Do you want to install a granite sink to your kitchen countertop? Granite sinks are stylish and offer a beautiful addition to any home kitchen or bathroom. It features a sleek design that transforms any countertop into contemporary beauty.
Installing your own granite sink is a great project, but you can achieve this by measuring and planning carefully. These sinks install similarly to other drop-in sinks with a caulk that holds the sink in place on the counter. Granite sinks may be installed on any countertop material.
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6 Steps to Install a Granite Sink:
With the right tools in hand, you are ready to get started on installing the granite sink. It is important to be extra precise and follow the entire necessary step for effective installation.
Step 1: Draw a Template
Planning and getting the correct measurements is the first thing to start with. Use the cardboard or Kraft paper to create the template of the countertop. Place the large piece of the Kraft paper on top of the cabinet and trace the countertop then cut any excess paper to make an exact template.
Mark the spot where the sinkhole is and any other cuts in the granite. Ensure you take your time when doing this so that you can get a precise measurement. The moment this is done, trace the outline of the template onto the counter using the grease pencil.
Step 2: Draw Two More Lines
Determine the overlap distance between the two points by consulting the manufacturer manual. This will show how much counter must lie under the rim of the sink.
Measure the distance, and then draw the line inwards from the original outlines using the grease pencil. Redraw the second line with the overlap distance in line with the inside line. The line formed is where you will cut.
Step 3: Select the size of the overhang and add it to the template
Decide on the size of the overhang you want and then add it to the template. A standard overhang is 1.5 inches beyond the face of a cabinet below.
Never choose the overhang that is longer than 3.8 cm or 1.5 inches, since it will require an installation of the steel braces to support it. After selecting the overhang, adjust the template to add any additional measurements for the overhang.
Step 4: Reinforcing the countertop
Cut a piece of around 0.75 inches plywood to strengthen the top of the cabinets. Look for the plywood with the same measurements as the countertop template.
Place it on top of the countertop and then push it against the wall, and then measure it again while marking all the parts that require to be trimmed. Ensure you factor in the measurements of the overhang on the edges of the countertop while measuring and cutting the plywood.
Ensure the plywood levels perfectly on all the cabinets before making any drill. Attach and fit the plywood to the cabinets by drilling the screws through the cabinet. Apply a waterproof coat to the plywood to keep the moisture from permeating the plywood.
Step 5: cutting, fitting, and installing your granite slab
Dry fit perfectly the granite countertop to ensure it fits well. Position the granite slab on top of the countertop to adjust it so that it fits. Ensure that you are careful to avoid any breakage or damage. Identify all the cuts and adjustments that should be made. Place the countertop template on top of the slab and mark the adjustments to the outside edges to be made.
Using a handheld wet circular saw, cut the slab as marked. Position the cutting saw outside the marked lines and gently drag your blade across your granite slab.
Using a wet grinding wheel, smoothen the edges of the slab by slowly dragging your grinder back and forth along the edge on the granite slab until it is smooth. Using the tool, make rounded corners on the granite countertop. You can then run a clean wet cloth all over the granite surface to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
Step 6: Install the sink
Attach your sink to the sinkhole and ensure it fits correctly. Apply a bead of caulk around the corners or rim of the sink, where it sits on the granite. Run another bead of the caulk around the lower side of the sink where it attaches itself inside the cabinet. Make sure you are careful while applying the caulk to the top side of the sink for a smooth and stylish presentation.
How to Care Granite Composite Kitchen Sinks
A granite composite sink is designed with great durability and elegant style that is a fantastic addition to your kitchen. However, it requires extra care to keep it in tip top condition. Let us see some of the precautions you can take to keep your granite composite kitchen sink in a good condition.
- Daily cleaning
The best way to care for a composite sink is to clean it daily or regularly after every use. Use a sponge and some soapy water to clean it and ensure you dry off your sink when you are finished. This makes it easier to remove any limescale, stains, and water spots before they build up and take hold.
- Remove the stains using the white vinegar/ baking soda
Even though specific cleaners are available, you are advised to use white vinegar. Take the spray bottle and mix in half white vinegar and half water. You can then pray the sink with this solution and scrub the surface gently. Rinse the vinegar away and then dry the sink using a separate cloth. Ensure you don’t leave the vinegar on the surface of the sink but rinse it off completely.
- Things to avoid
Avoid using abrasive materials when cleaning your granite composite sink. Abrasive brushes, scouring pads and steel wool will leave scratch marks on the sink surface. Use soft sponges to clean your sink and protect the exterior of the sink. Also, avoid harsh chemicals. Avoid chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, sulphuric acid, ammonia, and hydrochloride.
Conclusion
Installing a granite sink is not as complex as the majority of individuals may think. Granite is a strong and durable surface, especially if the sink is well sealed during the manufacturing process. The steps provided above will help you understand the process of installing the granite sink.
