Here are the steps to take when cutting granite countertops for a kitchen remodel or other home renovation project.
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Introduction
Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or hiring a professional, granite countertop installation is a project that requires precision and some specialized tools. One of the critical steps is cutting the granite to size for the installation. This guide will walk you through the process so you can confidently tackle this project from start to finish.
Tools You Will Need
In order to cut granite countertops, you will need a few tools. You will need a tape measure, a level, a marker, a hammer, chisels, a cold chisel, a circular saw with a diamond blade, goggles, gloves, and a respirator. You will also need access to water and electricity.
Cutting the Countertop
Depending on the size and weight of your granite countertop, you may be able to cut it yourself. However, it is always best to hire a professional to do the job for you. If you do decide to attempt it yourself, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, always use a diamond saw blade when cutting granite. Granite is one of the hardest materials on earth, so using a regular saw blade will not work. You can find diamond saw blades at most hardware stores.
Second, make sure you have a strong support for your granite countertop. It is very heavy, so you need to make sure it is supported properly before attempting to cut it.
Third, use plenty of water when cutting granite. The water will help keep the saw blade cool and prevent it from overheating.
Fourth, go slowly when cutting granite. You don’t want to rush and end up with a bad cut. Take your time and make sure each cut is straight and even.
Once you’ve cut your granite countertop to the desired size, you will need to finish the edges. You can use a router or a hand sander to smooth the edges down. Be careful not to sand too much, as you don’t want to damage the stone.
Finishing the Countertop Edge
After you’ve installed your granite countertops, you’ll need to finish the edges. The most popular edge profiles are half bullnose, full bullnose, OGEE, and Dupont.
To finish the edge of your granite countertop, you’ll need a router bit that matches the edge profile you want to create. You can find these bits at most hardware stores or online.
Once you have the router bit, follow these steps:
1. Set up your router with the bit installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Put on safety glasses and a dust mask.
3. Plug in the router and turn it on.
4. Position the router bit at the edge of the countertop where you want to start cutting.
5. Apply firm pressure to the router and move it along the edge of the countertop until you reach the end.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 until all of the edges are finished.
Sealing the Countertop
It is important to seal your granitecountertopbefore you use it. This will help to protect the surface from staining and make it easier to clean. You can buy a special granite sealer from most home improvement stores. Follow the instructions on the sealer bottle for the best results.
