Installing Granite Countertops
Installing a granite countertop is moderately difficult, but with patience and preparation, it can be done. Granite is an extremely hard surface that is heat resistant, but it does need to be sealed because it will absorb stains. Granite countertops also raise a home's resale value.
Granite will enhance your home with an elegant, natural feel to the kitchen, and they are a beautiful, long-lasting addition. Cutting granite is difficult, so it is important to have the selection pre-cut from where you purchased it. They will cut out the shapes for your sink(s) and any curves or corners, making a custom fit.
You Need
- Wet saw with diamond blade
- Tape Measure
- Screwdrivers
- Epoxy Glue
- Adhesive
- Putty knife
- Clamps
- Flatbar
- Help with lifting
- Measure the countertops. If you decide to cut the granite yourself, you’ll need a wet saw water fed with a diamond blade and large outdoor workspace. You’ll also need a grinder to finish the job. If the granite is ½ inch or less, use a seven inch blade or larger. The job will be messy, so do it where you don’t mind splashing about. You will need to cut and polish all of the stone to fit the countertop area, and smooth all the edges before you begin. It’s easier to let your supplier to do this.
- Remove all the fixtures and countertops.
- Spread the appropriate epoxy for the granite on the surface the marble will cover.
- Secure the help of as many people as you can. Marble is extremely heavy and can weigh as much as 600 pounds. Also, it will be in one large piece.
- Install the sink by gluing it to the underside of the granite countertop. Secure it into place with clamps and a long flatbar to hold until the glue dries.
- Seal the granite with a special protective spray. You need to do this yearly to keep out odors and stains.