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A mason lays brick or stone together, sometimes with mortar in between the bricks and stones, and sometimes without mortar, also called a dry-stack or surface bonding. Examples of work masons do include:

• Brick, stone, or cement block houses and buildings

• Freestanding stone or brick walls

• Chimneys with wood-burning fireplaces

• Cement block basement or crawl space walls

Granite and marble compare well against each other in terms of price, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Deciding which one is better depends on your personal style and preference. Both materials resist damage like chips and cracks well. You should seal both material types against staining and etching, but they’re still susceptible if oil, wine, coffee, tomato sauce, or juice are left on the countertop long enough. As material and installation costs range similarly, the deciding factor is your budget, design, and preferences.

It is advisable to have stone countertops inspected every few years, especially if damage is noticed. Regular maintenance and inspection help catch and resolve issues early, extending the countertops' lifespan.

No, minor quartz stains are usually not permanent. Addressing spills on your countertop quickly can prevent the stain from worsening. Any remaining stains can generally be removed with a quartz-safe cleaner or a mixture of dish soap and water applied with a soft microfiber cloth. Severe stains may need professional treatment—and, in severe cases, countertop repair or replacement.