If you're new to home renovations or have never had a countertop professionally installed, this article will guide you through some of the things you can expect. Your granite professional will no doubt give you specifics as you make final decisions and go through each step. But here we'll give you an overview so you're somewhat prepared beforehand. It may help take some of the stress off while you're remodeling and make the process go a little smoother.

3 Things You Can Expect

1. Measuring and detail deciding. This is the first major step of your granite installation. Your granite professional will come to your home to take measurements of your current counters or new cabinets. (If the remodel includes new cabinets, those must already be installed before this step.) You'll want to make sure the countertop surfaces are clear on that day. If your kitchen remodel will include any changes or additions to the amount of countertop space or shape of the counter, you'll need to discuss those details.

Other details surrounding the sink (including faucet holes), stove, and backsplash will be discussed. You may make the final decision on the color of granite as well. If you're renovating more than the countertop, a granite installation is close to the final step in the process.

2. Template making. Your granite professional will make a template based on either your existing countertops or new cabinets. This step ensures accuracy in the measurements. Again, new cabinets must already be installed before you can take this step. Make sure to have the make and model numbers of your stove, sink, and faucet on hand. If you're going with an undermount sink, they will actually need to have that during the countertop fabricating process. So having it in hand by this point will move things along quicker.

3. Granite countertop installation day. Home renovations can be long and taxing so you'll no doubt be relieved when the day for your countertop to be installed comes. This can be quite the event, taking hours to complete. So you'll want to schedule time off for it. You'll need your sink and all other major appliances before this step. You'll want to remove pretty much everything from your kitchen. Art, rugs, pet bowls, and anything else that could be in the way or be destroyed. Clear out the cabinets below the sink and cooktop. Air conditioning, gas, plumbing, and the cooktop must be disconnected before installation. If possible, close off your kitchen to other rooms. The installation will create some dust so be prepared to do some cleaning afterward.

A granite countertop installation takes time but the results will be worth it. Following the specific instructions given by your granite professional will go a long way to ensure a smooth measuring, template making, and installing process. You may never have to go through this type of installation again. So endure through the time and anxiety for a little while and enjoy the benefits of a luxury granite countertop for decades.