Frequently Asked Questions

We're here to answer all of your questions. Our number one priority is to equip you with every tool necessary to help you create the perfect kitchen. In our FAQ section, we attempt to provide you with everything you need to know about our countertop surfaces to help guide you in selecting the perfect Vaman Enterprises Ltd. Countertop. If you don't find your answers in our FAQ section, please send us an email.

What is the warranty on my countertop?
Engineered Stone: When you purchase an Engineered Stone Countertop from Vaman Enterprises Ltd., you get a 1-year installation warranty and a 10-year manufacturer warranty on the product itself.
Laminate: When you purchase a Laminate Countertop you get a 1-year installation warranty.
Solid Surface: When you purchase a Solid Surface Countertop you get a 1-year installation warranty and a 10-year manufacturer warranty on the product itself.
Granite: When you purchase a Granite Countertop from Vaman Enterprises Ltd., you get a 1-year installation warranty. Even though granite is one of the most durable countertop surfaces it is a natural stone and cannot have a warranty placed on it.
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Do I need a sub deck under my stone countertops?
Engineered Stone: No, all of our Engineered Stone slabs are 3cm (1 ¼") thick and will lie directly on your cabinets.
Granite: No, all of our Granite slabs are 3cm (1 ¼") thick and will lie directly on your cabinets.
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Can I install my own countertops?
Laminate: Yes you can!! We will build laminate countertops to your dimensions so you can install it yourself. We do have a $200 minimum for producing jobs that you install yourself.
Solid Surface: No. As an authorized fabricator for Solid Surface we are under commitment. The makers of Solid Surface require all countertops made out of Corian or Staron to be installed by an authorized installer in order to have the 10 year warranty apply.
Engineered Stone: No. As the authorized fabricator for Engineered Stone in Alberta we are under contract to use trained subcontractors to install Engineered Stone Countertops in order to have the 10 year warranty apply.
Granite: No, since you require an ÒAÓ frame to transport the finished pieces Ð Cannot be laid down flat and the material weight is 20lbs per square foot. Most people cannot handle the weight of the material, plus it requires a special technique to carry this material along with specialized tools and epoxies to finish a perfect install.
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What is a template?
A template is a pattern made of your future countertops that will be used to produce your countertop to your specifications.
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What are your lead times?
From order through installation the process usually takes about 3-4 weeks. (This time can vary depending on current work loads.)
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How often do I need to seal my granite countertops?
You will need to seal your Granite countertops at least once a year using conventional sealers. At an additional fee, we can provide you with a life time warranty using Granite Shield product only available through Vaman Enterprises Ltd. This product gives you the comfort of never sealing your counter, a smooth shiner finish.
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How do I clean my countertops?
Granite: Granite: If you'd like, you may purchase a special stone cleaner. However, 30% vinegar and 70% water workÕs the best. Soap and water will start leaving a soap residue and will cause your granite to appear dull, until you scrub with bull dog #3 steal wool.

Engineered Stone: You can use anything from an all purpose cleaner to soap and water.

Corian: Everyday cleaning of Corian can be done by an all purpose cleaner or warm water. For stains or heavy dirt you may also use a scotch bright light abrasive pad and a little elbow grease!

