Granite & Marble Works Inc., located at 8 Commerce Park Drive in Wilton, has been specializing in natural stone surfaces since 2003. Owners Mike and Margaret Roohan had been in the construction business for more than 20 years when they opened the business, interested in using high quality materials to improve the beauty of people’s homes.

“It’s a really nice look for relatively little hassle and a good price,” Margaret Roohan said.

The store uses stones that come from as far away as Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Ukraine, Italy and Spain. With more than 300 slabs in stock and approximately 80 colors to choose from, Granite & Marble Works Inc. has a stone to fit every purpose, taste and budget. And every single piece is unique, since stones naturally vary in color.

Choices of stone include granite, marble, limestone, travertine, onyx, soapstone and quartz. The best stone for you depends on your project.

“For the durability, beauty and value, granite is best for countertops,” Roohan said. Granite can be cut upon without leaving scratches, and can withstand heat up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. Soapstone is also very heat-resistant, making it another option for countertops, as well as for woodstoves.

Travertine, which is easily damaged by heat, scratches, staining and acidity, works better for non-kitchen projects. Likewise, marble and onyx are not ideal for kitchens, but are good choices for bathrooms, hearths and some furniture.

“We try to educate each customer about their project,” Roohan said. “We talk to them about the way they live and the way they use their kitchen. We make sure they know the pros and cons of each stone.”

Natural stone is more affordable than many people believe, and any extra expense pays for itself in the long run because the surfaces do not need to be repaired or replaced nearly as often as synthetic ones. Synthetic materials such as porcelain, Formica and ceramic tile are easily damaged by burning, scratching, discoloration and normal wear and tear, whereas natural stone is much more durable.

Granite & Marble Works Inc. does all its construction on-site, Roohan said, and completes about 500 kitchens each year. The company does both individual and commercial jobs. Recent projects include the local YMCA and the new dining hall at Skidmore College.

“We’re very price-competitive,” Roohan said, adding that the majority of the stones cost between $75 and $90 per square foot. The price of the entire project depends upon a number of factors, including the size of the surface, the type of edge desired, the type of sink to be used, the height of the backsplash, and whether the project is a new installation or a renovation.

It is important to care for your new countertop by washing it daily with mild soap and water, dusting it regularly, and cleaning all spills immediately. You also should not use acidic or abrasive cleaning products, which make the surface dull and more prone to stains. Granite & Marble Works Inc. sells a variety of Stone-Tech products to keep your countertop looking like new, such as revitalizer cleaner and polish. For more information, contact Granite & Marble Works Inc. at 584-2800.