Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 28, 2000 12:44am | #1

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   Well, short of outlining the entire installation procedure, I think answering your question is somewhat difficult without knowing your experience. I mean, I could say, "Gather a couple of buddies and lift those suckers into place." if I thought you knew something about it. This answer would presume you knew how to fabricate for the edgework, how to match your seams from slab to slab, etc.

   Perhaps I am allowing myself to be too encumbered by the myriad details. Perhaps all you really want to know is what adhesive to use. If so, then I'll answer this way:

   Some guys don't use any adhesive, they allow for the wt of the slab to keep it in place. This, to me, is an inferior installation because it doesn't laeave margin for the slab deflection. Likewise, some guys use liquid nails or thinset spotted across the back. This too does not lend much support for the inevitable deflection of the slab over time. (Sure, it's granite for crying outloud and whatever deflection will be miniscule and involve a long period of time. However, is 1/16" lippage or gap w/i tolerances for you?)

   Myself, I use no less than 3/8" notch for 100% coverage using full flex thinset. This is after dryfitting all slabs, of course. Any low spots in the roughtop will be duly noted.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 28, 2000 02:31am | #2

   *What are you putting them on? Are the tops of your cabinets fully enclosed? Are your cabinets dead level ? Did you check them with a long straight edge or a laser? If your base cabinets are level and in line and don't require shimming use silicone. That's what all the granite fabricators around here do.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 28, 2000 03:17am | #3

   *And if your slabs include a sink cutout be very careful when handling and setting. Just a slight deflection and CRACK!

2. 
   Jerry_Levine | Jul 29, 2000 11:49pm | #4

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   Should a granite countertop be sealed and if so, with what?

   Secondly, us there a best way to maintain that top in a kitchen?

   Thank you.

   Jerry

3. 
   Paul_Bergeron | Jul 29, 2000 11:49pm | #5

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   I am building a home in South Lake Tahoe, and have purchase some
   premanufactured granite slabs for installation into my home from template that I made. How does the installation take place? Should I use thin set? If so what size notched trowel should I use?

   Please advise your experience, or you can send CAD drawing if you have one that outlines the components for the installation.

   Regards,

   Paul Bergeron