Granite installation can create a lot of dust. Our installers do try to control the mess the best they can, but please remember that this is construction and it is by definition a messy business. Faucets : Please have ready any faucets, soap dispensers, hot water taps, disposal switches, reverse osmosis spigots and any other items that need to be drilled into the countertops.
What is the most common mistake when choosing granite countertops?
The minute your granite countertops are installed, something doesn’t look right but you can’t quite put your finger on it. It’s the most common mistake when choosing granite. Find out what it is and how to avoid making this mistake in your kitchen. Here’s an email I received with this question: Help, I don’t like my granite countertops!
How much do slab granite countertops cost?
How Much Do Granite Countertops Cost? Slab granite countertop prices range from $50 to $200 per square foot installed, with most homeowners spending $80 to $110 per square foot or between $2,185 and $4,280 total for an average sized kitchen. Your total cost will depend on the size, thickness, level, and type of granite installed.
Why choose granite for your kitchen countertops?
Because once you choose granite, you’ve maxed out your pattern quota for the kitchen. A small 4″ x 4″ granite sample plunked on top of this tile in the kitchen shop probably looked totally harmless. NOW that it’s installed with the rest of the finishes, this kitchen looks like it has an old countertop with new, current greige tile floors.
How much space do you need for a granite countertop?
Granite Installation Cost Breakdown. Your countertops should be a minimum of 24 inches deep to provide ample space and overhang. An average kitchen countertop surface is 160 inches wide and 24 inches deep, which comes out to around 27 square feet of space.
What is the downside of granite countertops?
Cons for Granite Countertops If homeowners are lax in their maintenance, the porous granite can suck up oils, juice, and wine, which will be impossible to remove. Bacteria can also harbor inside granite if not sealed properly. As Americans utilize their kitchens more, there are more chances for accidents to happen.
How hard is it to install granite countertops?
Buying and installing granite countertops If you have straight countertops with no inside corners, it's actually quite an easy DIY project. However, if your kitchen is like most, you'll have to do some cutting and seaming. But if you have basic woodworking skills, that's not as intimidating as it might sound.
Is countertop installation Dusty?
Countertop installation is a part of the construction process. Expect some noise, dust, and general interruption of the room in which they are being installed. If you will be living in the home during this process, plan accordingly to minimize the disruption on daily activities.
How long does granite countertop installation take?
It depends on the size, complexity and number of cutouts of the job. For smaller and simpler kitchens may take about 2 to 3 hours and large and complex kitchens may take 6 to 7 hours. Average sized kitchens (around 60 Square feet of counter space) will take about 4 hours from start to finish.
Should you tip counter installers?
When it comes to countertop installation, there is no set rule for how much you should tip your installer. However, as a general guideline, it is appropriate to tip 15-20% of the total bill.
What holds granite countertops in place?
Epoxy glue is the most commonly used type for granite countertop installation. It's strong enough to attach the granite to cabinets and to hold two pieces of stone together. You need something just as strong as the stone itself, and epoxy fits the bill.
Can you put appliances in before countertops?
Appliances Should Be Installed First If possible, appliances such as the stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator should be installed before the countertops. Having them in place will ensure that they're taken into account for the measurements of your counters.
Do you have to empty cabinets for countertop installation?
The cabinets located at the sink base should be completely emptied, with the top set of drawers removed. This will make it easier for our installers to gain access to the countertop without having to remove those items themselves. Kitchen or bathroom sinks should also be disconnected and removed.
How long does countertop install take?
The installation time will vary depending on the size of your kitchen and the type of countertop you choose. On average, the installation process takes 1-3 days to complete.
Is granite sealed when installed?
Granite is a Porous Material Brand new granite counters often have a sealant applied during installation. However, this sealant wears off over time, which is why reapplication is so crucial.
Do you have to put plywood under granite countertops?
When installing granite countertops, you will not need an underlayment of plywood if the granite has a thickness of 3 centimeters (about 1 1/4 inches). However, for granite with a thickness of 2 centimeters (about 3/4 inches), you will definitely need to use plywood for support.
How long will a granite countertop last?
While tile may be able to endure for 100 years or more, that doesn't take into account the gunk and grime that can accumulate between the tiles. On the other hand, granite and other natural stones can expect a lifespan of 100 years, and maybe more, without worrying about such annoyances.
Is installing countertops hard?
It's easy to install, but hard to figure out how to run the wiring if you're re-installing them.” It's also worth noting that under-cabinet lighting can cause eye-straining glare when it's aimed directly onto a highly polished stone surface. It's something to think about when you're choosing countertop material.
Can you install countertops yourself?
In general, those with proven skills and experience may be candidates for doing it themselves. For most of the rest of us, the specialization required in many types of countertop installation make it a wise choice to leave the installation to a countertop professional.
How granite countertops are installed?
