Granite Installation DIY

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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 cutout is always done prior to the installation of the slab. Mark the granite surface using the manufacturer’s template and leave sufficient margin from the front / rear edge.Set the granite slab on a work bench and cut the slab along the mark. You have to cut the slab outside to avoid excess dust. Polish the inside edge of the slab and the sink top will be ready for installation.

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. First cut the 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 need 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. The slab can be secured to the frame by using steel brackets from underneath. Continue the installation of the other slab by selecting the best piece from the kit for the 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. You have to properly align the surface and the edge of the two sections. You need to use araldite for the seam joint and tightly butt the slabs. You have to use mineral spirit to clean the surface at the joint. 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 15 minutes to absorb it. Clean the excess sealer with a cloth.Allow the adhesives to dry for a minimum of 48 hours. Apply a second coat to protect the granite surface against bacteria and mildew. Sealer for granite kitchen countertops should be applied every 1-2 years depending on usage and wear. The appearance of your granite top will not change if you use water-based sealer, which will aid in resisting acidic stains.  This will help to simplify maintenance.