PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES: 11. CABINETS AND COUNTERTOPS

11.13 Seam (Joint) in Stone Countertop Too Wide or Open

Acceptable Performance/Condition

Joints in stone countertops shall be filled and sealed to provide a continuous finished surface. Loose or missing filler is unacceptable.

Joints in stone countertops can be factory made (pre-assembled) or loose joints (site-assembled). Both types of joints can be found in single installations and may be necessary due to access or transportation restrictions, countertop layout, weight and slab size limitations. Seams are a common occurrence in the manufacturing process. Manufacturers try to incorporate seams in locations suitable to the cabinetry layout or based on best use of the natural material determined by the installer.

Warranty Coverage

• 12 months In-Home
• 15 months Common Property

Damage caused by normal shrinkage of materials caused by drying after construction is not covered under warranty.

Damage resulting from normal wear and tear or maintenance not conducted in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder is not covered under warranty.

Claim Response

Countertops not meeting the Acceptable Performance/Condition are to be rectified.p>

Loose joints can be filled with epoxy or other suitable material in a matching colour to the stone. The visibility of joints will depend on the stone’s granularity, colour and pattern, as well as the lighting conditions in the room. Where repairs are made, an exact match of colour, finish, grain, sheen or texture may not be possible.

Maintenance Tip

Stone countertops may be sealed at the time of installation and require regular re-applications as part of home maintenance. Sealers are applied to prevent deep stains within the stone, which are difficult and sometimes impossible to remove, but do not necessarily protect the countertop from surface stains. Stones are porous materials; therefore, any spilled substances require immediate attention.