Granite and quartz countertops are the epitome of luxury and durability in modern kitchens and bathrooms. Their natural beauty, unique patterns, and resilience make them a popular choice for homeowners looking to enhance the value and functionality of their spaces.
Understanding the journey of these natural stone materials from the quarry to your kitchen is essential in appreciating their value and ensuring a seamless installation process. This guide will walk you through each step involved in the fabrication and installation of granite and quartz countertops, addressing common questions and preparing you for what to expect.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Material Selection
Granite
Granite is quarried directly from the earth as a single, large block. These blocks are then sliced into slabs using high-precision cutting tools. The unique veining and coloring of granite come from the natural formation process, making each slab one-of-a-kind.
At All American Granite, we work with 10 Twin Cities area slab selection centers to provide you with an unmatched selection of premium granite.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are engineered from natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. This manufacturing process allows for a wider range of colors and patterns, often mimicking the look of natural stone with added durability. All American Granite offers a premium selection of popular quartz slabs from the world’s top quartz manufacturers.
2. Design and Template Creation
Once you have selected your granite or quartz slab, the next step is creating a precise template of your countertop layout. This template accounts for the dimensions, cutouts for sinks, faucets, and any other customizations. Accuracy at this stage is crucial for ensuring a perfect fit during installation. Precision laser measuring equipment is employed to capture the installation space with your existing countertops in place.
3. Fabrication
With the template as a guide, skilled craftsmen cut the granite or quartz slab to the exact specifications using specialized saws and CNC machinery. Edges are shaped, and surfaces are polished to the desired finish, highlighting the beauty of the stone. This step requires meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship.
All American Granite uses a state-of-the-art SABERjet™ XP saw. It combines a powerful saw blade with a 5-axis waterjet. The combination is optimized to cut any material including, granite, quartz, marble, soapstone, porcelain and quartzite. The precision of the SABERjet™ XP enables an precise fit with tight seams, along with faster turn-around times and less waste.
4. Sealing (Granite Only)
Granite is a porous material and requires sealing to prevent staining and bacterial growth. A high-quality sealant is applied to the surface, which needs to be re-applied periodically to maintain its protective properties. Quartz, on the other hand, is non-porous and does not require sealing.
5. Installation Preparation
Before the installation, installers will check to ensure your cabinets are level and sturdy enough to support the weight of the stone. They will remove any existing countertops and make sure the area is clear for the installers to work. It’s a good idea to discuss any concerns or special considerations with your installation team ahead of time.
- Clear the workspace to ensure the installation area is free from obstacles and debris
- Disconnect any plumbing or appliances that may interfere with the installation process
- Provide clear access for the installation team to bring in the materials and tools
6. Installation
Professional installers will carefully transport and place the fabricated countertops onto your cabinetry. This process requires precision and skill to align the seams (if any) and secure the countertop in place. Silicone adhesive is typically used to affix the countertop to the cabinets, and any seams are filled and sealed.
7. Final Touches
After installation, the installers will apply a final sealant layer (for granite) and clean up the workspace, leaving you with a stunning new countertop ready for use!
Common Questions
How long does the installation process take?
The installation typically takes one day, but it may vary depending on the complexity and size of the project.
How do I maintain my granite or quartz countertop?
Granite countertops should be cleaned with mild soap and water and resealed periodically. Quartz countertops can also be cleaned with mild soap and water, but they do not require sealing.
Can I place hot pots directly on the surface?
It’s recommended to use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from extreme heat, especially for quartz countertops, which can be damaged by high temperatures.
Choosing granite or quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom is an investment in beauty and durability. By following the proper preparation and maintenance guidelines, your granite or quartz countertops will provide years of stunning aesthetics and functionality.
