Worktop Installation
The secret to a good worktop installation is preparation – and installing a worktop involves a lot more than simply considering which materials to use. Worktop installation is one of the last things to happen in your kitchen renovation. But before your installer shows up to template the area (this ensures a perfect fit and minimal installation fuss), all cabinets must be permanently installed – nothing can move between template and install.
BEFORE INSTALLATION DAY
Sink and tap installation
Always have your sink onsite well before installation. For standard undermount or drop-in sinks, we make sure it fits into the sink unit, and it should be in the right position before installation day. The unit may need to be altered for the sink to fit, so don’t delay talking about this with us.
If you are installing a belfast sink, there can be several different ways to place the bowl. Think about the spot where the front edge of the worktop and the sink meet. Some sinks have a notch into which the worktop fits. The way this detail will align with the overhang should be decided in advance of installation day.
As for placement of the tap, most are centred on the sink. The sink drain may be offset. And you may want to centre the tap on a window or other architectural detail on the wall rather than on the sink.
Worktop overhang
If any section of your worktop will overhang the units (think of a breakfast worktop), consider how you will support this area. Overhangs of 15-30cm are possible without bracing, depending on the material, but an attractive bracket adds support and peace of mind should someone hop up and sit on your worktop.
Worktop height
Different people and tasks require different worktop heights. If custom units are not in your budget, one way to vary the finished height of the worktop is to use materials of different thicknesses set on standard units. A standard kitchen worktop is 900mm (plus or minus 20mm) off the floor, but if you have someone tall in your family, up to 1050mm may be a more comfortable height.
Worktop support
In most spots, your units will provide the support for the worktops, but think about what will support the worktop around your appliances. A slide-in range has a 5cm strip of worktop behind the cooktop. Because it is tricky to move two large slabs connected by a 5cm strip, this spot will often be seamed together onsite. Make sure you install wood blocking flush with the top of the adjacent units so the contractor can properly attach this strip.
Another common trouble spot is where a worktop ends on a dishwasher. The dishwasher can’t support the worktop, so provide structural support on the side – ideally more than a 17mm fill panel.
The plumbing
The sink will be clamped and siliconed in place, and the tap holes drilled, on install day, but your plumber will need to hook up the tap and drain before you can use it. Silicone and the glue used to seam materials together also give off powerful fumes, so make
POPULAR QUESTIONS
The installation time will vary depending on the size of your project and the type of worktop you choose. On average, the installation process takes 1-3 days to complete.
Clear out base units ensure accessories (sinks, hob etc.) are on-site and make a clear path to the space receiving installation.
Yes but bear in mind that both natural and engineered stone worktops are extremely heavy and should be handled with care. Depending on your project and the material you choose you may need to glue a colour matching adhesive to make the worktop seams