Granite Countertops Installation

Granite is a naturally occurring material and is the hardest substance that can be used for kitchen countertops. Granite countertops are gaining popularity in the modern-day kitchens mainly because of its high durability and easy maintenance. Another reason is that it is found in a wide range of colors and patterns. While planning for granite countertops installation, most people get confused about which granite color will suit their kitchen decor. The important aspects that need to be taken into account while doing this selection are the colors of the walls, kitchen cabinets, kitchen appliances, etc.

Installing Granite Countertops

The task of installing a granite countertop should be done by professional who has the right training as well as equipment to carry out the task. You can prepare the work area by removing the old countertops, sink, range tops and any other appliances. Then the steps followed by the installers are as follows:

Steps#1: The first step is the measurement of the cabinet where the installation will take place. Then they create templates for installation. Kraft paper works are best for making such templates. At that time, they will be able to tell you the locations of the seams. Efforts should be made to make the number of seams as less as possible because even if the joints are fitted properly the lines of the stone will be visible.

Step#2: A plywood of three-fourth inch should be fitted in the top of the cabinet in order to provide some extra support to the granite. The plywood should be cut exactly as per the dimension of the cabinet so that it does not have any overhang. Then it is fitted to the cabinet frame with screws.

Step#3: The biggest challenge is to set the granite slab on the sink counter. A plywood is placed to cover the entire sink and an outline of the sink opening is drawn on it. Then a hole is made on the plywood according to the drawn line in order to get the shape of the sink. Then the granite slab is holed up precisely as per the rim of the sink with the help of a diamond blade and is laid on the countertop. The remaining slabs are then cut as per the measurements of the templates and are placed on the countertop.

Step#4: Once all the slabs are placed on the countertop, it's time to seal up the joints and edges of the slab. The edges should be treated to get a smooth finish perimeter. If you are looking for a specific patterns at the edges, then it will be added to the edges. A special penetrating sealer is applied around the sink rim for the purpose of waterproofing the gap that lies in between the sink and the countertop. A penetrating sealer and polish is applied to the surface of the newly installed countertop to give a shiny finish to it.

Granite Countertops Installation Cost

When you have decided to install granite countertops for kitchen remodeling, then you should know the cost of the installation process. Granite is one the most expensive material to be used for kitchen countertops. Granite is sold in the form of slabs and the cost is determined by the area of the countertops on which it will be installed. It includes the areas to be cut out for sink and kitchen appliances. Roughly, the starting price of granite slab is about $60 per square foot. It may vary with color, patterns and fabrication of the slab. If you do not like the standard edge pattern of the slab and want a specially designed edge, then you have to shell out extra money. The installation cost depends on the shape of the countertops. If it has a complicated structure, then you have to pay a higher price. Other factors that determine the price are the cost of transportation, templates, cutting, polishing and final installation.

Granite countertops add warmth and visual appeal to the overall kitchen design. It's really amazing to see how a heavy piece of slab can transform the countertop so beautifully. The best part about this countertop material is that it will suit any kind of kitchen designs.