What to Expect During Countertop Installation

Everything starts with the template, taken after your cabinets are installed and level. Many fabricators use a digital laser templater that captures exact dimensions, angles, and any walls that are out of square; others build a physical template. This is also when seam locations and slab layout are decided. The template is the blueprint the slab is cut from, so a careful, unhurried template visit is what produces tight fits and clean overhangs. Errors here cannot be fixed later without re-cutting.

With the template set, the slab is cut to size in the shop, sink and cooktop cutouts are made, and the edge profile you chose is shaped and polished. This off-site work is why there is typically a one-to-two-week gap between template and install — and it is a good thing, because precision shop fabrication beats trying to cut stone in your kitchen. If you are picking a natural slab, you may select your exact piece at this stage so the veining lands where you want it.

Old counters come out if the fabricator is removing them, then the new tops are carried in, set level, and shimmed as needed. Seams are joined with color-matched adhesive and tooled tight, overhangs are supported, and the pieces are leveled to each other. The sink and faucet are set, the perimeter is caulked to the wall and backsplash, and natural stone is sealed. Standard kitchens are usually done in a day; you typically wait a short time before heavy use while adhesive and caulk set.