Once granite countertops are installed, they are nearly indestructible, but in transit, granite is quite fragile. Most granite shops provide installation services that include transportation. Handy homeowners can save money by installing the counters themselves. With the right equipment and preparation transporting granite can be effortless.
Granite is a rigid, natural stone. When properly supported, it is sturdy and resists cracking. Cabinets provide equal support under the counter, evenly spreading the weight. Without this support, granite is susceptible to cracks. Like glass, granite is transported vertically on its edge. If granite is laid flat, it will likely crack over bumps in the road.
To support the stone, professional installers use A-frames, wooden structures in the shape of the letter ?A.? Leaning the granite against the slope of the ?A? gives it even support. A-frames are built with 2'x4?s at a 10 degree angle. Horizontal and vertical supports connect the two A-frames and provide a surface for the clamps and straps that hold the granite in place. Placed in the bed of a pickup truck, an A-frame can support enough granite for a large kitchen. However, smaller A-frames can be built to fit in a van, SUV, or trailer. Many granite shops have A-frames and clamps available for a returnable deposit.
Most granite counters have a cutout for the sink. Under-mount sinks, which are the most common, require a polished cutout that is safe for transport. However, other cutouts are vulnerable to cracking. Cook tops, drop-in sinks, and faucet holes may crack on the road. For this reason, your granite shop may advise you to cut these holes at the installation site.
For small bathroom vanity tops, it may be possible to transport granite without an A-frame. The same principles apply: the granite must be vertical on the unpolished edge and must be secured to keep it in place. Rest the bottom edge on a flat, even surface. If possible, put down the back seats. In minivans and SUVs, one of rear seat may be put down while the remaining seats are used for a support surface.
Due to liability concerns, granite shops are often unable to load the granite into your vehicle. Two people can carry most counters, so you should bring a friend to help with loading. Like in the car, the granite should be carried vertically. Lift both ends at the same time to ensure even support. Inspect the granite carefully before loading it into your vehicle. Once the counters leave the shop, they become the liability of the homeowner.
Home installation is a great way for do-it-yourselfers to save money on granite counters. With an A-frame, clamps, and the proper vehicle, homeowners can transport their granite without hassle.
How To Install Granite Countertops
Every homeowner wants to increase the esthetic appeal of the house. The appeal of the house makes the house look attractive and increases its demand. If you are a homeowner then you too might have opted for several ways to increase brand value of the house. To increase the esthetic value of the house, decorate each part of the home with appropriate material.
Take care of the kitchen decoration. Many people do not take much care to purchase and install kitchen decoration items. This reduces the beauty of the house. If you want to remodel your kitchen then opt for the granite countertops. Granite is expensive but it is also extremely durable. In fact it is the hardest material which is aptly suited for the kitchen. By investing once on the granite countertops, you can avoid the expenses to change countertops after some years. The esthetic appeal of granite cannot be found in any other home decor material. So, if you can use granite in your kitchen then you can surely create a prizewinning d'cor for your kitchen. However keep in mind the following few points that will allow you to install the perfect granite.
Tip 1: If someone wants to install granite countertops in his house then the first thing that he should do is hire a professional. You should not try to install granite countertops on your own as it might damage the surface. Always contact a person who has expertize in this job and knows the skills to install granite. Professionals have proper equipments to install the granite items.
Tip 2: Ask the professionals to create the templates properly before they install the countertops. While making the templates they should also inform about the seams. They should inform the number of seams and place where the seams would be located. Always try to have fewer seams if you want to make your kitchen look beautiful.
Tip 3: Plywood and metal rods would be added on the top portion of cabinetry before installation. It will increase the strength and level the surface. Sink and range will also get extra support for this. This step is quite critical and should be performed carefully. If this step is not performed carefully then the granite slab might break during everyday use. Proper leveling of the slab can be done only by a professional and so one should always hire an expert for this job.
Tip 4: Granite slabs can be of varied width and weight. The slabs should be handled with care else it can get damaged. Cabinetry of the slab should be strong enough to bear the weight of the slab. These slabs should be laid carefully on the cabinetry to prevent formation of crack.
Tip 5: Always note the positions of sinks, faucets and electrical outlets from the installers. Positions can change depending on the thickness of the slab. Ask the installer to seal the seams on the slabs. They apply penetrating sealer on the slab polish the surface to make it smooth and shining. If kitchen countertops are installed in a proper manner then it can change the look of the kitchen.
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