Countertop installation is a complex process that involves selecting materials and installers, measurements, fabrication, site preparation, installation, and cleanup. What looks like a straightforward task can become stressful if you don’t prepare adequately. You should treat the installation like any other home renovation and prepare accordingly. Here’s what to expect when installing countertops:
Countertop Selection
Installing new countertops begins with deciding what you want to install. You’ll encounter various options, including granite, marble, quartz, and other hard surfaces. The surfaces are available in different colors, patterns, finishes, and edge profiles. You’ll also need to select an experienced contractor to handle the installations. If you’re unsure which countertop to install, ask your kitchen/bathroom remodeler for ideas.
Measure Your Space
Once you select the material and contractor, the installer will measure your space and make templates for the project. The contractor will measure the current and future space, noting surrounding features like cabinetry, faucets, and electrical outlets. All measurements must be accurate so your new countertop is cut and installed correctly. If there’s an existing countertop, the contractor may have to rip it apart before taking measurements.
Countertop Fabrication
Fabrication is all about cutting, edging, polishing, and quality-checking the material so it meets your specifications and templates. Modern installers map the countertop template into design software to produce 3D visuals of the outcome. If you approve the rendered countertop, the contractor will proceed to cut and finish the stones. Some projects involve onsite fabrication so the countertop fits correctly.
Site Preparation
Before installation begins, the contractor will remove existing countertops and prepare the site for the new one. If the countertop sits on a cabinet, the contractor will secure the cabinets to the wall or floor. The top surface should be level to allow the countertop to hug tightly on top. You may also need to call other professionals to disconnect the electrical and plumbing fixtures. Make sure the area around the installation site is clear by keeping clutter, pets, and kids away.
Installation Day
The big day involves fitting your new countertop and inspecting the installation so that it meets your vision. You should also call the plumbing and electrical professionals to reconnect such fixtures. If everything is done correctly, the contractor will quality check your new installation and complete the final touches. They’ll also provide specific instructions regarding caring for your new countertop. You can start using your countertop 24 hours after installation.
Post-Installation Cleanup
Once the new countertop is set in place and all fixtures are connected, the contractor will complete the post-installation cleanup. Installing a countertop may make the job site dirty and messy, especially if the project involves onsite cutting. Most countertops arrive with a conventional sealer, but the contractor may apply a unique sealer after installation. You must wait 24 hours for the sealer to dry, after which you can enjoy your new countertop.
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Key Countertop Installation Takeaways
Installing a new countertop comes with noise, dust, and interruptions, so treat it like any other construction process. Most installations will take several hours to complete and even longer if the backsplash is involved. If you plan to be home during the installation, plan accordingly to minimize interruption. Make sure everyone is safe by clearing the job site and removing obstructions from the pathway of the installers.
You can cover vents and doorways using plastic sheeting or request your contractor to do it to minimize dust. Do the same for furniture, carpets, and other fixtures if the countertops are being cut on site. Remove fragile items like antiques, artwork, mirrors, and other valuables above or below the cabinets before installation. Countertops are installed last, after flooring and cabinets, so you should schedule floor work first.
You should ask the contractor if they’ll handle the backsplash or if you need to hire another professional. The final wall preparation, including painting, tiling, and adding wallpapers above the countertop, is done after installation. Make sure you have your appliances (refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers) in place before installation begins. More importantly, work with a trustworthy countertop installation company with a clean record and decades of experience.
