5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Stone Countertops Locally

Buying granite countertops in Winnipeg for your kitchen or bathroom can feel exciting—until you realise how many things can go wrong. From picking the wrong material to skipping installation details, homeowners in Winnipeg often make costly mistakes when shopping for granite, quartz, or marble counters. If you're investing in stone, you want it done right the first time.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the five most common mistakes people make when buying stone countertops locally—and show you how to avoid them.

Choosing Price Over Quality

Why cheaper isn’t always better

Everyone wants to save money—but when it comes to countertops, cheaper often means:

• Lower-quality stone

• Thin slabs

• Poor surface finish

• No warranty or follow-up support

You might get a lower price upfront, but problems can show up within months. Cracks, stains, and uneven seams are common signs of poor-quality materials or rushed installations.

What to do instead:

• Ask if the stone is first-grade or commercial grade

• Inspect the slab before purchase—check for consistent colour and pattern

• Make sure installation is included in the quote

Not Seeing the Full Slab Before Buying

Small samples don’t tell the whole story

It’s easy to fall in love with a 4x4” showroom sample. But that tiny piece might not show the full veining or colour shifts in the actual slab.

Natural stone like granite or marble can vary a lot from one batch to another—even in the same colour name.

What can go wrong:

• The final countertop looks darker, lighter, or more veined than you expected

• Seams don’t match because of pattern inconsistencies

• You regret your choice once it’s installed

How to avoid it:

• Always ask to see the full slab before finalising your choice

• If it’s a showroom sample, ask where the actual slabs are sourced from

• Take photos in natural light so you know what to expect

Real Example: At Rockwood Stone Countertops, many clients are surprised at how different slabs look in person. We always show the full stone and walk you through how it’ll be cut and placed in your space.

Ignoring Local Climate and Use

Not all stones work the same in every home

Winnipeg has a unique climate—cold winters, hot summers, and lots of indoor activity during both seasons. Some stones handle this better than others.

For example:

• Quartz can warp if exposed to sunlight near a large window

• Marble scratches easily and isn’t ideal for busy kitchens

• Some cheaper granites can absorb moisture if not sealed properly

What to look for:

• Choose stone that fits how you use your space

• Ask about heat, UV, and moisture resistance

• For kitchens: granite and quartz are strong choices

• For bathrooms: porcelain or sealed granite work well

Stats to Know: According to Consumer Reports, 64% of buyers regret not considering long-term maintenance when choosing countertops.

Not Checking the Fabricator’s Experience

A good stone in the wrong hands still leads to problems

Even the best granite can look terrible if it’s cut or installed poorly. That’s why your fabricator matters just as much as the material itself.

Signs of inexperience:

• Poor seam alignment

• Slabs that don’t fit cabinets properly

• Uneven polish or corners that chip easily

• Weak joints or missing support under overhangs

What to check:

• Ask how long they’ve been working with stone

• Look at past projects and ask for photos

• Read real customer reviews online

• Make sure they handle both fabrication and installation (not just sales)

Pro Tip: Experienced local fabricators understand common layout issues in Winnipeg homes—like uneven walls or old cabinetry—and know how to adjust.

Not Getting a Clear Quote in Writing

Hidden fees are more common than you think

Many countertop buyers assume the price includes everything—template, delivery, installation, and sealing. But that’s not always the case.

Some companies quote low, then add fees later for:

• Edge profiles

• Extra polishing or sealing

• Delivery or staircase charges

What to do instead:

• Ask for a detailed quote that includes all steps from templating to install

• Make sure it covers tear-out of your old countertops (if needed)

• Confirm lead times so you're not left waiting for weeks

Pro Tip: A quality fabricator will always walk you through the pricing clearly. If someone avoids giving details, take it as a red flag.

Looking for Quality Stone in Winnipeg?

If you're planning to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom with granite countertops in Winnipeg, we’re here to help.

At Rockwood Stone Countertops, we:

• Only use high-quality stone sourced from trusted suppliers

• Fabricate everything locally in our Winnipeg shop

• Let you view full slabs before making a choice

• Offer full-service installation with no hidden fees

• Work with homeowners, contractors, and interior designers across Manitoba

Visit: Rockwood Stone CountertopsContact us for a free quote or showroom visit

Final Thoughts: Make the Right Choice the First Time

Stone countertops are a big investment—and they should last for years. But to get the most value, you need to avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t pick based on price alone

• See the full slab

• Choose materials that suit your climate and lifestyle

• Work with experienced fabricators

• Get your full quote in writing

By following these tips, you’ll save money, avoid stress, and enjoy a countertop that looks great and performs even better.