FAQ
Answers to the questions we hear most often about natural stone, engineered
quartz, and buying slabs from StoneX USA — a wholesale importer and
distributor of premium surfaces based in West Allis, Wisconsin.
Natural Stone Basics
What is natural stone?
Natural stone is rock quarried directly from the earth — granite, marble,
quartzite, dolomite, and soapstone are the most common for countertops. Each slab
is one of a kind, formed over millions of years, which is why color and veining
vary from bundle to bundle. Browse our granite,
quartzite, and
marble collections to see current lots.
What is the difference between quartz and quartzite?
Quartzite is a natural metamorphic rock; quartz (engineered stone) is
manufactured from ground minerals and resin. Quartzite offers unique veining and
high heat resistance, while quartz delivers uniform patterns and a nonporous,
low-maintenance surface. Our full comparison:
Quartz
vs Quartzite — What’s the Difference?
Should I choose granite or quartz for my kitchen?
Granite suits those who want a one-of-a-kind natural pattern and strong heat
resistance; quartz suits those who want consistent color and minimal upkeep. We
break down durability, looks, and care in
Granite
vs Quartz — Which Countertop Is Right for You?
Does natural stone need sealing?
Most granites and quartzites benefit from periodic sealing; engineered quartz
never needs it. A simple water-drop test shows when it’s time: if water darkens
the surface within a few minutes, reseal. Step-by-step instructions are in our
cleaning
and sealing guide.
Buying Slabs from StoneX USA
Do you sell full slabs or cut countertops?
We are a slab importer and wholesale distributor — we supply full slabs and
bundles to fabricators, contractors, builders, and homeowners working with a
fabricator. We do not cut or install countertops ourselves; your fabricator
templates and installs the stone.
Can I see the actual slab before buying?
Yes. Every slab we stock is photographed and listed in our
live inventory, and you can view
slabs in person at our
Milwaukee-area slab
showroom in West Allis, WI. Because natural stone varies lot to lot, we always
recommend approving the exact slabs reserved for your project.
Do you sell to homeowners, or only to the trade?
Both. Fabricators, kitchen and bath dealers, builders, and designers buy from us
at trade volume, and homeowners are welcome to visit the showroom to select slabs
that their fabricator then purchases and installs.
How do I check what is in stock right now?
Our live inventory shows
current slabs with photos, and it updates as bundles arrive and sell. For
project-quantity availability, contact
our team and we’ll confirm lots and hold slabs for viewing.
Care & Maintenance
How do I clean natural stone countertops?
Daily care is simple: warm water, a drop of pH-neutral dish soap, and a soft
cloth. Avoid vinegar, lemon, and abrasive cleaners — acids etch marble and can
dull sealers. Wipe spills promptly on porous stones.
Can I put hot pans on stone countertops?
Granite and quartzite tolerate brief contact with hot cookware, but trivets are
still the safe habit. Engineered quartz contains resin and should always be
protected from direct heat.