1:052:50What is the Granite Installation Process? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCut out grooves on the outside of the ground underneath. So we can bolt it into place so stay thereMoreCut out grooves on the outside of the ground underneath. So we can bolt it into place so stay there for life we'll still put them in peace of of course we'll call this gap right here.
How do you move a granite countertop by yourself?
It's important to always carry the countertops in a vertical position, never horizontally flat, to avoid cracking or breaking the stone. To transport granite slabs, carry them on edge in an A-frame rack, the way glass is carried. If needed, you can make a simple rack from 2x4s.
What is the second biggest mistake people make when they choose countertops?
The second biggest mistake people make when they choose countertops is NOT shopping with the floor tile, or the countertop sample, if they are looking for floor tile. Your countertop should look happily married to the floor tile. And the only way to ensure that your kitchen is happiness is to bring that tile along.
Why is it bad to listen to people renovating?
That is because they have no idea how to help their customers with colour, all they care about is SELLING GRANITE. So, while it seems tempting to listen to the person selling the product. They do not have the vision of your house in your head you do.
Can you make a mistake when choosing granite?
Unfortunately, this kind of mistake is easy to make when you’re making decisions with small samples. Because once you choose granite, you’ve maxed out your pattern quota for the kitchen.
Is renovating messy?
Plus renovating is messy. Always best to have it behind you for that reason as well!
Does granite look good with tile?
For the most part, granite doesn’t look good with trendy , current, geometric tile. Even if it’s plain and white.
How much spacing off granite for tile?
I always us 1/8" spacing off the granite and, using a color-matched caulk on the seam, the foam was invisible. As well as hiding the gap, this also provided a base upon which the tile sits.
How many sq ft are kitchen counters?
My apologies on the typo: the kitchen counters measure 45 sq. ft.
What happens when you cut a wavy wall?
On a budget job, what usually happens with a slightly wavy wall is that they are cut slightly deep front to back, and the drywall is scored and the granite is inserted a tad into the drywall. Or else the homeowner is told to float the drywall after the fact.
Do you need caulk between granite and tile?
You're going to need a caulked joint between your tile back splash and the granite anyway. From the looks of things, with floating out your drywall as LWO described and then the thickness of your BS tiles & _thinset_ (mastic is bad, icky, gooey, nasty stuff that never really cures!), you should be able to wind up with a nice, neat, professional looking job. Without a doubt, this is a bit of a sloppy granite installation, but you got it at a very low price. $2600 for removal of the old counter, the granite itself and the installation is an incredible price! The job can easily be saved and you should have a great looking BS and counter top when all is said and done.
Can a small piece of wall be replaced?
If its a small piece it would be easy to replace and i would pressure the vendor. Also make sure your walls are square, if they are not square this could be reason of the gap.
Does tile mastic adhere to vertical walls?
Tile mastic will have better adhesion properties for vertical surfaces. It has great "grab," and this is important on those walls. Another difference: sometimes when tiling you need to build up depressions a bit with your thinset mortar. This is impossible to do with the tile mastic because it is more syrupy and has no building capabilities.
Is granite a natural stone?
Granite is a natural stone that can vary widely in color, veining and patterns. These variations often don't appear accurately on smaller sized samples. It’s also a good idea to ask the countertop company to lay out your slab so you know exactly what will color variations or veins will be shown on certain areas of your countertop and where a seam between two slabs might be placed.
Is it expensive to install granite countertops?
Purchasing and installing new granite countertops for your kitchen, bathroom or any other room is a big decision. The process of selecting, purchasing and installing new granite countertops can be overwhelming and expensive, particularly if you're not getting professional advice during the process. However, new countertops can add value ...
Step 1 - Prepare the Subfloor
Before laying down any granite flooring you must make sure the sub-floor is clean. Remove any old tiling, paint, residue, adhesives, or sand down old wood floors. Patch up any scratches, or holes in the flooring, and make sure it is free of any debris. Also use a leveling agent if the floor has any uneven spots.
Step 2 - Lay Out Tiles
Begin with a plan before you start putting down tiles permanently. Start at a corner of the area and start laying down tiles. Use the plastic spacers so you know how many tiles will fit. When you get to the places where the tiles will need to be cut, take the measurements and cut them on the wet saw.
Step 3 - Apply Mortar
Mix the mortar according to the directions on the bag. Mix to a thin, mud-like consistency. Using your trowel, lay down a thin, even layer over the surface of the area to be tiled. Covering small areas at a time, spread out the mortar with the trowel at a 45 degree angle to the surface.
Step 4 - Install Granite Flooring
Working in a smooth manner, begin laying out the tile according to your plan. Place a tile in the first corner and press down firmly in the corners. Twist the tile a little to let it get a good grip of the mortar and form a bond. Tap the tile lightly with a rubber mallet to get out any air bubbles to make sure of a firm contact.
Step 5 - Grout Tile
Mix the grout in small batches and begin spreading it out over the tile. Using a sponge, force the grout into the space between tiles as you remove the spacers. Allow the grout to cure for 72 hours and then clean off with a sponge and warm water. After the grout is dry, seal it with grout sealer for protection against water and stains.
