Q1. What happens once I choose my new countertop surface?
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Answer: The
installation company will visit your home to take final
measurements and make a template for the new countertop. The
fabricator uses the template to create your new countertop
to fit your room’s exact dimensions. If you haven’t already
provided the company with your new sink, cooktop or other
appliances that mount to the countertop surface, you should
do so at this time. When the finished countertop is ready,
the company will contact you to schedule an installation
date.
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Q2.
What about the old countertops? |
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Answer: Some
installers include removal of the old countertop as part of
the cost of replacement. Others may charge an additional fee
for removal and disposal of the old countertop. Be sure you
discuss the details of countertop removal and disposal with
your sales person at the time you finalize your purchase. |
Q3.
How should I prepare for installation day? |
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Answer: It
is advisable to completely empty the base cabinets where the
new countertops will go of all items, including removing the
drawers. This makes it easier for the installers to gain
access to the countertop during installation. It also keeps
your belongings clean and free from incidental dust arising
from the countertop installation. |
Q4.
Do I need to hire a plumber and/or an electrician? |
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Answer: Some
companies offer removal and re-installation of the sink,
cooktop, disposal, etc. as part of the countertop
installation for an additional fee. Others require you to
hire a plumber and electrician yourself. Be sure to discuss
the details of sink and cooktop removal/installation with
your sales person at the time of sale. |
Q5.
Do I need to be on site when the new countertop is
installed? |
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Answer: The
short answer is yes. Although a reputable installation
company will carry the necessary insurance to protect your
home while their employees are on the job, decisions often
need to be made regarding the final installation that only
you (or your representative) can make. Also, most companies
require final payment for the countertop at the time of
installation. You, or your representative, will want to
inspect the final product before writing the check. |
Q6.
How do I care for my new countertops? |
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Answer: Most
countertop surfaces wipe clean with a soft cloth and a mild
solution of soapy water for normal wear. Scratches and
stains are more difficult to remedy and sometimes will
require the services of a professional. Be sure to go over
care and cleaning of the countertop with your sales person
at the time of purchase. If your countertop surface is
man-made (as opposed to natural stone), there is generally
some kind of warranty provided by the manufacturer. Be sure
to read the warranty information card for details on what
type of use might void the warranty. |
Q7.
Can I cut on my countertops? |
Answer: Although
the performance characteristics of countertop surfaces vary
from material to material, virtually all manufacturers
recommend against cutting directly on the surface. You can’t
go wrong using a cutting board to protect your countertop
investment.
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Q8.
What about putting hot pots on the countertop? |
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Answer: The
performance characteristics of specific materials will
determine to what extent you may place hot pots directly on
the countertop surface. In general, it is a good idea to use
trivets when placing hot pots or heat producing appliances
on your new tops. In some cases, not using a trivet could
actually void the material warranty provided by the
manufacturer. |
Q9.
Will there be seams in my countertops? |
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Answer: The
countertop material you select determines the sheet and slab
sizes available from the manufacturer, from which your
fabricator will create the new countertop. The type of color
and pattern in the surface you choose will also determine
whether the fabricator can build tops to fit your kitchen
without seams. In the event the layout of your kitchen
requires the countertops to be fabricated with one or more
seams, they should be inconspicuous when installed by an
experienced professional. |
