How are Granite Countertops Attached | 9 Simple Steps to Follow

You can install Granite countertops in many different ways depending on your needs. If you have a small space and want to save money by not removing your old counters, you can use an adhesive called epoxy that will attach your new granite to the existing surface without damaging it. Let’s learn how are granite countertops attached.

Granite countertops are one of the most popular natural stones because they are durable and easy to clean.

Granite is a rugged rock, which makes it an excellent material for countertops. It is also durable and can withstand heavy use without chipping or cracking. Granite is also the perfect material for people with allergies because it contains no allergens like mold, mildew, or dust mites.

You can attach granite countertops to the surface with adhesive, epoxy, or silicone. The installation process varies depending on the type of granite. So, let’s check what the Home Affluence team brings for this article:

How are Granite Countertops Attached

Step 1: Surface preparation

The first step in installing granite countertops is preparing the surface. This involves removing any old tile, laminate, or other material that is on top of it.

The surface preparation process is crucial to ensure the granite installation goes smoothly. If you install granite on a wood surface, you will need to remove the old layer of varnish or paint first. If you are installing granite over existing stone, you will need to ensure that the stone is structurally sound and dry before proceeding with the installation.

Step 2: Installation of the solid surface

A solid surface is a material that you can use to attach granite countertops. It is a solid and durable material that you can use for backsplashes too.

• First, you need to clean the surface of the area where you want to install the solid surface.
• Then, you need to measure the area, cut it accordingly with a saw, and use your Safety goggles.
• Next, apply silicone glue on one side of the solid surface and attach it to one side of your kitchen wall using screws or nails.
• Finally, apply adhesive on another side of the solid surface and attach it to another side of your kitchen wall using screws or nails.

Step 3: Trim stone edges

It would help if you trimmed the edges of the stone countertops to fit, then attach them to the granite with a silicone sealant.

When you install granite countertops, you need to consider the height of your walls so that the edges of the stone do not protrude beyond them. You also need to measure carefully before cutting your stone so that it fits snugly against all four corners of your walls.

Step 4: Countersink screw holes

Use countersink screws to attach the granite countertop to the sinkhole. This is a process that requires some skill and patience. Countersinking is an easy way of attaching the granite countertop to the sinkhole.

Drill the countersunk screw into the laminate material, giving you a flat surface to attach your granite countertop.

Step 5: Attachment of faucet and drain

It is essential to ensure that the faucet and the drain are attached to the countertop before it is installed. Sometimes people avoid this step, but it can lead to problems.

The thickness of laminate countertops can vary, depending on what company you get it from. The lower-quality ones are usually thinner than higher-quality ones, so check before you buy. Check out the references for more info.

Step 6: Countersinking holes for screws

Countersinking holes for screws to attach granite countertops is a process that requires precision and care.

The countersunk hole is the hole in the countertop where the screw will go through to attach it to the sub-surface. You can countersink with a drill press, a hand drill, or an end mill. You need to drill the countersunk hole at least 1/4 inch deep and about 1/4 inch larger than the diameter of the screw you’re using.

Solid surface: Solid surface materials are made of polyester and polyurethane resins. People use these materials for countertops because they are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains.

Sinkhole: You can use sinkholes in kitchens as a place for sinks or dishwashers. The sinkhole must be at least 2 inches deep but not more than 4 inches from the top of cabinet flooring or countertop material.

Step 7: Final caulking and sealing of seams

Caulking and sealing are crucial as part of the installation process. Sealing the seams between the countertop and the wall or backsplash is essential. In addition, remember to fill any gaps between the countertop and cabinets.

You should apply the bead of the caulk so that it is not visible from any angle. If it is, you will need to do some touch-ups before sealing it with an epoxy mixture or clear silicone caulking.

Proper care: It’s essential to clean your counters regularly (at least once per week) with a non-abrasive cleaner and dry them off immediately after use.

Step 8: Countersinking for final installation screws

Countersinking is the process of drilling a hole in the material to be attached and then driving a screw into it, allowing the screw to sit flush with the surface. 

A countersink is a drill bit with a cone-shaped point on one end and is used to create holes in wood, metal, or other materials. The cone shape makes it easier to drive screws into these materials without them protruding from the surface. A countersink is of steel or tungsten carbide and ranges in diameter from 1/4 inch to 3 inches. Countersinks perform specifically for wood screws, sheet metal screws, and machine screws.

Step 9: Final granite slab installation

The final granite slab installation is the connection of the countertop to the wall. You can do this with steel braces that connect to the wall and bolt to the countertop.

You can drill the steel braces into the wall studs and then bolted to the floor, providing a stable base for the granite slabs.

After you install the slab, it is necessary to attach the granite countertop slabs. You can achieve this with steel braces that are screwed into the wall studs and then attached to the slab.

Steel braces are commonly used in this process because they are inexpensive and easy to install.

Expert Opinion

Granite countertops are helpful for any kitchen. They add beauty, durability, and style. However, before installing your granite countertop, you need to work the surface clean and free of debris-free step is to get your base cabinet out of the way. 

You will want to remove anything from inside so you can easily access the kitchen countertop’s surface. Then use a utility knife to cut pieces of granite into manageable sizes for installation. You will also want a granite adhesive used in conjunction with the details of granite glued together with silicone or epoxy resin adhesive.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what kind of kitchen countertop best suits your needs. You may want a granite countertop because of its durability and beauty, but you might need more money. You may have a different preference in material or color that is better suited for your kitchen. There are many kinds of granite countertops, so take your time and research before making any decisions.

References

• Editors Team. (2022, January 26). How Are Granite Countertops Attached? | Mr. Kitchen Faucets. Retrieved November 22, 2022
• Smith. (2021, January 31). How Are Countertops Attached to Cabinets (Right Way) – Countertop Advisor. Retrieved November 22, 2022, from https://countertopadvisor.com/how-countertops-attached-to-cabinets/ 
• Batashev. (2022, November 10). How Are Granite Countertops Installed? | Granite Selection. Retrieved November 22, 2022, from https://graniteselection.com/blog/how-are-granite-countertops-installed/ 
• Editors Team. (2017, December 27). What to Expect If You Have Stone Countertops Installed. Retrieved November 22, 2022, from https://granitegold.com/blogs/blog/stone-countertops-installation 
• Carlton. (2021, February 25). How Are Granite Countertops Attached? Retrieved November 22, 2022.