How to Install Granite Countertops: DIY Edition

So, you’re considering new granite countertops as part of a home renovation. Whether the renovation is for a client or for your own home, it’s a big decision and one that comes with a good amount of work and expenses. But, as an experienced builder or contractor, you can take the crazy expenses right out of the equation and complete the installation yourself! Let’s take a look at the general steps to follow when you complete a DIY granite countertop installation project:

Preparation: Do You Have the Qualifications to Install Granite Countertops?

Before we begin, we want to stress the importance that you are experienced in DIY projects and building. Accidents can happen to even the most seasoned professionals, and we want you to be sure of the process you’re taking on. Granite countertop installation is a complicated process that should only be completed by experienced professionals, which is why DIY countertop installation is only advisable for those who are in the construction, remodeling, and residential contracting industries. 

Selection of Granite

Your first step to a new countertop is the selection of a granite vendor and a granite pattern. It’s imperative that you choose the best vendor possible, to make the entire process worth it. We’d hate to see your project fail because of the quality of your granite. Once you’ve chosen the best vendor, visit their showroom to see their available patterns, making sure it’s the style that best fits your home. 

Make sure you have a comprehensive template of the dimensions of your countertop when you go to your vendor so they’re able to cut the slab to your exact specifications.

DIY Granite Countertop Installation: Gather Your Tools

For your DIY countertop installation to go as smoothly as possible, there are a few tools that are absolutely necessary. These tools include:

• Circular saw
• Jigsaw
• Tape measure
• Level
• Caulking gun
• Putty knife

These tools ensure your installation will have the best possible outcome.

How to Install Granite Countertops DIY-Style

Once you have your slab picked out and ready, it’s time to prepare your space for the new countertop. 

#1. Clear the Area and Prep Your Space

This process involves the removal of your old plumbing, your backsplash, and of course, your old countertop. Make sure to switch off all of the electrical circuits in your kitchen as well, and move all appliances that may obstruct the new countertop.

#2. Bring in Your Granite Countertop

Once your kitchen is clear and uncluttered, and the space for the new countertop is open, it’s time to install! Your granite vendor will have affixed holes in the slab for you. Clean the edges of each slab and join the seams carefully together, adding claps and epoxy to the attachment region.

#3. Secure, Cure, and Seal Your Countertop

Use the caulk gun to waterproof the edges between the sink and countertop, and make sure you lower the countertop gently onto your cabinets. Once attached, use a kitchen cleaner to clean the surface of your new countertop and let sit for 24 hours. After the day is up, you may apply your sealer.

Now admire your work proudly and enjoy that new countertop for years to come!

Ready to DIY Your Granite Countertop Installation?

At Kowalski Granite & Quartz, we offer an exclusive DIY Program to experienced builders and contractors. Measure, template, and install countertops in homes, without the need for our installation team. This program provides significant time and money savings, so we want our professional customers to know it’s available. However, if this is something you’d prefer to have another team install, Kowalski always offers our expert installation services. Give us a call or contact us online to learn more about how we can help with your project.