Cutting and installing your own countertops can appear as a daunting task that is hard to accomplish. However, with the right tools and instructions, it is a project you can manage and complete by yourself. Whether you are interested in new kitchen or bathroom countertops, cutting and installing the countertops yourself can save you a lot of money. Keep reading to find out about the necessary tools and the steps you need to take for this project.
Understanding Granite
Granite is known for its durability and longevity. It is one of the hardest stones used in home improvements and it can serve as a reliable workspace for years to come. On the other hand, its hardness makes it more difficult to cut and shape to fit into the desired space. Understanding its structure and how to work with it is the first step toward a successful installation.
Required Tools
The right tools will make the process much smoother and leave less room for mistakes. The first thing you will need is the right equipment for cutting the stone. The most important thing to have is a diamond blade saw. A diamond blade is strong enough to cut through the granite. A wet saw will help lessen the dust that will come up as you cut the granite.
You should also get the necessary safety gear. These are essential tools that you should not ignore. Safely gloves, goggles, and masks will guarantee that the granite dust won’t get into your mouth nose, or eyes.
Granite is a very heavy stone. Therefore, you should have a worktop that is durable enough to carry it. Don’t work on a table that wobbles or isn’t secure. Similarly, to hold the granite in place securely, you should use strong clamps.
To measure the granite accurately, you should get a measuring tape, pen, ruler, and masking tape. After measuring, you can tape the cutting line with the masking tape and use the pen and the ruler to draw the cutting line.
Safety Precautions
The diamond saw is a tool you should be careful with. Moreover, the granite slabs are weighty and need proper handling. These are a few safety precautions you should practice during the project:
- Wear the protective gear from the start to the finish of the cutting process. The goggles, gloves, and mask will protect you from the dust and debris that will fly everywhere. Moreover, before sanding the edges of the stone, they will be sharp and the gloves will prevent possible cuts.
- Work in a safe and well-ventilated area. Remove unnecessary items that might cause accidents. Ensure that children or pets cannot reach your workspace during the cutting process.
- Wear comfortable clothing that can’t be caught on something. Pick items that cover your body such as long sleeve t-shirts and long pants. You should have a full range of motions and should be comfortable working in them.
Prepare the Workspace
Correct preparation is a pivotal part of cutting granite countertops. A well-prepared workspace is the best preventative measure for any possible mistakes.
Choosing a sturdy and flat surface is an important step. Gather your tools such as the clamps and place them near your working space so that you won’t have to look for them during the cutting step. Avoiding interruptions will help with ensuring a smooth process. Set up your saw on the surface, plug it in, and make sure it is ready to use.
Set Up the Saw
Before cutting the granite, check if the blade is correctly installed on the saw. The blade should be tight and firm, it shouldn’t be moving side to side. If the blade is securely installed, you can adapt the depth of the saw to the correct cutting depth.
After these steps, you should connect the saw to a water source. The water will keep the blade cool. This will prevent the saw from heating up. Moreover, wet cutting will keep dirt and dust flying everywhere to a minimum.
Measure the Granite
Measure the space that the countertops are going to be installed on, then measure a second time to check. You can cut a piece of cardboard to the measurements you’ve taken and see if the cardboard fits correctly to the space. This will ensure that you aren’t making the countertops too small. Avoid cutting the granite too small because if it turns out too big, you can cut the access, however, if it is too small, there is nothing else you can do.
Apply the masking tape on the cutting line, this will make the markings easier to see and the granite will be less likely to chip. Use a ruler to draw straight lines on the tape before cutting.
Cutting Granite Countertops
Now that all of the necessary preparation is made and all the safety precautions are taken, it is time to cut the countertops. Place the granite slab on the work table, and make sure to align the cut line with the saw. Using the clamps, secure the slab on the table.
Turn on the saw and gently cut along the line you have previously made. Don’t put too much pressure on the saw, the diamond blade will successfully cut through granite without you having to apply force. Let the saw do the work while you focus on guiding it through the cut line. Granite is incredibly hard and dense, cutting through it takes a bit of patience. Take your time so the cut is as clean and straight as possible.
Finishing the Edges of the Countertops
The cut is done, leaving you with edges that need smoothing and polishing. These steps will give the countertops a finished appearance and make them nicer to the touch.
To smooth the edges of the cut line you can use a diamond polishing pad. Gently buff the edges with the pad without applying too much pressure. Then, you can buff a polishing compound on the edges which will give the slab a glossy high-shine finish. These steps will achieve a professional appearance.
Installing the Countertops
The granite slab is cut and polished, it is time to install it. Before the installation, ensure that the cabinets that will carry the countertops are safe and secure. They need to be able to hold the weight of the countertops and be level to confirm the countertops can lay flat.
Use a high-quality adhesive to stick the granite to the cabinets. Apply following the instructions on the adhesive advice. Carefully, place the countertops on the cabinets and align them properly. Clamp down the granite to hold it in place while the adhesive dries and sets.
Cutting granite countertops yourself isn’t a hard process, however, it does require a lot of careful planning and measuring. With this guide, you will be able to cut and install your countertops with confidence, giving your home a stunning renovation.