1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Buyers Guide for stone kitchen worktopsÂ
- Know what you are buying.
Before confirming your purchase, please make sure you understand what the material characteristics are of your chosen stone. Granite and marble are natural materials with natural flaws. Be aware that not all stones are suitable in all circumstances, we are happy to advise.
- Preparation for templating.
You need to provide a sound secure base for your worktops. Please make sure that carcasses are fixed to the wall and are set level. Voids should be no more than 60cm span and supported by battens at the back on the wall. Unsupported overhangs should be limited to 28cm.
Cut-outs will affect the maximum lengths that can be done in one piece. Get us to check your plan if this is a concern.
If you have existing tops on your kitchen these must be removed before our template is taken so that we can check the level and robustness of the carcass underneath and where joints are to go. Your joiner can assist with providing temporary tops between the template and the fit dates.
All cupboards that sit directly on the existing surface top must be removed before templating and only replaced after the new surface is fitted.
- Â Appliances on site.
Appliances such as sinks, hobs, cookers and taps must be on site when we visit to template so we can check cutout sizes. We will not make assumptions nor use web information for missing items. Measures for missing items will therefore require a chargeable return template visit.
Please note that undermounted sinks must be fitted into the frames but left loose so that they can be sealed to the underside of the granite where the cutout is. Leave at least 5mm slog.
- Â Be there when templates are taken.
It is always best if you can be on site when we come to template. This way we can check our assumptions and discuss details with you.
- Safety.
Stone is heavy and difficult to handle. Please consider access to your kitchen. Our templater will carry out a risk assessment when he visits and may need to discuss this with you.
- Â Fitting.
We will fit the tops as they have been templated. We will check disconnected appliances for fit into cut-outs where appropriate but please note that we are not plumbers nor electricians and cannot connect these appliances.
We will set undermounted sinks where they were templated and seal them to the underside of the granite with silicon. Please note we advise such sinks are left for 12 hrs to allow the silicon to cure before plumbing in.
- Â Care and Maintenance.
We provide care and maintenance information relevant to the stone purchased.
