All,
I am in the process of replacing my laminate kitchen countertops with Granite, and am contemplating doing the full backsplash (up to the bottom of the upper cabinets) in granite as well.
There is not a lot written about limitations to using granite in this manner. Is there anything I need to be aware of that is not obvious? I expect to have to extend the outlet boxws for the added thickness of the granite (current backsplash is 4″ glazed tile), but is there anything else, or any thoughts on the pro’s or con’s of using granite for a backsplash
Thank You.
Replies
Might be one of those few times that additional bracing might be wanted to hold the weight of the granite slab up as a backsplash--or, are you getting a thinner veneer for the splash?
Ought to be a neat effect, really. Standing out for being unique, if nothing else.
You already know about needing extension rings, so that's the major thing.
I'd put the splash over the counter, if only to make a neater joint (I've seen an install with the splash behind the counter, but that made me wonder where any leaks on the counter top's seal bead would drip "to" . . . )
I cannot overemphasize the importance of flat cabinet tops in a stone installation. Level and flat is even better.
Many fabricators I know of won't even template for full-height splashes until the tops are installed flat first.
If you install your tops first and make your backsplash templates out of Core-Plast (the corragated plastic that looks like cardboard) you should have no problems.