The kitchen is the heart of the house. And countertops are probably the number one item that adds to the beauty and comfort of your kitchen. Since the sink is usually a large unit, it’s important that it be installed to properly fit in the countertop. The installer is an expert and works hard at his/her trade.
Countertop installers do install the sink but they do not usually connect the plumbing. The sink needs to correspond with the countertops for continuity. The countertop installer will cut the holes for the sink, faucet, and soap dispenser, as well as install the sink.
A countertop installer not only has the skill but also understands the aesthetic and physical properties of countertops, sinks, and base cabinetry. This involves construction, design, and craft. And your countertop installer should be able to take care of it all – except the plumbing.
If you have an undermount or drop-in sink there are different measures taken into consideration.
For an undermount sink the installer will attach the sink using silicone and sink clamps.
For a drop-in sink the installer will cut the hole for the sink if not already cut and set the sink in place. They will also use silicone to connect the sink to the countertop and use sink clips underneath to firmly attach the sink.
If, for instance, you choose an undermount kitchen sink with granite countertops:
The countertop installer doesn’t do the plumbing. And from a skill standpoint, you don’t want the plumber installing the sink.
Note: Make sure you have all your plumbing disconnected prior to the sink installation.
Countertop and sink installation is a construction process. It will be a little difficult to live around for a while. There is bound to be:
It will take several hours to accomplish the installation, and that doesn’t include installing the backsplash. There usually will be some onsite cutting to customize your countertop sizes, so you’ll want to take some precautions against the dust that will be everywhere. Precautions to take include:
A professional countertop installer will probably put up some plastic for you. They will also clean up the mess. But you’ll still need to cover your treasured items. And the dust is so fine that you’ll find despite all the precautions, some of the particles of dust will be around.
Remember, large slabs of stone or whatever material you choose will be carried into your home. Keep all children and pets away. This is a construction site for a few hours, and there are dangers associated with construction.
You also want to clear a path from the door to your kitchen. Make sure you take artwork off the walls and store it in a safe place. And don’t forget the hallway walls. Anything hanging on the walls could get bumped as the installers carry the countertops into your home. If your bathroom is receiving a new sink/countertop, follow the same procedure.
Before you install a sink or countertops, you will need to do some prep.
The template is the footprint the installer will create and use as a kind of stencil to create your actual countertop. Everything you expect to have in your kitchen will have to be present at the time of the template creation so your installer can account for it in the final cut.
Because there are differences in kitchen layouts and different size slabs, you will probably have to deal with a few seams. You will need to discuss the seam placement with your installer.
A backsplash is an animal onto itself. You will want to confirm ahead of time that your countertop installer can also install backsplashes. Not all of them will do it. For instance, if you are having a subway tile backsplash, you may need to find a tile expert to install.
If you are having a backsplash installed up to the cabinets or around a range hood, it is imperative that the cabinets and hood be installed before measuring. If this doesn’t occur, you could have a very expensive mistake on your hands.
Most countertops cost anywhere from forty dollars to a hundred dollars per square foot. This includes installation. Concrete countertops are the most expensive at forty dollars to one hundred and twenty dollars per square foot. The deviation in price depends on what region you live in.
Backsplash installation is a separate cost for materials and labor and can vary widely, depending on the material and style you choose.
Making the decision to install new countertops comes can turn into a big investment. It will not only make the kitchen and more attractive but will also increase your home’s overall value.
When someone looks at a new house, they head straight for the kitchen. Yours needs to be a showcase, and new countertops and sink will be a major contributor to the look. There are some steps you will take when making the right decision and installing new countertops.
When choosing to install countertops, there are a lot of options. Some options include:
They all have their pros and cons. But ultimately, it comes down to your lifestyle. Do you have small children who are hard on countertops? If you do, you might want to choose quartz over bamboo. You also need to consider your taste and budget. Kitchen remodeling is a big investment, so make sure it’s something you want to look at day after day.
You will probably be installing a new sink with your countertops. There are many types available. Some of them include:
Once more, it comes down to personal taste and budget as to what style and material you’ll choose. Kitchen sink prices can vary from $200 for a basic style upwards of $2,000 for higher-end models.
The installer will need to measure the countertop and sink space. He/she will need to make a template of the different holes (sink, etc.) or stove area, in your kitchen. You’ll want to make sure your cabinets are plumb. They must also be:
Always be on hand or have another adult on hand when the installation is taking place. Questions might arise. You’ll want to give your input so there aren’t surprises after the fact. For instance, discussing and determining where a seam will be.
Most professional installers will leave you instructions on how to care for your new sink and countertops. But do the research. If you choose quartz, you’ll have little maintenance. Quartz is very durable.
However, if you go with the eco-friendly bamboo, you may need to reapply mineral oil and beeswax periodically. Find out what you’ll need to do for your particular countertop or sink. Hopefully, you’ve done the research upfront so there are no surprises.
This is the age-old question when hiring any service worker. When someone is installing a sink or countertop, they are in your home for several hours. Let’s face it; they really work hard, carrying and cutting those slabs and measuring everything to perfection.
And the professional ones try to keep the mess down as much as possible. So, your inclination is to tip. But ask yourself, would you tip your child’s teacher or your doctor? After all, they work hard too. If you insist on doing something, try these options.
Keep in mind that these are skilled tradesmen, and they might be offended if you offer them a monetary tip. However, you should always make your appreciation well-known by complimenting them to the owner or supervisor. And always share favorable reviews online to acknowledge a job well done. This will bring more of a long-term payoff than your cash tip!
