1. Allow yourself a minimum of 4-6 weeks lead time so you are not rushed between sink selections, countertop companies, cabinet delivery etc. The more time you give yourself the better choices you can make and better work will be performed.

2. When selecting a fabrication company get a lot of referrals. Find out how long they have been in business, meet the people that you will be working with.

3. It is important to select sinks, cooktops and fixtures that will fit inside the inside cabinet allowance. Work closely with your cabinet company, plumber, appliance and fixture suppliers. Keep in mind, most cabinets are 24” deep which leaves 22 ½” of useable depth inside. When using undermount sinks, tilt trays, 3cm material or large faucets it is easy to run out of space, a little planning goes a long way. Remember to measure undermount sink space requirements including the flanges.

4. Proof your material. It is crucial when using a natural product to visually inspect the material prior to fabrication. This is a wise move for everyone involved.

5. Most raised serving bars require supports. Each support should be approximately 75% of the overhang. They must be installed level to each other. If the supports are not available at template, then ADP will provide temporary supports upon installation. Your cabinet company or trim carpenter can follow the counter installation with supports, especially if he knows about it and has ordered supports go with cabinetry.

6. When remodeling countertops you will need services beyond the countertop company. Plumbing, electric and cabinet work should be performed by licensed contractors. This is usually a separate job from demolition and installation of countertops.

7. Raised bars and full backsplash usually involve electrical outlet cut-outs in the granite. The rough wiring for these outlets must be finished with locations identifiable prior to the counter installation. It is not necessary to have electrical boxes or outlets installed, but the wiring behind the splashes must be complete before counter installation.

8. Appliance garages and upper cabinets that will rest directly on the counter need to have the proper thickness allowance. One approach that produces excellent finished results is to see if the cabinet installer can leave an extra 1/8th to ¼ inch of vertical clearance, and only temporarily tack the upper cabinets in place. Once the stone work is done, he can release his temporary attachments, and let the upper cabinets rest in direct contact with the stone counters.

9. It is best to have sinks and appliances on the jobsite at time of template to ensure the best fit possible.

10. There are scheduling factors that will help things run smoothly.

Have material firmly chosen prior to template. Have sinks and faucets at the jobsite or delivered to ADP prior to template. Ensure jobsite access on day of scheduled install. Delays can be the result of other trades working in the same area of the installation. Examples include: fresh driveway pour, interior painting, upper cabinet installation, any tile or flooring installations. In most cases, a little forward planning and communication can prevent this type conflict and allow all contractors to work to their best efficiency.

TOP