As per the Ceramic Tile and Stone Consultants (CTaSC), 80% of cracked granite countertops are due to improper installation, such as inadequate support or poor seam placement.
Well, that’s true, as installing granite worktops isn’t just about picking a beautiful slab and placing it in your kitchen—it’s a process that requires careful planning, precise measurements, and the right techniques. After all, a poor installation can lead to serious problems like cracks, uneven surfaces, or even a porous finish that stains easily. And let’s be honest, no one wants to deal with costly repairs later on!
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common mistakes people make when installing granite countertops and, more importantly, how to avoid them. Plus, we’ll share some expert tips to make sure your installation is flawless and lasts for years to come. So let’s get started.
Common Granite Countertop Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Inaccurate Measurements
When you fail to get precise measurements of your slab, especially when you want to install a sink in it as well, your countertops will either not be too big, and you will have to cut it again or too short to fit. You will have to make adjustments, which increases the chances of moisture being trapped in them and invites your not-so-friendly guests, mould & mildew. To prevent all these things it is necessary to take the measurements very carefully before you cut the slab.
Ignoring Cabinet Support
Granite kitchen worktops are extremely heavy, and if the base of it isn’t steady enough, it won’t be able to support it. When you ignore to look into the weight the cabinets underneath the slab can bear, it may sag and crack over time or even collapse.
Using Mismatched Slabs During Installation
Choosing the right colour isn’t just about the overall look of your kitchen but different colours of granite have different features since it is 100% natural stone. Some are more porous and fragile, they tend to stain and chip more easily, hence require frequent sealing and maintenance. Here are the most common stones that are used to avoid this kind of issue:
- Black Granite: it’s highly dense, stain-resistant, and requires minimal maintenance.
- White Granite: Brightens spaces with its clean look but is more porous, needing regular sealing.
- Gray Granite: offers a subtle hint of elegance with lower maintenance than white but more variation than black.
Improper Sink Installation
While cutting the sinkhole, as we talked about earlier, we need to precisely measure. If the cut is too small, the sink won’t fit; if it’s too large, it may leave gaps that require constant resealing. it can also cause water infiltration and damage your countertop and surrounding areas over time, and to save yourself from this; you will have to seal very frequently.
Neglecting Edge Profiles
You cannot ignore the safety measures while choosing the edge profile of your granite countertop, as sharp and pointy edges are more likely that the countertop will get chipped because impacts from dropping a heavy object or bumping into the counter are directly on a thin, fragile point. It can also be a hazard, especially when you have kids in your house. Round edges, or we can call them bullnose or bevelled, are way safer than any other edge shape.
Skipping Sealant Application
Another mistake that usually happens is you skip or forget to seal the granite properly with a sealant. We all know that granite is a stone and, hence, has pores in it that absorb liquids and lead to stains that are very tough to remove or become home to bacteria and all types of weird odours. That is why it is very important to seal it properly right after the installation and then make it a habit to reseal it every 6–12 months or more frequently, depending on the use.
DIY Installation Without Experience
If you are going to do the installation yourself, know that it requires professional tools and expert techniques to install kitchen countertops properly. If you are unable to do so properly, it will lead to damage and, in some unfortunate events, injuries. That is why it is suggested that if you aren’t professionally skilled, do not take up granite installation on yourself and hire a professional.
Tips for a Successful Countertop Installation
Here are some of the tips that can help you with a successful installation of your granite worktop:
- Inspect the slab for colour consistency and imperfections:
Carefully look at the granite slab under good light if the colours are uniform. Look for cracks, fissures, or irregularities that could weaken the stone over time.
- Perform a dry fit before applying adhesive:
To make sure that the countertop fits perfectly, place the countertop in position without adhesive. This will allow you to check for size mismatches, misalignments, or uneven edges and if there are any imperfections, you can adjust them.
- Ensure cabinets are level and sturdy:
Make sure your cabinets are level and sturdy because if they are uneven, the granite could end up with pressure points that might crack over time. Use a levelling tool to check, and if needed, add shims to fix any uneven spots.
- Plan seam placement strategically:
If you are joining multiple slabs together, make sure to check the pattern of the veins and colours that go seamlessly to blend together.
- Use high-quality adhesives and sealants:
Use a high-quality adhesive and sealant to join the countertop so that your slab is secure and there is protection against stains and moisture.
- Inspect the final installation for alignment and touch-ups:
After you have secured the countertop, look for any gaps or rough edges and apply touch-ups as needed. Polishing the surface and edges will give a finished look.
- Considering Maintenance Requirements
When you use harsh chemicals and tough brushes, it can get damaged and become porous, trapping moisture and even food underneath it. This leads to a bad smell and a pungent smell of bacteria and infections. That’s why it is necessary to follow the maintenance steps properly mentioned in the Granite Maintenance & Care Guide.
So, there you have it! Installing granite countertops isn’t just about picking a pretty slab. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration. Now, the next step for you would be to look for a quality granite worktop company that offers a great installation experience. Granite Supply has got you covered! With a wide selection of premium stone and a team of experienced professionals, we’ll make sure that you have a kitchen that looks amazing and stays amazing for years to come.
