Granite is a popular natural stone and a great choice for any home. Kitchen counters made of granite are prized for their natural beauty, durability, and easy maintenance. However, the installation process can be difficult and frustrating if you’re not properly prepared.
To prepare for granite installation you should make sure your kitchen cabinets are empty, protect nearby objects from dust, remove any existing countertops, and have the sinks and faucets ready to be fitted.
Whether you’re renovating your existing kitchen or building your dream home, it’s always better to be prepared. Continue reading to learn some tips on the best ways to get your kitchen and home ready for granite countertops.
Tips to Prepare for Granite Countertops
Choose a type of granite and measure your kitchen
The first step in the process is to choose a new granite countertop. Granite comes in a variety of colors and veins, and has different edging styles and finishes to choose from. Choose something that matches the style of your kitchen and other objects like cabinets, sinks and stove tops.
After you pick a favorite style and color of granite, you can have the kitchen measured. Depending on the process, you may want to have the counter space measured first so you can get an estimate on how much the new counter will cost.
Clear the cabinets and kitchen
Anything inside the cabinets like dishes, pots, pans, utensils and other kitchen items needs to be removed prior to the day of installation. The area above the cabinets should also be completely cleared. Installers need full access to all of the cabinets in case they need to remeasure, add shims or add an internal structure to support the weight of the granite counter.
Granite slabs are a natural stone and are very heavy. If the weight of the granite countertop isn’t distributed properly, bowing, cracking or damage to the underlying cabinets will occur.
Prepare the rest of your home
In addition to clearing the kitchen, you should make sure any connected parts of the house are free of clutter. Workers need to carry the granite and other materials into the kitchen, and anything that obstructs their path will slow down the installation process.
It’s also a good idea to cover any nearby furniture, electronics or other delicate objects with a tarp or plastic sheeting. Cutting and sanding granite sends large amounts of dust into the air, so it’s wise to plan in advance and protect your home.
Remove existing countertops
If the house is still under construction and this is the first countertop, then naturally you can skip this process. But if your granite countertops are part of renovating a finished kitchen, then you’ll have to remove the old countertops before the new ones can be installed. This might be done on the same day by granite installers or done separately by yourself or another contractor depending on the type of countertop.
Remove plumbing fixtures
Another step to prepare your kitchen is removing sinks and faucets. If the house is still being built, you may not have sinks in place yet. However, it’s very important that you have the plumbing fixtures unattached but on hand the day your granite counters are installed.
With the kitchen plumbing available, workers can make sure the countertop fits with the sink and faucets and cut or shape the new countertops as needed. A related and valuable tip is to have the water turned off. This way, faucets can be placed or removed without the added mess of water leaks and puddles.
Should you be at home during the installation?
You’ll want to make sure you’re home and available on the day your granite counters are installed. Workers may want to confirm the finish and style you’ve chose or consult on a last-minute decision. Installation is usually a single day of work, taking anywhere from two to eight hours.
Countertop Installation Done Right
Ready to install new countertops? Best Granite and Marble in Livonia are pros at fabricating, delivering and installing countertops the right way. Our countertop solutions include granite, quartz, marble and porcelain, with an extensive selection for you to choose from.
When you visit our countertop store and showroom you will be greeted by a talented and friendly staff that’s ready to help bring your kitchen remodel to life. Our extensive experience in countertop design and installation yields impressive results over and over. Your granite or quartz countertops will instantly change your kitchen and our installation services will prove why we are a favorite throughout the Metro area. Start with a Free consultation today!