What to Expect on Installation Day: A Step-by-Step Guide
You’ve picked your stone, approved the layout, and now the big day is here — installation day! For many homeowners, this is one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) steps in the process. Knowing what to expect can help the day go smoothly and leave you feeling confident from start to finish.
Here’s a step-by-step look at what typically happens during a countertop installation.
1. Pre-Arrival Prep
Before the crew arrives, make sure:
Cabinets are fully installed and level
Old countertops are removed (unless your installer is handling demo)
Sinks, faucets, and appliances are on-site and accessible
Clear access to the workspace — remove items from drawers, move furniture, and clear pathways
Pro tip: It’s also a good idea to cover nearby furniture or flooring with plastic or drop cloths just in case.
2. Delivery & Inspection of the Slabs
The installers will arrive with your cut, fabricated stone pieces and may do a quick inspection on-site to confirm everything looks correct.
They’ll check for chips, flaws, or unexpected color variations
You'll get a chance to confirm the stone and layout before installation begins
3. Dry Fit and Placement
The team will begin by dry-fitting the pieces to make sure they align properly and sit level on the cabinetry. If there are multiple slabs, this is where seams are carefully aligned for pattern flow.
They’ll also:
Check overhangs and edge alignment
Make any minor on-site adjustments
Confirm cutouts match sinks, cooktops, and fixtures
4. Securing the Countertops
Once everything fits perfectly, the slabs are:
Adhered to the cabinets using construction adhesive or silicone
Seams are joined and sealed with color-matched epoxy for a clean, professional finish
Any supports or brackets for overhangs (like on an island) are secured
Important: If your stone requires a seam, your fabricator should have already discussed placement with you during the layout process.
5. Sink and Cooktop Installation (If Included)
If you have an undermount sink, it will be attached and secured from below. The installers will also make sure faucet holes are drilled if needed.
Drop-in sinks and cooktops may be test-fit, but final installation might be handled by your plumber or appliance installer.
6. Cleanup and Final Walkthrough
Before leaving, the crew will:
Clean the surfaces
Remove debris and tools
Walk you through care instructions
Answer any last-minute questions
You may be asked to avoid heavy use for 24 hours, especially if epoxy or adhesives need to fully cure.
7. What’s Not Included
While countertop installers handle the stone, they typically don’t connect plumbing or install appliances. Be sure to schedule your plumber or electrician for:
Reconnecting sinks and faucets
Installing your cooktop or dishwasher
Hooking up garbage disposals or water filters
Installation day should be exciting, not stressful.
When you work with us, we’ll walk you through every step ahead of time — and be available for questions even after install is complete.