DIY Network

Blog Cabin, Webisode 7: Countertop Installation Step-by-step instructions for installing countertops, as seen in DIY's Blog Cabin.

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Blog Cabin: Granite Countertops Installation

Tools:

measuring tape

Materials:

countertop material
countertop adhesive
color matching silicone

Steps:

1. Choose the countertop material you want to install.

• Note: Some countertop materials may require expert help. Keep this in mind if you want to install and cut your own countertops.

2. First, measure the cabinet layout and make a template based on your measurements (figures A, B and C).

• Note: Get hard measurements on things that are square and plumb, and get soft measurements for areas that may need adjusting, such as the sink.

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	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G
	Figure H

3. Allow an inch to an inch-and-a-half for the overhang of the countertop (figure D) on islands and exposed edges of cabinets.

• Note: For countertops that will edge against large appliances, subtract 1/16th of an inch to allow for easy install and removal.

• Note: Remove cabinet drawers for a faster install process.

4. Carefully bring countertop material in and place onto the designated cabinet or island top.

• Note: This serves as a dry fit to make sure all pieces fir together before adhering anything into place.

5. Check the countertop for level (figure E) and shim up any necessary areas (figure F).

6. Attach the countertop with the manufacturer’s preferred adhesive (figure G) and check for level.

• Note: For granite to wood, use silicone as the adhesive material. This provides proper cushioning and provides enough strength to keep the granite in place.

• Note: If one side of countertop is higher, hit it into place while protecting the countertop material.

7. Continue adhering countertops to cabinets and island.

8. Next adhere seams between countertop pieces with color matching silicone (figure H). Remove any excess silicone with solvent and cut away any excess that isn’t easily removable.

RESOURCES :

Stonecraft
www.stonecraftusa.com