Frequently Asked Questions


Can I visit your shed to view stone?

We’re a working shed and don’t currently have a showroom with a large range of stone on display. However, we’re more than happy to meet with you to discuss your project and help guide you through stone options. Just reach out to make an appointment.

If you'd like to view stone in person, we recommend visiting our trusted wholesalers:

  • South Pacific Stone – They stock YDL Stone and a selection of natural stone.

  • Cosentino – By appointment, you can view their range including Dekton, Sensa, and Silestone.

  • Cairns Marble & Granite - A selection of local Chillagoe marble and Australian stone. By appointment only.

Let us know what you’re interested in, and we can point you in the right direction and help coordinate a visit.

What types of stone do you work with?

We work with a wide range of engineered, mineral, porcelain and natural stone products including YDL Stone, Smartstone, Silestone, Dekton, Sensa, Alpha Stone, Caesarstone and various granites, marbles, and quartzite. If you're not sure which material is right for your project, we’re happy to help you choose based on your style, functional needs, and budget.

What are your turnaround times?

From final measure to installation, most projects are completed within 7–10 business days, depending on the complexity and material availability. We’ll give you a clear timeline once your job is booked in.

What’s your process?

Here’s how we work, step by step:

  1. Send your plans – Share your cabinet drawings (or a rough sketch with measurements), your preferred stone, and any cutouts (sink, cooktop, etc.).

  2. Get a quote – We'll send a quote based on your details.

  3. Approve & pay deposit – Once approved, pay a deposit and let us know your expected cabinetry install date.

  4. Measure & fabricate – After your cabinets are in, we’ll do a site measure, then cut your stone to fit.

  5. Install – We install your stone. Turnaround is usually 7–10 business days after measure.

If you have any questions along the way, we’re here to help.

Can I work with you directly for stone supply and installation?

Yes, working directly with us for stone supply and installation is an option. This approach allows direct involvement on your project, and, in some cases, reduced costs.

Alternatively, working through your builder or cabinet maker provides benefits such as professional oversight of the overall project, coverage under their QBCC home warranty and coordination with cabinet makers’ schedules to keep everything running smoothly.

Whichever option you choose, we’re happy to work with you to ensure a smooth and successful installation.

What area’s do you service?

Custom Stone Surfaces is based in Smithfield, Cairns, and we service all of Cairns and the surrounding areas. This includes but is not limited to:

Port Douglas, Mossman, Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, Kewarra Beach, Clifton Beach, Yorkeys Knob, Holloways Beach, Redlynch, Freshwater, Edge Hill, Whitfield, Cairns City, Bungalow, Mooroobool, Mount Sheridan, Edmonton, Gordonvale, and the Tablelands including Mareeba, Atheron, Tolga and Ravenshoe.

We have completed specialised projects requiring expertise in complex work — including curved edge profiles, commercial or architecturally designed stone projects. For these jobs, we’re happy to travel beyond our local area, servicing clients from Rockhampton north, including Mackay and Townsville.

If you’re unsure whether we service your area, feel free to get in touch — we’re happy to confirm and assist wherever possible.

Do you supply the stone, or just fabricate and install?

We do both! We can source stone from our network of suppliers or work with material you’ve already chosen. Either way, we handle fabrication and installation to ensure everything fits perfectly and meets our high standards.

Can you help me choose a stone?

Absolutely. We can discuss your design preference, budget, and how the surface will be used, then guide you toward the best options. We can also suggest where to view slabs in person so you can make an informed decision.

How much does a stone benchtop cost?

The cost of a stone benchtop depends on the type of stone, the total size, and any additional features you select. Extras such as undermount sink cutouts, waterfall ends, or premium edge profiles (like 45mm mitred edges) can increase the overall price.

Quotes are calculated based on the measurements you provide, which determine how many slabs are required. Even small additions or removals — like a vanity top — can affect the number of slabs needed and, therefore, the final cost. We’re happy to review your plans and offer recommendations to help you achieve the best outcome within your budget.

For an accurate quote, please send us your cabinetry plans or rough measurements along with your preferred stone type.

Do you remove existing benchtops?

Yes, we can arrange removal and disposal of existing benchtops as part of the installation process. Just let us know in advance so we can include it in your quote as this not included as a standard service.

Do you work with porcelain and large format tiles?

Yes, we work with porcelain and other large format tiles. These materials require specialist handling and precise installation techniques. Our team has completed the necessary technical training, and we have the right tooling to support efficient and high-quality large format tile installation.

What edge profiles do you offer?

Our standard edge profiles include arris and pencil round. Waterfall ends and 45mm mitred edges are popular choices that add both value and visual appeal to your stone surfaces. We’ve also worked with designers and architects on specialised projects featuring sharknose and bullnose edging. Feel free to reach out to discuss your specific needs.