Are you having your kitchen renovated or remodelled? Or are you bored of your countertops and looking to upgrade them?
Whatever the reason, changing your countertops can make a huge visual impression and impact the look and feel of your space.
That said, kitchen countertop installation can be stressful, especially if you don’t know what to prepare for. Purchasing countertops and having them installed is a complex job, and a lot can happen.
Fortunately, our kitchen countertop contractors are installation experts. Here, they share the process of installing new countertops, whether you want marble, quartz, or granite kitchen countertops.
Kitchen Countertop Contractors in Toronto Explain What to Expect with a New Countertop Installation
Here, we walk you through a professional installation.
1. Selecting a Material
The first step in your kitchen countertop installation project is to choose a suitable material. Some critical factors to consider are their cost, style, and durability.
How you will use the space is another major determinant in understanding what material will be best for it. For instance, marble is a soft, porous natural stone best suited to low-traffic areas. On the other hand, quartz is a durable material that can last many years, making it suitable for high-use kitchens. Granite is the best option for outdoor installations, as it can withstand external factors such as changing weather conditions and sunlight better than other materials.
Your best bet is to speak to us to determine the best material for your space based on your budget and the style you prefer.
2. Fabricating Individual Pieces
Next is the fabrication of your countertop. Doing it correctly ensures that it fits seamlessly into your space. When you work with experienced kitchen countertop contractors in Toronto, you will be presented with fabricating templates of different shapes and sizes. During the fabrication process, the stone slabs are cut and prepared to be installed on-site.
You will need to prepare the space for the contractor so they can finalize the dimensions of the project. This means clearing off your existing countertop, including appliances. If any faucets, sinks, or appliances are to be replaced, make sure they are available to measure. These could include fixtures, items or components such as sinks, faucets, cooktops and other additional appliances that will be integrated into the countertop surface. Ensuring that these elements are available for measurement during the planning and preparation stage ensures proper alignment and precise fit when the countertop is installed. And, this proactive approach also helps the kitchen countertop contractor factor in the exact dimensions of the different elements, guaranteeing that they are seamlessly integrated into the countertop surface without any hassle. This leads to a more well-fitted and accurate installation.
3. Preparing Your Space
Creating a clear pathway for the installation team to reach the installation area is essential. Remember, they will be carrying stones that weigh a lot.
Also, ensure that your home’s entryway is free from obstructions to prevent any accidents. If you have any pets and/or children, they should be kept out of the way, too.
You should also prepare your kitchen and remove the top drawers and cabinetry. This ensures your installation team has access to the underside of the new countertop.
And don’t forget your furniture. It’s advised to cover all furniture in the space, such as tables, chairs, couches, et cetera, with drop cloths to ensure they don’t get dusty.
4. Installing Your Kitchen Countertops
Once your kitchen space is ready, your kitchen countertop contractors will visit your home to install your new countertop. The installation crew will start by removing your old countertop. Then, they will bring in the new countertop material, possibly in sections. Your countertop installer will use shims to ensure the countertop is level. However, since your kitchen will be a construction site, scrapes and nicks may occur to the cabinets and drywall as the experts move the stone pieces.
After your kitchen countertop has been placed and levelled, the contractors will colour-match epoxy for the seam. Then, they will use a seam setter to pull the countertop slabs together at the seam. While waiting for the epoxy to set, they will apply silicone to the underside of the countertop and secure it. Finally, the new sink will be installed.
5. Polishing and Finishing
As you end your countertop installation, your kitchen countertop contractor will focus on achieving impeccable polish and finish. This ensures that your Toronto kitchen countertop is free from imperfections. If you’ve chosen a glossy finish, the installation experts will dedicate ample time to perfect the lustrous sheen. Alternatively, for a matte-finished surface, the installation will be quicker as it requires less time to be completed. Over time, a matte surface also requires less maintenance than a shiny surface.
As you begin your journey of upgrading your kitchen space with new countertops, understanding the intricacies of the installation process is important. And with skilled experts working for you, the process will be well-coordinated and result in a stunning centrepiece for your space. With the right professionals, your kitchen countertop in Toronto will be installed perfectly, ensuring the final product aligns with your vision.