Granite Countertop Installation Techniques
Here are some helpful techniques that you can apply while installing granite countertops.
Step one: Initial prep work If you are replacing the countertop the first step is to remove the old countertops and prepare the area afresh.
Before removing the old countertop you need to take accurate measurement that will help you create a template that will be used to prepare the new granite slabs.
This is a delicate process and you need to have an electrician and a plumber close by to disconnect and later re-connect the power lines and the drainage system.
During the installing of the granite slabs you need another pair of strong arms to help you lift the slabs and this should be done with outmost care because granite is brittle and you can damage the edges or split it in two.
I would recommend using the 3cm slab over the 2 cm because you will not need to use plywood for reinforcement.
Another advantage of using the 3cm granite slabs is you get to minimize the seams at the edge which can be an eye sore.
Step two: Installing the granite countertop This is when you need to consult the template you previously prepared to make sure the granite slabs you are installing match the cuts you made and the sewer opening.
You also need to test the cut for the undermount sink to make sure they fit accurately.
If you have new appliances or wires make sure they are well position before the you install the granite countertop and conceal them.
During the installation make sure you have drilled the correct number of holes and in precise location for the faucet.
You may also want to have overhangs especially if you have a bar top so make sure you support it properly using steel plates or bracelets.
Step three: Join the granite Slabs Make sure you level the granite slabs, you can use the 1 or ΒΌ screws to adjust the height of the slab from below.
You may also need to use the level to make sure you get the slabs in a straight line and thus eliminating errors.
While joining the granite slabs you will always have a gap of about 1/16 which is called the seam, it's hard to avoid but if you must have one place it in the middle of the sink where it's less visible.
There are is a way to cover it the seam, you need to mix polyester resin with coloring pigments that resemble the granite slab and apply on the gap and this will it less visible.
Once this is done add a hardener and smooth it with a seam stone to level it and remove the high spots or uneven surfaces.
Step four: Decide on the Backsplash When dealing with backsplash you have two options, you may decide to use the granite slabs or go with the granite tiles.
For instance if you decide to use the granite slabs then it's advisable to choose a full granite backlash especially if you have a bar top countertop.
To reduce the cost you can use the granite tiles as your preferred material for the backsplash.
Step Five: Winding it up The last step is sealing the granite countertop with a penetrating stone sealer which will make is less likely to stain.
This should be done at least once a year and for heavily used kitchens more often.
Step one: Initial prep work If you are replacing the countertop the first step is to remove the old countertops and prepare the area afresh.
Before removing the old countertop you need to take accurate measurement that will help you create a template that will be used to prepare the new granite slabs.
This is a delicate process and you need to have an electrician and a plumber close by to disconnect and later re-connect the power lines and the drainage system.
During the installing of the granite slabs you need another pair of strong arms to help you lift the slabs and this should be done with outmost care because granite is brittle and you can damage the edges or split it in two.
I would recommend using the 3cm slab over the 2 cm because you will not need to use plywood for reinforcement.
Another advantage of using the 3cm granite slabs is you get to minimize the seams at the edge which can be an eye sore.
Step two: Installing the granite countertop This is when you need to consult the template you previously prepared to make sure the granite slabs you are installing match the cuts you made and the sewer opening.
You also need to test the cut for the undermount sink to make sure they fit accurately.
If you have new appliances or wires make sure they are well position before the you install the granite countertop and conceal them.
During the installation make sure you have drilled the correct number of holes and in precise location for the faucet.
You may also want to have overhangs especially if you have a bar top so make sure you support it properly using steel plates or bracelets.
Step three: Join the granite Slabs Make sure you level the granite slabs, you can use the 1 or ΒΌ screws to adjust the height of the slab from below.
You may also need to use the level to make sure you get the slabs in a straight line and thus eliminating errors.
While joining the granite slabs you will always have a gap of about 1/16 which is called the seam, it's hard to avoid but if you must have one place it in the middle of the sink where it's less visible.
There are is a way to cover it the seam, you need to mix polyester resin with coloring pigments that resemble the granite slab and apply on the gap and this will it less visible.
Once this is done add a hardener and smooth it with a seam stone to level it and remove the high spots or uneven surfaces.
Step four: Decide on the Backsplash When dealing with backsplash you have two options, you may decide to use the granite slabs or go with the granite tiles.
For instance if you decide to use the granite slabs then it's advisable to choose a full granite backlash especially if you have a bar top countertop.
To reduce the cost you can use the granite tiles as your preferred material for the backsplash.
Step Five: Winding it up The last step is sealing the granite countertop with a penetrating stone sealer which will make is less likely to stain.
This should be done at least once a year and for heavily used kitchens more often.