Why is granite so expensive?
Slab granite countertops can cost a lot because it has to be quarried, shipped to the US, cut, finished, edged, delivered, and installed. Every stage of the process costs more in labor and shipping costs, and because of its weight, slabs can fall and crack, making them unusable. That wastage is also factored into business costs.
How much does it cost to install granite countertops?
The total cost of installation for granite countertops is $2,185 to $4,280 in a medium-sized kitchen with 27 square feet of counter space. Depending on the level of granite you select, you will likely spend between $50 and $200 per square foot for both materials and labor or an average of $93 per square foot installed.
How much does granite tile cost?
Instead of getting a custom slab of granite as your countertop surface, you could select granite tile which costs between $6 to $10/SF. These tiles are created from leftovers of previous cuts from slabs.
What is countertop fabricator?
A countertop fabricator is a person who takes the slab from the stone yard and cuts it to your exact requirements before finishing, edging, and delivering it. Choose at least three fabricators near you and have them come out to measure your counter space for a quote. They will direct you to stone yards they work with to choose your slab (s), and then they’ll come up with your quote based on the slab price and your desired custom work.
How much does quartz cost?
Quartz countertops cost similar to granite and are gaining more popularity year by year. Low-grade quartz countertop costs $50 to $60 per square foot, mid-grade costs $60 to $80 per square foot, and high-grade is priced at $80 to $100 or more per square foot.
How deep should a kitchen countertop be?
An average kitchen countertop surface is 160 inches wide and 24 inches deep, which comes out to around 27 square feet of space. Here are the average installation costs for that amount of countertop space:
What are the colors of granite?
Edges: Straight, eased, beveled, bullnose, or rounded. The variety of colors and patterns that you can see in granite slab countertops come from the presence of the minerals biotite, muscovite, and pyroxene. Biotite is usually either black, brown, or green, depending on the levels of iron also present.
Why do you need an underlayment for granite?
Some people use an underlayment when installing heavy countertops. An underlayment is plywood that lends support and stability. Many wonder if it’s even necessary to have an underlayment, as it can unnecessarily complicate an installation. For thinner pieces of granite, the plywood absorbs pressure to prevent cracks and contribute to longevity.
Where to put floating granite counters?
Floating granite countertops can be installed in two different places. They could either be up against walls on one or more sides, or they could be put on top of an island. Knowing where you want this type of counter is essential in determining how you want to secure it and how much overhang you desire. Many people would automatically assume that these types of counters would be going in a kitchen, but they could also be installed in bathrooms, rec rooms, and laundry rooms.
How thick should an island countertop be?
It’s recommended that if a countertop has a thickness of one and a quarter inches, it can hang eight to 10 inches over. However, without the proper support, anything past six inches is hazardous. If you plan to have people sit at the island countertop, you’ll want the overhang to be at least ten inches and you should install support measures ...
How to determine how much overhang you want?
When determining how much overhang you want, you need to note the granite’s thickness and top width. Without support, you have to be careful as to how much overhang you allow. With the proper support, your options are more flexible.
What is the best granite countertop?
For best results, opt for the three-centimeter or inch-and-a-quarter granite. Also known as full thickness granite, this option is often the only one contractors or installers offer. The two-centimeter version is more susceptible to cracking and breaking which would result in a premature fixing or replacing of countertop materials. It also requires additional support in an effort to prevent these issues. In this case, you may think you’re spending less up front, but you’ll pay for it in the long run by having to address these issues.
How thick is a bracket for a kitchen island?
They range from seven to 24 inches, with 11 options in total. Once you’ve determined which thickness you need, you’ll want to install a bracket every 24 inches, maximum. It’s best to divide the island up with marks for these distances before beginning.
Can granite be moved off an island?
When installing countertops, especially on a kitchen island, you want to make sure they’re immovable. They are heavy and though it would be difficult to move a slab off of the island completely, instability could cause it to fall or become uneven. Something that heavy could cause irreversible damage to a person or surrounding area. Thus, it’s important to understand how to install and secure a floating granite countertop.
How many stones are in the 2020-2021 granite collection?
Either do we. Our 2020-2021 season granite collection offers you a choice of over 200 stones of various styles and colors. Have a pick, and our experts will take care of your granite countertop installation!
Can you cut granite with a CNC?
We cut your granite to the precise measurements taken in your home using a CNC Machine. This advanced technology provides invisible seams and perfect cutouts for sinks and other appliances, meaning there is no need for additional cutting or sanding of the stone on site.
The Final Touches
What Not to Do
The Last Step Before Installation
Information For The Templater
During Installation
- Granite installation can be a messy process. You should expect noise, dust, and foot traffic. To make things easier on the installers, clear a path between the entryway of your home and the room where the countertops are going. During installation, it’s best to stay present just in case decisions have to be made—but remember to stay out of the way ...
Your Granite Installation