A Guide To Installing Granite Countertops
by GrantS on May.26, 2009, under Uncategorized
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Tools required:
- Straight edge
- Spirit level
- Tri-square
- Drill bits with suitable drill for granite
- Suitable saw (Hand held) for granite
- Jig Saw (for wood)
- Polishing heads
- Adhesive (Araldite / Polyurethane)
1.Prepare the base: The existing cabinets should be firmly fixed in place before the installation of a granite countertop. Use a tri-square to make sure the cabinet corners are square and level by using a spirit level.
2.Make the sink cut-out (if not pre-cut): The cut can be done for a drop-in or undermount sink. The sink cut out has to be done prior to the installation of the slab. Mark the surface using the manufacturer's template and leave sufficient margin from the front/rear edge.Set the slab on a work bench and cut the granite along the mark. Ideally, cutting the slab should be done while outside to avoid excess dust.Polish the inside edge of the slab.
3.Lay the granite slabs – Once the base cabinets are laid out and secured, you are ready to do the installation of the countertop slabs. Cut the granite slabs to desired length and prepare the sides as required. Place the slab on the cabinet and align it square to the front of the cabinet. Check the level and make necessary adjustments. You have to remove the slab first, apply glue to the cabinet frame, then place the slab on the cabinet and let it set. You have to make adjustments before the glue hardens. Secure the slab to the frame with steel brackets from underneath. Continue the installation of the other slab by selecting the best piece from the kit for the counter top.
4.Butt the seam joints – Thoroughly clean the edges that are to be seamed. You need to make sure that the edges are straight and square to the slab. Properly align the edge and surface of the two sections. Granite installers always use araldite for the seam joint and butt the slabs tightly. You need to clean the surface at the joint with mineral spirit to remove excess adhesive. Use clamps to bind the two slabs together during the hardening process.
5.Seal the Countertop: After the installation is complete, the surface should be sealed to protect the countertop from staining. Apply the sealer on the top surface and allow the granite surface at least 10 minutes to absorb it. Clear the excess sealer with a clean cloth, following manufacturer’s recommendation where applicable.Allow the adhesives to dry for 48h. Protect the granite surface by applying a second coat against mildew and bacteria. Sealer for granite counter top should be applied every 1-2 years depending on usage and wear. The appearance of your granite countertop will not change if you use water-based sealer.This will help to make maintenance simple.





