Stone attributes and installation issues
Stone attributes. Slab thickness, clarity, inclusions, and consistency of color and pattern are a few attributes that drive the cost of stone. If you are comparing multiple quotes, make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
Direction. While granite is often nondirectional, many stone types have a visible direction that should remain the same throughout the entire kitchen or bathroom.
Patterns. Inclusions in stone sometimes create patterns, referred to as movement, and should flow consistently from one piece to another. For example, patterns in the stone are typically run up the backsplash as well.
Seams. Some companies piece together scraps of leftover stone and create more seams than necessary to minimize the amount of material used in fabrication. Though this decreases cost, it is considered poor workmanship. You should not have multiple seams in a short run, which is a run shorter than approximately 100 inches, unless the installer is working to keep the direction consistent. If your stone does not have a direction, you should not have multiple seams in a short run.
As part of the installation process, quality stone countertop installers will seal seams with polyester resin, which can be colored to match the stone. Known as a hard seam, this method is more durable and lasts longer than the cheaper soft seams used by some installers.
Edge profile. In addition to straight, squared edges and rounded edges, a wide variety of more detailed edge profiles are available for stone countertops. With computer-controlled CNC equipment, custom edges are also available.
Installation process of custom countertops
One of the first steps in the installation process is to select the stone for your countertops. Typically, you travel to the company's facility and pick out the slab. Selecting your own slab ensures a color and pattern that is right for you. It will also help you avoid any unwanted surprises before the stone is cut.
Before fabrication begins, the estimator or template-maker creates detailed templates at your home. Workers then cut and polish the stone using the templates as a guide.
Afterward, the installation crew brings the fabricated stone to your home, removes the old countertops, and installs the new ones. Depending on the size and complexity of the job, the installation process may take more than one day. The workers typically rip out the old countertops right before installing the new ones, so you can still use the kitchen. In order to complete installation, they will often need to disconnect the plumbing and gas.
Once the countertops are in place, cook tops, plumbing, garbage disposals, and associated electricity are hooked up or installed. These services are usually outside the stone installer's scope of work.
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