One of the most important stages in the fitting of your granite kitchen worktops is templating. This process effectively measures the area where the proposed work surfaces will go, establishing the placement of any joins and cut-outs, while determining, logistically-speaking, how to get the large and heavy slabs of granite into the kitchen in the first place. The polished granite will then be cut to size using the template, thus it’s imperative that the measurements are exact.
In case you’re wondering, here’s are a few ways in which you can prepare for templating and fitting:
A weighty issue
The templater will visit you at a point when your carcasses and cabinets units have been installed, when the old work surface has been removed, so they will be able to see clearly where the granite is to be fitted. It is at this point that you and the templater will need to identify whether or not the floor and cabinets are strong enough to bear the weight – granite weighs around 90 kilos per square metre – and whether they have been securely fastened to the wall. You should ensure that the cabinets are level, too.
That sinking feeling
While the templater can give some advice on placement of cut-outs, it’s advisable that you agree in advance where the sink will be fitted and what sort of sink you want, as this has an impact on the template. Ideally, if opting for a heavy under-mounted sink, you will need a supportive cradle to be constructed on the carcass prior to the templater’s visit. All sinks require some sort of support, as filled with water, they double in weight. Most sinks will be supplied with fitting instructions.
Don’t move a thing
Once the templater has taken their measurements, it is vital that the carcasses and cabinets are not moved, as this could have a significantly detrimental effect on the final fit of the worktop. Naturally, consumers are at liberty to change their mind, however the templater would need to be informed and a new template produced. This is a costly and time-consuming task, thus only order the template when you are 100 per cent happy with the kitchen layout.
Clear the decks
Installation day has arrived! As mentioned above, granite is extremely heavy, so to help the expert fitters carefully move and place the slabs without incident, it’s advisable that you keep pathways free of any obstruction, tidy away any breakable items and shut away pets, to be on the safe side. It’s also useful to removal the carcass drawers and doors.
Rest assured that the fitters are experienced professionals, however, accidents can happen when manoeuvring heavy stone around small spaces. Preparation and some touch-up paint (for any chips) should mitigate the risk, though, Be aware that fitters won’t take responsibility for damage to any item that has been left out despite this advice.
He’s not heavy…
Granite worktops are usually installed by two fitters. On rare occasions, the stone will be too heavy for just two experts to lift and as such, it might be necessary for you to make arrangements for additional assistance. The templater should be able to let you know if this might be the case and help you organise an extra pair of hands or two through the vendor.
While the fitters can screw and seal in the sink, you will need to contact a qualified plumber to connect the pipes properly. Additionally, a GasSafe-registered engineer will be required for the fitting of your hob, so ensure these people are on hand.
Celebration!
When the granite worktops have been installed and inspected, you will be required to sign off the job and settle the balance. Fitters typically carry a portable payment facility, thus you will be able to pay via credit or debit card, if you so choose. After which point, you are left with a stunning addition to your kitchen; one which will no doubt be the source of pleasure for many years to come.