop. This includes cutting the stone to size, shaping edges, polishing the surface, and drilling holes for faucets or other fixtures. Once fabrication is complete, the crew schedules installation at your home. Installation day typically involves removing your old countertop (if you have one), setting the new stone in place, sealing joints, and securing it to your cabinets. The entire process from order to installation usually takes three to six weeks, depending on the shop's current workload and whether your cabinets need preparation.

Granite versus quartz: which stone is right for your space

Granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth, which means each slab is unique in color and pattern. It's durable and heat-resistant, making it popular for kitchens. However, granite is porous, so it requires sealing when first installed and periodic resealing (typically every one to three years) to prevent stains and bacteria from penetrating the surface. If you choose granite, you'll need to commit to ongoing maintenance.

Quartz is engineered stone made from crushed quartz mixed with resin and pigments. It's nonporous, so it doesn't require sealing and resists stains and bacteria naturally. Quartz is also consistent in appearance—the color and pattern are uniform across the slab, which appeals to homeowners who want predictability. The trade-off is that quartz can be damaged by extreme heat, so you should use trivets under hot pots and pans. Quartz is also typically more expensive than granite, though prices vary by color and brand.

Both materials are scratch-resistant and long-lasting. Your choice often comes down to maintenance preference (sealed granite versus maintenance-free quartz), budget, and aesthetic preference (unique granite patterns versus uniform quartz colors).

What to prepare before installation day

Your cabinets must be level, sturdy, and in good condition before the stone is installed. If your cabinets are uneven or damaged, the weight of stone can cause cracking or shifting. Mike USA Granite or your contractor can assess your cabinets during the measurement visit and let you know if any repairs are needed beforehand. If you're replacing an old countertop, arrange for removal before the installation date—some fabricators include removal as part of the service, while others charge separately or expect you to handle it.

Clear the area around your countertops so the installation crew has access and space to work. Remove items from cabinets if possible, and protect your floors with cardboard or drop cloths. If you have a sink, the plumbing should be accessible. If you're installing a new sink as part of the project, coordinate that with the countertop installation so the sink and faucet are ready when the stone arrives.

Understanding stone color, pattern, and how to choose

Granite slabs are cut from quarried stone, so no two slabs are identical. The color and veining you see in a showroom sample is the actual pattern you'll receive, but the exact placement of veins and color variation across your full countertop will differ slightly from the sample. This is part of granite's appeal—it's genuinely one-of-a-kind. When you visit the showroom, ask to see the actual slab that will be used for your project, not just a small sample chip.

Quartz colors are consistent across the slab, so what you see in the showroom is what you'll get. However, lighting in your home differs from showroom lighting, so colors may appear slightly different once installed. Bring home a sample or visit the showroom multiple times under different lighting conditions if you're uncertain. Popular granite colors in South Carolina include black granite (like Absolute Black), white granite (like Kashmir White), and earth tones (like Santa Cecilia). Quartz ranges from solid colors to patterns that mimic natural stone.

Cost factors and what affects your final price

The cost of a countertop project depends on several variables: the type of stone (granite or quartz), the color and rarity of the slab, the size of your countertop area, edge profiles, and any special features like waterfall edges or island extensions. Granite is generally less expensive than quartz, but rare granite colors cost more than common ones. Quartz prices are set by the manufacturer and color, so they're more predictable than granite.

Installation costs vary based on your location within South Carolina, the complexity of your layout, and whether your old countertop needs removal. Some fabricators include removal in their quote; others charge separately. If your cabinets need leveling or repair before installation, that's an additional cost. Ask for a detailed quote that breaks down material, fabrication, installation, and any other charges so you understand where your money is going.

Caring for your new countertop after installation

If you choose granite, seal it within a few days of installation and follow the manufacturer's instructions for resealing. Most granite benefits from resealing every one to three years, depending on use and the sealer type. Clean granite daily with mild soap and water, and wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining. Avoid acidic cleaners (like vinegar or lemon juice) and abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the seal.

Quartz requires less maintenance: clean it with mild soap and water or a quartz-specific cleaner, and wipe spills as they happen. Don't use acidic cleaners, and avoid placing hot pots directly on the surface—use trivets or hot pads. Both granite and quartz benefit from using cutting boards for food prep and coasters under glasses to prevent water rings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire process take from order to installation?

The timeline typically ranges from three to six weeks, depending on the fabricator's workload and whether your cabinets need preparation. Simpler projects with standard edge profiles may move faster, while complex layouts or busy seasons can extend the timeline. Ask Mike USA Granite for a specific estimate when you place your order.

Can I see the actual slab before it's cut?

Yes, and you should. Granite slabs are unique, so the showroom should show you the exact slab your countertop will be cut from. Quartz colors are consistent, so a sample is representative, but visiting in person under your home's lighting is still helpful to confirm the color works in your space.

What happens if my cabinets aren't level?

Uneven cabinets can cause stone to crack or shift under its weight. The fabricator will assess this during measurement. If leveling is needed, it's usually done before installation. Ask whether this is included in the quote or charged separately.

Do I have to seal granite immediately after installation?

Yes, granite should be sealed within a few days of installation to protect it from stains and bacteria. The fabricator or installer can recommend a sealer and provide instructions. Resealing is typically needed every one to three years depending on use.

What's the difference between honed and polished granite?

Polished granite has a shiny, reflective finish and shows color and veining more vividly. Honed granite has a matte finish and is less slippery, making it practical for kitchens with heavy foot traffic. Both require sealing. Choose based on your aesthetic preference and how much maintenance you're willing to do.