Key terms of granite procurement contracts: quality, specifications, payment, delivery, claims

The Granite Truth About Quality

Granite's natural beauty comes with natural variations – but that doesn't mean anything goes. Your contract should spell out exactly what constitutes acceptable quality. Here's what you need covered:

• Veining & Color Matching: Stone patterns vary slab to slab. Require written approval of actual slabs before cutting, with the understanding seams won't be perfect matches (within 1/16" tolerance).
• Filling & Repair Tolerance: Minor cracks and pits are normal but should be repaired seamlessly. Define acceptable repair limits and require they not alter the overall appearance.
• Thickness Consistency: Specify uniform thickness (±1/16") across all slabs. Thinner slabs mean trouble long-term.
• Structural Integrity Clause: No fissures or cracks that could compromise stability under normal use. You shouldn't worry about the counter holding up your coffee cup!

Don't Get Stuck With Subpar Stone

Imagine waiting months only to reject installation day. Avoid this nightmare with:

• Slab approval before fabrication: You should always inspect and approve the actual granite slabs before cutting begins. Photos don't show the real thing.
• On-site quality review: Contract must allow immediate rejection if the delivered product doesn't match approved samples.
• Remediation options: Replacement timelines and costs covered by the supplier for rejected materials.

Beyond Pretty Pictures

Your contract should read like a granite bible with these essentials:

• Edge Profiles Defined: Waterfall, bullnose, ogee – include sketches with dimensions. "Standard edge" leaves too much wiggle room.
• Cutout Requirements: Sinks and appliances must be available during templating, or you provide exact specs at your own risk.
• Seaming Clauses: Explicitly state seam placement discretion and maximum visibility tolerance (e.g., MIA's 1/16" standard).
• Backsplash Integration: Specify mitered vs. surface mount details with reveal measurements at ends.

The Cabinet Conundrum

So many disputes start here. Protect yourself:

• Leveling Assumptions: Suppliers aren't cabinet installers. Require cabinets to be level and secured before templating.
• Shimming Policy: Clarify that shimming by fabricator is minimal and not a fix for uneven cabinets.
• Alteration Costs: Avoid surprise charges by having cabinet modification fees spelled out upfront if adjustments are needed.

Breaking Down the Costs

Granite contracts shouldn't feel like decoding ancient hieroglyphics. Demand clarity on:

• Base Material Pricing: Cost per square foot including any grade classifications (commercial vs. premium).
• Template Charges: Flat fee or hourly? What happens if remeasurement is needed?
• Cutting Complexities: Pricing for unusual edge profiles, integrated drainboards, or appliance openings.
• Change Order Fees: Costs and approval process for design modifications post-template.

Remember: Reputable natural stone manufacturers provide detailed, understandable pricing breakdowns. If it feels vague, push for specifics.

Deposits & Payment Schedules

Your money deserves protection. Smart payment structures include:

• Deposit Limits: 30-50% max before templating. More is unreasonable risk.
• Milestone Payments: Next installment after slab approval, final payment after satisfactory installation.
• Lien Releases: Protection against subcontractor claims on your property.
• Cancellation Terms: Understand refund policies if stopped before/during fabrication.

Getting It There In One Piece

The journey matters. Cover these transportation essentials:

• Delivery Windows: Not just "June" but specified dates with acceptable delays clauses (weather, transit issues).
• Crating Requirements: Specify A-frame or custom crating protection – never accept simple wrapping.
• On-Site Responsibility: Who handles moving stone inside? Where is liability transferred?
• Installation Prep Specs: Clear access paths, protected flooring, utilities ready.

The Installation Experience

This should be exciting, not stressful. Set expectations for:

• Crew Professionalism: Training, uniform standards, cleanup responsibilities.
• Time Estimates: How long installation realistically takes (and hourly rates if delayed by your unprepared site).
• Sealing Commitments: Type of sealant, warranty, and application timing.
• Final Walkthroughs: Inspection protocol before installers leave.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with great contracts, issues happen. Your agreement should provide a roadmap:

• Defect Reporting: Written notice timelines (e.g., 72 hours post-install) with photo documentation requirements.
• Remediation Options: Supplier's choice to repair/ｒｅｐｌａｃｅ, with maximum resolution timeframes.
• Independent Assessments: Third-party inspector selection if disputes arise over defect causes.
• Consequential Damage Limits: Most suppliers cap liability at contract value – know this upfront.

Avoiding Legal Nightmares

A good contract keeps you out of court. Ensure yours has:

• Venue Clauses: Where any legal action would occur – your home city is ideal.
• Attorney Fee Recovery: If they breach, your costs should be recoverable.
• Jury Waivers: Specifies bench trials over jury trials for quicker resolution.
• Subcontractor Clarification: Fabricator remains responsible for work even if subs were used.

Beyond the Big Five

These often-overlooked terms save you thousands:

• Weather & Force Majeure: Define acceptable delays without penalty (floods, strikes).
• Cancellation Fees: Understand "kill fees" if changing your mind after slabs are cut.
• Express Warranty Language: Beware vague "as is" language – good contracts give specific warranty durations.
• Maintenance Requirements: Proper sealing schedules to keep warranties valid.

Special attention when dealing with china granite suppliers: Clearly define origin documentation, import compliance requirements, and customs delay responsibilities.