DIY Network

Marble Countertop Installation From "Kitchen Renovations" episode DKTN-408

In this second segment of the third "Rustic Contemporary" episode of four, Darcy (homeowner) and the granite expert discuss how to determine the seam location. Professionals install the marble countertops. They give tips on mixing epoxy to make the seams disappear.

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	It's hard to believe that this small, dated kitchen...
	is renovated into this spacious,...
	new cabinets, sparkling appliances and unique hardwood flooring!

Materials and Tools for Building a Frame Support for Sink --

Fabricated Sink
Silicone
2 x 4 lumber
4 x 4 lumber
Power drill
Tape measure
Speed square
Pencil
Hammer
Angle brackets
Screws

Materials and Tools for Countertop Installation --

Countertops
Tape
Putty knife
Glue
Suction cups
Silicone
Coloring pigment
Epoxy
Hardener
Caulk gun
Ruler
Pencil
Shim

Materials and Tools for Glass Tile Backsplash --

Glass tiles
Work gloves
Safety glasses
Adhesive
Wet saw with diamond blade
Dry cloth
Margin trowel
Spacers
Rubbing stone
3/16th" square notched trowel
Thinset

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Marble Countertop Installation

Note: It's best to leave the installation of heavy stone countertops to experienced professionals.

1. Tape off the cabinets to protect them.

2. When setting in multiple slabs, put the two end pieces of countertops into place and then slide the middle section between them.

3. Shim the edges of the slabs (figure A) to ensure they are flush and level.

4. Before sealing the seams, apply strips of tape along the seams (figure B). This will keep excess epoxy from getting on the marble.

5. Mix coloring pigment into the epoxy. Work the colors into the epoxy until the mix matches the tone of the marble. When the color is right, add hardener to the epoxy.

6. Press the epoxy color mix into the seams with a putty knife.

7. While the epoxy is drying, caulk the edges along the bottom of the countertop.

8. When the epoxy is dry, remove the tape and scrape away any excess glue.

9. Use suction cups (figure C) to support the marble while you finish cutting any holes such as those for the cook top. Suction cups are the best way to lift out the scrap pieces.

10. For the sink countertop, first dry fit it. Leave a 1/4" reveal (figure D) of the sink on all four sides. Once it is positioned, lift the countertop, apply a bead of silicone and put the counter into place.

11. Apply an enhancer sealer to the countertop. The enhancer brings out the color and the sealer protects the stone. You will need to apply the sealer every one to three years (once you notice the spills aren't wiping up as easily).

In the next segment, the trough sink is put in place, and they share how crushed recycled bottles are turned into glass tiles.

RESOURCES :

Countertop and Sink Fabrication and Installation
Credit River Granite
Website: www.creditrivergranite.com

Marble Slab
Brand name: New Verde "G"
Color: Guatemalan Green
Midwest Tile, Marble and Granite
Website: www.midwesttile.com

Glass Tile for Backsplash
Product: Casa California 4 x 4 Field Tile
Color: Cane Irid. #006

Product: Haiku 2.5 x 5 Field Tile
Color: Equator Non-Irid. #137

Product: Terrain Canyon Liner
Color: Equator Non-Irid. #137
Oceanside Glasstile
Website: www.glasstile.com

GUESTS :

Steve Eckelman
President
Credit River Granite
Website: www.creditrivergranite.com

Paul McCabe
Vice President
Midwest Tile, Marble and Granite
Website: www.midwesttile.com