The Installation Process, What to Expect
November 19, 2008
Overview
If you are considering installing new countertops or are just interested in the process, the following summary of the installation process will help you understand what to expect. This particular example is about the installation process of kitchen countertops, however it will also be helpful to you if you are considering other installations including bathrooms, outdoor kitchen, etc.
The basic steps are templating, fabrication, tear out, and finally installation.
Template:
Before templating can begin, it is helpful to clear the countertop area completely of any objects, which will help us do our job more efficiently. Additionally, your items will be protected from any dust or damage that could take place if the objects were on or near the countertops during the templating process. During the templating process, an outline of your cabinet pattern is made to accurately install your new countertops. Some of the steps during the templating phase include:
- Seam placement
- All sinks, cooktops, faucets, etc are checked for fit (which means you should have them available).
- Cabinets are checked for fit.
- Support and any personal preferences in regards to the countertops are normally discussed at this time along with any refinements for cabinetry, etc so that this is discussed with you prior to installation of your countertops.
Project Information:
In order to efficiently follow through with the production process, this is a list of information we will need during the templating process.
- Decision on the edge of the countertop
- Faucet brand, model, and location decision
- Sinks
- Range/Other kitchen appliance brand and model and location decision
Sink:
If you choose an undermount sink, this will take place during installation. Therefore, it is recommended to not use any plumbing in the area for at least 12 hours. Any kitchen appliances, such as the cooktop and faucet, will be set to accurately determine fit.
Fabrication:
Before the fabrication step, you will approve your slabs for your countertops so that you can review them and give final approval.
Tear Out:
If necessary for your project, normally the tear out of exisiting countertops will take place during the installation process. All plumbing is also disconnected during this process and (And it’s not a good idea to use your dishwasher until your plumbing is reconnected).
Installation:
On the day of installation, it is important to clear a path to the area where you countertops are going to be, so that the stone can be easily carried through your home. Normally the installation process takes a few hours and last minute adjustments to the stone may be made in your home. You should probably expect leftover dust from the installation and you probably want to keep your cabinets empty so that the objects stay clean. Any drawers should be removed as well to allow the us access in order to efficiently install your countertops.
Final Job Approval
At the completion of your countertops, we recommend that you are available to approve the project. It is important that the installer goes over the installation with you so that you can have any questions you may have answered. Normally at this stage we will ask for the final balance due for the project. We will also might ask permission to take a few photos for our Orlando Countertop Photo Gallery
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