DIY Granite Installation

Granite Countertops: How to Install Granite Kitchen Countertops
A lot of kitchen designers and homeowners use granite countertops for kitchens to be the "gold standard. For the most sought-after natural stone countertops, granite is the one many homeowners choose when looking to upgrade their kitchens. Sharp knives won't damage it, and even a bubbling pot won't ruin it. Granite comes in a myriad of striking and subtle shades, with shades of black, white-gray, green, pink, blue, red, yellow, and Tan. Patterns can be dotted, speckled, and veined, as well as more. Each piece has its mineral makeup, meaning that every countertop is an original artwork. What Is Granite? What exactly is it? It is an igneous rock (formed through the cooling and solidification of the molten material) consisting of feldspar and quartz, and granite is among the most durable surfaces on earth. Due to the wide range of variations, It is recommended to go to the stone yard to select your piece, if it is possible to avoid any surprise. Granite Countertop Cost When it comes to the investment aspect, granite kitchen countertops usually have a significant cost. Costs will differ based on the location, project, and contractor. Generally, the more dense slabs, intricate edge fabrication, and uniform patterns will add to increased prices. One method to cut down on the price of a granite countertop is to buy the countertop you want through wholesalers. They typically cost less to a consumer than a local home improvement store for the installation and materials. If you're looking for the possibility of a warranty that will protect you from damages, it's essential to inquire with these companies what they'll be capable of offering concerning insurance. Granite Countertop Color Options Granite countertops can be as basic or as trendy according to your preferences. There are many colors, patterns, and minerals, so that finding the right shade of granite that matches the unique style of your house shouldn't be a hassle. Granite countertops can be found in various colors, from cream and white to dark forests and gray. Designs are dotted, speckled, and veined, among others. Each piece has its mineral makeup, meaning that each countertop is a distinct artwork. Visit a kitchen or home design store and peruse their collection of guidebooks and samples to find which color will work well in your kitchen. Find out if the store permits customers to borrow or purchase samples to take some home and put them in the cabinets in your kitchen.

Like any major purchase decision, be sure to take a look and feel a specimen of the slab that you'll be using in your project so that you don't make costly errors. Considerations When Choosing Granite Countertops Thickness, Overhangs, and Edges. Countertop thickness is influenced by geographical region, ranging from 3/4-inch and up to 1-1/4" (preferred). More expensive slabs will cost more. Standard overhangs are 1 inch up to 1 1/2 inches. The larger overhangs for seating or workspace may require additional support that starts with 8-12 inches. A range of edge treatments is available, including straight or beveled edges as well as rounded. Forms. Granite counters are available as tiles or slabs. Slabs. Granite slabs give a durable and seamless appearance. They are typically available in 10-foot pieces.

The seam might be necessary when your countertop is long or L-shaped, curving or arched, but it should not be evident if done correctly. Tiles. If you're in love with granite, but it's not within your budget, you should consider tiles. Although they need a little more upkeep and upkeep, they are less expensive than slabs and offer more flexibility for installation. Finishes. Three kinds of finishes are suggested to be used on granite counters. Polished. The reflective, smooth surface accentuates the color and texture to create an attractive appearance. It's the most porous choice and is ideal for spills. However, the glossy surface emphasizes any imperfections (and dust). Polished can be the most sought-after, probably due to the ease of cleaning. Honed. While it's still smooth, the finish isn't as shiny and reflective. While a honed finish may not reveal the color more, it can cut down on glare and hide imperfections. Surfaces are slightly porous. Leather.

​The finish is produced by the movement of diamond-tipped sandpaper brushes over the top, giving the appearance and feel of textured leather. Similar to polished surfaces but less porous and emphasizes the color. Similar to polished surfaces that hide streaks and crumbs. How to Install Your Own Granite Kitchen Countertops We all know that granite can be costly, But what did we say to you the installation of your granite was not just a dream and a fantastic way to cut costs and get the long-lasting, luxurious kitchen you've always wanted? If you are planning the DIY granite installation, There are a few important things to plan for. Materials Needed seam-setter 4" level angle grinder that has a diamond blade caulk gun Acrylic caulk Shims painter's tape measuring tape Two-part epoxy that is nonporous for applications. cardboard or similar material to serve as a template (optional) proper protective equipment Utility knife jab saw pencil granite sealer granite cleaner Soft cloth If you plan to install the countertops yourself, it is important to collaborate with an expert in stone fabrication for cutting the stone and delivery. It requires special tools to cut granite, and a stone fabrication shop is equipped with the tools and the expertise to cut the granite accurately. When it comes to delivery-related, granite's most impressive feature is its weak point. Granite's hardness makes it an ideal sturdy countertop. But, if handled incorrectly, it could crack easily. There are a few solutions for a damaged slab of granite. Therefore, it's best to let the transport work to experts.

