How to install the granite countertops to your home?

As is known to most of us, granite is an extremely hard and heat-resistant material and its installation calls for some skills. To install granite countertops will require tools like wet saw with diamond blade, tape measure, screwdrivers, flat bar, putty knife and clamps. You should also keep ready epoxy glue and necessary adhesive.

Take the measurements for the granite countertop you wish to install. You have to cut the granite to size using a wet saw with a water-fed diamond blade and then use a grinder for the final change. If the granite is less than 1/2 inch thick, you may use a 7-inch blade. Remember never to cut granite with a dry cut.

Make sure you cut and polish all the granite to fit the countertop area and smooth the edges before you begin installation. As cutting the granite calls for specialized skills and special tools, it is advisable you avoid doing it yourself.  Instead, ask the granite supplier to deliver the slab cut to your measurements. The granite supplier will visit your home, create a template, and bring it to his yard to cut the stone to size. The stone supplier will also use hand held grinding and polishing tools to finish the edges.

The pre-installation steps include removing the existing countertop, so that the new one can be installed. You need to remove any attachments and basins as well. The area where you want to install the granite countertop should be made clear beforehand. Remove also the dishwasher if it becomes necessary. Shut off the water and   disconnect the electric and the plumbing. Once you remove the old countertop, you should first reinstall the dishwasher before you place the granite countertop.

Get the place ready for installation by removing all the old fixtures including any old sink that is there. You can either glue in or screw on the sink to the frame by using a putty knife to loosen the glue. Before starting the granite counter installation, it is critically important to strengthen the area by using metal rods and plywood. Granite is hard and of heavyweight and thus a fragile support system will not be able to handle the granite's weight. So, make the designated area strong enough to hold granite taking professional help, if necessary.

Spread the appropriate epoxy for granite onto the tops of the cabinet. Carry the countertop into the house with the help of some sturdy people. Please know the countertop is extremely heavy and may weigh as much as 600 pounds.

Install the sink that mounted beneath the pre-cut granite slab. Use the appropriate epoxy adhesive to glue the sink to the bottom side of the granite. Fasten it into place with clamps and use a long flat bar to hold it until the epoxy dries.

Install the backsplash by using an adhesive to glue it to the wallboard. You must then seal the granite with a special spray. In fact, you will have to do this ritual once a year to prevent it from absorbing oils and to keep your granite slab shining and safe.