5 Things You Should Know about Your Granite Countertop Installation

If you’ve been considering remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, your countertops are probably the first thing on your mind. Getting granite countertops installed is a big decision because an excellent granite countertop will give you decades of use.

Since you’ll be using this countertop for so many years, it’s important to choose the ideal slab and to prepare your kitchen as much as you can to ensure a hassle-free installation.

If this is your first time with granite countertop installation, or if you’ve done it before but want to be as prepared as possible, here are a few things you should keep in mind as you go through the process of installing new granite countertops.

1. How to Choose Your Granite 

Granite is a very diverse stone, and each slab will have a unique structure. The veins of color through the stone will be what defines the look of your new countertops.

When choosing your stone, always view full granite slabs, as opposed to small sample tiles. It’s difficult to get an idea of what you’re truly getting unless you can see the entire product.

If you’re committed to a certain color scheme, consider bringing samples of your other design elements, such as backsplash tiles and sink fixtures, into the showroom. You can compare them to your new granite countertops in the same lighting, so you can be sure that you achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

2. Remove Existing Countertops

Before we can install your new countertops, you’ll need to remove any previous countertops that remain. The base cabinets will need to be completely bare on top. Once the area is clear, gently clean the area of any dust or remnants.

You don’t want to wait until installation day to find out about any unforeseen complications. Ask your contractor, or a representative from your installation company, to supervise the removal of your old countertops. Your granite countertop installation will go more smoothly if your installation company is already aware of any problems.

If you have a specific design in mind, choosing a company with digitalized measuring and cutting technology can differentiate between a great installation and a perfect one. The better your new granite slabs fit over your cabinets, the better they will endure over the years to come.

3. Create a Clean and Sage Installation Site

Before we can bring your new countertops into your home, make sure you’ve created the best possible conditions for your granite countertop installation.

Before the installation team arrives, make sure there is a clear path between your door and your kitchen or bathroom. Learn the locations of any gas or water valves so that they can be disconnected when the team prompts you to do so.

Also, you’ll need to keep the installation site clear of nonessential people. Make sure any young children or pets are kept clear of the area. If any other construction is occurring in your house on installation day, they may need to stop working, at least until our team has carried the granite into the house and set up their equipment.

However, one essential person to have on site is your contractor. Make sure they can attend, or if you are not working with a contractor, you should remain close by the site yourself. This way, the installation team can defer to you if they have any questions or concerns.

4. Respect the Process

The granite countertop installation process will take two to five hours, and it may come with some mess, noise, and inconvenience.

Cover any appliances or furniture that’s still in the area so that they will be kept clean of dust and debris during your granite countertop installation process. If you or anyone in your family has dust allergies, they may need to avoid the installation room.

Once we’ve installed your granite countertops, we will need a thorough investigation to ensure we have completed the job to your satisfaction.

5. Ask about the Maintenance of Your New Countertop

Once the team has finished the job, make sure you understand how to clean and care for your new granite countertops properly. With proper maintenance, granite countertops can last a lifetime, so learning to care for them is essential.

Ready to Install

Think you’re ready to install some beautiful new granite countertops? Our stone fabrication experts are ready to make your dream kitchen or bathroom a reality, from selecting your stone to installation.

If you’re ready to take the plunge into granite countertop installation, contact us at info@nckb.com or call us at 510-347-1818.