Laminate:
For everyday cleaning: Use a clean, damp, non-abrasive cloth with a mild detergent or household cleaner. To remove stuck-on residue, scrub with a nylon-bristled brush.
For difficult stains: Apply a paste of baking soda and water to draw out the stain. Then, blot away with a damp cloth. DonÕt rub the stain, as it may set back into the laminate. You may use solvents such as denatured alcohol or nail polish remover on your laminate countertop to remove pen or pencil stains. Use a small amount and repeat until the stain is removed. Rinse the surface thoroughly and then clean as usual.
For dusting: Use a non-oily furniture spray. This may also help hide small scratches. Do not use cleaners containing acid, alkali or bleach. This includes cleaners made for toilets, tubs, tile, ovens, rust, metal, ceramic cook tops and lime mineral deposits. If you are unsure about a particular cleaning agent, contact the manufacturer to ensure its compatibility with laminate surfaces. Do not allow bottles, rags or any other container that holds harsh chemicals to come in contact with your laminate countertop. This includes hair dyes, clothing dyes and food coloring.
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How do I know if I need to seal my granite?
One method you can use to check if your granite needs to be resealed is to sprinkle some water on your countertops. If the water soaks into the stone and does not bead up, then we would recommend resealing your granite. Most kitchens need to be resealed about once a year.
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What should I avoid with my countertops?
Granite: Wine, mustard, oils, acidic chemicals, if you have not protected your counter tops with Granite Shield.
Engineered Stone: Hot pots or excessive heat with cause the crystals to crystallize – go opaque.
Corian: DO NOT PLACE HOT POTS, PANS, ETC. DIRECTLY ON THE COUNTERTOP SURFACE. Always use heat trivets or hot pads when placing hot objects on any surface. Always use a trivet under portable heat generating appliances such as a toaster oven. Allow cookware to cool before placing it into a Corian¨ sink.
Preventing Other Damage:In most cases Corian¨ can be repaired if damaged. Be sure to follow these guidelines to help you prevent any permanent damage to your Corian¨. Avoid getting strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc., on your Corian¨ countertop. If a spill does occur, promptly flush the surface with water to fully rinse off the chemical. Do not cut directly on Corian¨ countertops. Use a cutting board. Boiling water alone will not damage your Corian¨ sink, however it is a recommended practice to run cold water from the faucet while pouring boiling water into the sink.
Laminate: Do not place hot items directly on your laminate countertop. Use a hot pad or trivet to avoid placing hot pans or dishes directly on the laminate surface. Keep lit cigarettes from directly coming in contact with the laminate surface. Do not place curling irons or hot rollers directly on the laminate surface. Do not iron or even place a hot iron on the laminate surface. Do not use your laminate countertop as a cutting board. Knives and other sharp utensils could slice or scratch the laminate surface. Do not slide abrasive items across your laminate countertop. Ceramics, earthenware and other rough- bottomed objects could scratch the laminate surface. Use a placemat or other protective underlay with these items. Do not use scouring pads or steel wool on the laminate surface. Do not drop objects on your laminate countertop. Heavy impact can chip or crack the laminate surface.
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Do I need to seal my countertop?
Granite: Yes, about once a year.
Engineered Stone: No. The seal is engineered into the stone at production.
Solid Surface: No.
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Can I set hot things on my stone countertops?
We recommend that you DO NOT place hot things such as hot pots directly on any of the countertops we offer.
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How can I determine my real bottom line cost?
Many things go into the cost of your countertops. While considering which product to go with and comparing prices, know that the elements that go into your countertop price are: square footage; edge profile; backsplash; sink; stove; the location of your home; and access to your home.
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How will I know if my old cabinets can support a new countertop?
Stone countertops can weigh up to 30 pounds per square foot. At the time of template, our "templating" team will make sure your cabinets are structurally sound to handle the weight of your new countertops.
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What are the major differences between the different countertops?
Granite: Natural Beauty unmatched by any other product
Engineered Stone: Durability and little to no maintenance
Solid Surface: Seamless
Laminate: Priced for any home with widest color selection
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Will my countertop have a seam?
We try extremely hard to avoid seams if possible, but the reality is that the majority of countertops will have a seam no matter how hard we try.
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How is the seam placement determined on my stone countertops?
Seams are determined by Vaman Enterprises Ltd. Countertops depending on countertop layout, support needed, and material usage.
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How much does the stone countertop weigh?
Stone slabs weigh between 25 and 30 pounds per square foot.
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Where does the Granite come from?
The granite in our Bellisimo Granite Collection comes from quarries all over the world such as Brazil, Italy, South Africa and India.
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What is the advantage of Granite Countertops?
Granite is the best natural surface used for countertops. Its natural beauty allows you to have a countertop that can not be duplicated.
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What is the advantage of Engineered Stone Countertops?
Engineered Stone is an engineered quartz surface that is 93% quartz. It is the most durable and low maintenance countertop offered on the market.
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What is the advantage of Solid Surface Countertops?
Solid Surface is an Acrylic composite that allows seamless transitions between pieces, sinks, and even into the backsplash.
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What is the advantage of Laminate Countertops?
Laminate is priced for any home with many edge profiles and color options.
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