112 Oakgrove Rd. Unit 105 Sterling, VA 20166

APRIL 25, 2023

Key topics to discuss before buying countertops

When buying countertops, there are several things to consider beyond just the material and color. Here are some topics you should cover with your fabricator during your initial consultation. The following subjects will ensure a successful project from beginning to end.

TOPIC NO. 1 - OVERHANG SUPPORT

Overhang and span support

It's important to consider the size of your overhang and spanning between supports because it affects the stability of your countertops.

A larger overhang can put more stress on the countertop and may require additional support to prevent cracking or damage. There are several options for countertop support, including: Hidden Support Brackets, Corbels and Legs.

When choosing your countertop support, make sure it is strong enough to support the weight of your countertop and any items placed on it.

Overall, it's important to work with an experienced and reputable countertop installer who can help you choose the right size and support for your marble or quartz countertops.

TOPIC NO. 2 - DRAINAGE ISSUES

Drain height as a potential hurdle for deep sinks

Due to the increased depth of the sink, the drainage system may need to be adjusted to ensure that the water flows properly. This may require adjusting the slope of the drain lines, adjusting the drain height (when drain pipe comes through the wall) or installing a larger diameter drain pipe to accommodate the increased flow of water.

The increased depth of the sink may result in limited space underneath the sink, which can make it challenging to install plumbing fixtures and connect the plumbing to the sink. It's important to ensure that there is adequate space for the plumbing connections before installing the sink.

The weight of an 8" deep sink can put a lot of strain on the countertop and cabinet below. Ensure that the cabinet and countertop are strong enough to support the weight of the sink, and consider using additional supports, such as brackets or reinforcement beams, if necessary. Believe it or not some fabricators will use only silicon to secure a new sink which can cause water damage and floodin

TOPIC NO. 3 - DISHWASHER REMOVAL

Dishwasher most troublesome situation

Due to the increased depth of the sink, the drainage system may need to be adjusted to ensure that the water flows properly. This may require adjusting the slope of the drain lines, adjusting the drain height (when drain pipe comes through the wall) or installing a larger diameter drain pipe to accommodate the increased flow of water.

The increased depth of the sink may result in limited space underneath the sink, which can make it challenging to install plumbing fixtures and connect the plumbing to the sink. It's important to ensure that there is adequate space for the plumbing connections before installing the sink.

The weight of an 8" deep sink can put a lot of strain on the countertop and cabinet below. Ensure that the cabinet and countertop are strong enough to support the weight of the sink, and consider using additional supports, such as brackets or reinforcement beams, if necessary. Believe it or not some fabricators will use only silicon to secure a new sink which can cause water damage and floodin.

TOPIC NO. 4 - TILE, MOSAIC, FULL-HEIGHT BACKSPLASHES

Things to consider when getting backsplashes

When considering a kitchen renovation, installing a new backsplash can be a great way to add visual interest and functionality. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before diving into the project.

Firstly, the existing countertop surface may not be perfectly level, which can make installation challenging. Ensuring that the surface is level before beginning can save time and frustration. Additionally, installing a new backsplash requires additional materials and labor, which can increase the overall cost of the project.

Finally, grout can be difficult to clean and maintain, particularly in high-use areas such as a kitchen tile or mosaic backsplash. It may be necessary to periodically seal the grout to prevent staining and discoloration.

Overall, with proper preparation and maintenance, a new backsplash can be a beautiful and functional addition to any kitchen.

TOPIC NO. 5 - VEIN DIRECTION FOR BACKSPLASHES

Veining flow details to keep in mind

Choosing the right natural stone countertop can be a challenging process, particularly when it comes to ensuring that the veining flow complements the overall design of your space.

Here are some tips to help you select and plan your countertop to optimize the beauty of the natural stone. Start by obtaining a sample of the stone and place it in the room where the countertops will be installed to see how it looks in different lighting conditions. Consider the overall design of the room and select a stone that complements the color scheme and style.

Work with your fabricator to plan the layout of the countertop, ensuring that the veining flows in a way that complements the design of the space. Be open to variations in the pattern and color of the slab, as natural stone is unique.

When working with Calacatta quartz slabs, one of the most significant challenges is ensuring that the veins align properly. Careful planning and cutting can help to achieve a seamless and balanced look.

With these tips in mind, you can choose a natural stone countertop that adds beauty and functionality to your space.

TOPIC NO. 6 - SINK SUPPORT

Rodding will either strengthen or break your countertop

Rodding is a vital technique used in building kitchen countertops to enhance their strength and durability.

This process involves embedding metal or fiberglass rods into the underside of the countertop, providing reinforcement to prevent cracking, sagging, and other damage over time. Rodding is especially important in high-stress areas, such as around cutouts for sinks and cooktops, where the countertop is most vulnerable.

However, problems can arise if rods are improperly placed, sized incorrectly, or poorly installed. These mistakes can compromise the countertop’s structural integrity, leading to potential long-term issues.

When done correctly, rodding plays a crucial role in the fabrication and installation process, ensuring the countertop remains strong, resilient, and capable of withstanding daily use.

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