Pick Out Granite It is the first thing to choose the type of granite you would like to purchase. The store will have a variety of slabs and samples so that you can observe the various colors and patterns nearby. There are also a variety of edges available, including square, bevel bullnose miter, ogee, numerous others. In addition to the countertop's surface, you'll also need to decide on the length of your countertop's overhang, as well as the style or size of the backsplash if you decide to install one. Measure for Installation After you've selected the granite and removed the countertops, you have to take precise measurements of the base cabinets and give them to the builder. Measure precisely the tops of your cabinet bases by measuring the distance between the wall and the fronts of the cabinets along the whole width of the wall. Create a Template Another more precise method to communicate the measurements to your fabricator is to construct an outline of cardboard or lauan plywood or even Mylar plastic. The template can be scrubbed with ascribing instrument to make it fit comfortably against the wall the entire length of the cabinets. Then, trace the front edge of the template. Within the template, take measurements of the exact locations of cutouts to accommodate sinks, cooktops, faucets, and soap dispensers. Ensure to not allow an area of more than 2 feet of space between cabinetry, like an overhang for the dishwasher. Also, not more than 6 inches of the overhang is not supported with 2-centimeter stones and 9 inches for 3-centimeter stones. If you're planning on installing an undermount sink, take note of this on the design template for the fabricator, who will then create a groove along the edge that runs under the sinkhole to ensure the sink clip may be secured. Additionally, make sure the fabricator "rod" cuttings use fiberglass or steel reinforcements to reinforce the narrow spaces surrounding the cutouts. After you've clarified your needs and provided your measurements, you can set dates for pick-up or the delivery date of your completed countertops. Level Base Cabinets Make sure that your cabinets are level throughout the entire length. If they are not, remove them from the bottom and then level them with shims. It's not recommended to put shims directly beneath the granite countertop since they can cause small gaps, making the stone break under pressure. Transport Granite After your countertops are cut, it's now time to take them home safely and safely, which isn't easy. Unless they're delivered, you'll need to take the countertops home from the fabrication company.

Be aware that granite is extremely weighty -- even a six-foot countertop could weigh over 400 pounds; therefore, you'll need assistance moving and transporting the countertops with care. It is important to always transport the countertops vertically instead of flat to ensure that you don't break or crack the stone. To transport granite slabs: 1. Transport them along the edges of an A-frame racking similar to how glass is transported. If you need to, create a rack with 2x4s. 2. Cover the edges of the rack using painter's tape. 3. Before removing countertops or having them transported, make sure you clear a space in the kitchen area where you can store the countertops upright and on the edge until they are ready to be installed. Install Slabs When you've got the granite slabs in your home, now is the time to put them in. First, you must dry-fit your countertop to guarantee a perfect fitting. If you lift the counter, be sure to take extra care to secure the granite at the weakest points, for example, around cutouts for cooktops or sinks. Place the slabs directly on their frames on cabinets below. A second substrate is not required to support the cabinets. If the countertop isn't in a straight line with the wall as was intended, There are two options to improve the appearance. You can either alter the wall or change the granite.

For walls made of drywall, the most straightforward and least risky method to make the countertop work is by marking the area of the wall it will hit and then employing the utility knife or jab saw to cut into the wall. If the wall is made of tougher materials like brick or tile, you'll likely need to alter the granite. For this, first, identify the part of the granite that is impacted and then remove it off the cupboards. After that, a dry-cutting diamond blade mounted using an electronic grinder gently cuts the edge until it is at the desired height, making sure to wear protective eyewear and a mask to protect against grit and dust. When you're happy with the changes, place the slabs back into place, making sure that all edges are snug and securely and securely, including the seams between slabs, if there are multiple. Join Seams If you have several slabs, it's time to put them in place. When the slabs are in a level position to the cupboards, apply painter's adhesive on both sides of the seam to prevent the mess. The butt seams will be joined with color-matched two-part epoxy, which is available at the fabricator shop. Then, you can pull the slabs tightly together. Will require a seam setting device available for rent from a variety of hardware stores. Before mixing the two-part epoxy mix, get familiar with the tool for seam setting.

The epoxy starts its setting process when mixed into two components, and you'll want to do it efficiently. Once you're all set, mix the epoxy following the directions of the manufacturer. Then, thoroughly apply it to the seam with the small knife. After you have applied the tape over the seam, place the seam setter on either one of the sides of the seam. It should be about 1 1/2 inches away from the seam. Close the screws tight until you feel resistance, then connect and switch on the auto pump; the tension can ensure the seam edges stay flat while the epoxy sets. Setters for seams also ensure it is that the edges at seams are flush with one another. When the epoxy has been set, take the setter off. After that, carefully remove any excess epoxy with the single edge razor. Attach to Cabinets Once the edges of the slabs have been joined, it's now time to fix the stone onto the cabinets. The weight of the countertop is enough to hold the stone. However, you'll want to put a dot of caulk along the bottom edges of the counter between the stone and the top of the cabinet. Do not use silicone caulk over time; the silicone caulk may get into the stone, causing staining.

Make sure to use acrylic. Final Steps Once your countertops are installed, finish by applying granite sealer on your countertops to ensure the stone is protected and will prevent any deep staining. Apply it evenly using a clean, soft cloth, ensuring that it is completely covered. Then allow it to dry for up to 24 hours. After it is sealed, proceed by putting your backsplash on, sink and installing your appliance. Maintain and clean your new countertops by using only quartz and granite cleaner. This is something you can buy at many fabrication shops. This specific cleaner will leave no traces and keep your granite countertops sparkling and fresh for many long periods.