Try before you buy. Test your sample stones.

by **Lindsay** on Wed Nov 21, 2007 9:05 pm

I recently asked for a quote for granite worktops (not from T Foley I must point out) and was offered a sample of the stone that the supplier recommended. It was sent out free of charge and looked very attractive.
It was light coloured, with grey and silver reflective flecks. I was a little bit concerned beacaue it was so light coloured that it may stain so decided to try a few spot tests. Tomato Ketchup, red wine, vinegar, fruit juice, Cola, beetroot, bleach. All the items that my 4 young grandchildren might spill + a few more for good luck.
Shock, horror, within minutes the surface had suffered dull patches and I could feel that the finish was ruined. How would I have felt if this had of happened to my beautiful new surfaces for which I had just paid several thousand £'s?
I have since received similar looking samples from T Foleys - Silestone and Prestige Quartz and repeated the spot tests + a few scratch tests too.
They all passed with flying colours.
Just goes to show not all stones that look the same are the same quality or have the same durability and stain resistance so why not do your own spot tests and avoid disappointment later.

by **timfoley** on Thu Nov 22, 2007 5:42 pm

I must confess that it was only through our installations co-ordinator, Emma, that I heard about Margaret's test which I've since christened the "Lindsay Test", and I just had to discover more.
So it was that I contacted Margaret and learned that she undertook rigorous and varied tests on a number of worktop samples from various suppliers before even considering them undertaking the work.
I absolutely applaud this as I have always been big on undertaking research before contemplating offering any products over our website.
I encouraged Margaret to make this post and it's great to know that our own surfaces, samples which are available free of charge, came up trumps after being subjected to the "Lindsay Test" and this reinforces our belief that quartz are the most resilient of surfaces for use in the kitchen.
Carry on the good work Margaret and maybe Which magazine could take a leaf out of your book here and you might possibly hire out your services to them.

Tim

by **Lindsay** on Sat Mar 01, 2008 2:45 pm

Further to my previous post, I would just like to say I have now had my worktops fitted. I chose the Silestone pattern Stellar Snow and I am absolutely delighted with them.
From my initial email, meeting and speaking with Emma, through to the templating and fitting, the service of the T Foley Interiors staff was friendly, courteous and professional. The pricing was very competitive, staff were punctual and communicated well at all stages. I highly recommend this company and will certainly use them again for other projects.
My 20 year old kitchen units have been transformed creating a modern kitchen work space.

Try before you buy. Test your sample stones.

Try before you buy. Test your sample stones.

Worktops now fitted - absolutely delighted

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