Have you picked out
new granite countertops for your kitchen? You may be excited to transform the space with a stunning,
durable new counter. Here’s what to expect when installing granite countertops
so you can make the necessary preparations.
On Installation Day
Schedule your granite countertop installation for a day when
you’ll be at home. The team will go over the process with you before work
begins and request your approval once complete. Here’s how to prepare for the
crew’s arrival:
- Clear off the counters, if present, to make sure
they’re ready for removal. (If the installer requires the old counters to be
removed prior to installation day, make sure the task is complete.)
- Keep small children and pets out of the way for
the day.
- Cover furniture and textiles to protect them
from dust.
- Instruct the driver to park as close to the
entrance as possible. Then, clear a path from the door to the installation site.
- If other contractors are busy completing other
projects, ask them to clear the area momentarily while the stone slabs are
carried inside.
Granite Countertop Installation Process
Depending on the size and complexity of your countertops,
the process may take around three to seven hours to complete. You’re welcome to
watch, but you don’t need to remain in the room if you have other things to do.
Here’s what the installation process entails:
- Cutting
holes: Transporting stone with openings for sinks and cooktops would increase
the risk of breakage, so the installation team usually cuts holes onsite. This
is done before carrying the slab inside. Then, on-the-spot adjustments can be
made to ensure a perfect fit.
- Leveling
the counter: Level cabinets make it easier to install granite countertops,
but small adjustments can be made using shims. Careful attention to detail
ensures your counters are level and properly installed.
- Seams and
caulking: Epoxy is used to glue the countertop to the cabinets below, as
well as to seal the seams between slabs. The color is selected carefully to
help the seams blend in. Before the epoxy dries, the installer scrapes away any
excess with a razor blade for a smooth, concealed finish.
- Final
review: The crew tidies up, wiping everything down to remove dust and
debris before asking for your approval. Once you are completely satisfied with a
job well done, the team packs up and leaves you to enjoy your beautiful new
granite countertops.
Now that you know what to expect when installing granite
countertops, you may be eager to begin. The team at United Granite is well
qualified for the job, with 22 years of experience serving Virginia, Maryland,
DC, and New Jersey. Our extensive inventory of natural and engineered stone gives
you a vast selection of counters to choose from and allows for one of the
shortest lead times in the industry. Contact us in
Alexandria, Chantilly, or Fredericksburg, VA, or send us an email for more information
about granite countertop installation.