The only foolish questions are the ones not asked- Being prepared for the countertop installation

As I mentioned in a previous blog, the secret to a good countertop installation is being prepared!  The best way to be prepared is to ask questions.  This should be done at the measure consultation with your chosen fabricator.  Knowing who is responsible and what other contractors may be involved is very important in a successful countertop installation.  Most countertop fabricators will measure, fabricate and install your countertops but there are other things that need to be completed before the installation can commence and after the installation is complete.  Not being prepared can slow the project down and cost unnecessary money.  Some countertop installation companies do offer services above and beyond just installing the countertops so it is good to know what services are provided before and after the countertop installation.

Before the installation can occur, you need to know who is responsible for disconnecting the electrical or gas appliances and disconnecting the plumbing from the sink area.   It is very important that the company who will be performing these services is a professional and are certified to perform the work.  Who is responsible for removing the existing countertops?  Most countertop companies will take care of this but it is always a good thing to ask.  If there are any upper cabinets, out of level cabinets, large mirrors or trim that may interfere, these may need to be leveled or removed before the installation can start.  Sometimes there are supports needed for countertops that have extended overhangs so make sure to ask if any are needed and what types are available.  Some countertop companies offer supports and will be installed during or after the installation.  Knowing the countertop installation date is vital to scheduling any other contractors that need to do their work before the countertops are installed.  Make sure to get this date during the measure consultation or soon thereafter once fabrication begins.

Knowing how long the countertop installation will last is crucial in rescheduling any contractors that did any work prior to the installation. It is good to schedule any return visits for reconnects (gas, plumbing or electrical) or reinstallations (trim, upper cabinets or mirrors) when scheduling the initial visits.  Once the installation is complete, be prepared for any touch up work like painting, drywall or wallpaper repair and re-applying of grout or caulk.  Muscling a heavy counter into place is a difficult job, and some walls inevitably may get bumped or dinged.

I think I have covered the basics in being prepared for the countertop installation and hope I have answered any questions you may have had about the process.  Make sure to ask your fabricator questions, they are the professionals and can assist in the process of getting your new countertops.  The only foolish questions are the ones not asked!  I hope everyone had a great New Year Holiday and I hope 2018 is even better!!