Ways To Avoid Cracking Your Granite Wortop
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by: Cameron
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Granite worktops are without doubt, are one of the strongest countertops available on the market today. That being said, they are not invincible. At some point during your granite worktops incredibly long life, it may, due to no fault of your own, become cracked. While cracked granite can be repaired, it certainly isn’t something you should ever have to do. With correct installation and knowledge, your granite worktop will last a lifetime. Below are a few tips on how you can prevent your granite countertop from becoming cracked.
Of course, accidents can happen, which result in a damaged worktop, but the number one cause for granite countertops becoming cracked or shifting, is incorrect installation. It is highly advised that you seek the services of a professional when installing your granite countertop. However, if you do want to take this task on yourself, here are a few important things to remember.
Stone does not bend or flex like laminate counters do, so a flat and stable mounting surface is key
All cabinetry and supportive devices should be securely mounted to the walls and each other
Island cabinetry should be secured to the floor
Proper use of shims under cabinets can be used to make the top flat and level
It is also advised that you use shims behind the cabinets as well; there is no such thing as a perfectly straight wall
Just remember, an easy way to gauge the straightness of cabinets, is to place a level (or a long straight edge, if available) across the fronts of the cabinets. If there are no gaps where your level meets the cabinet fronts, then you will have consistent countertop overhangs and a nicer finished project.
Unfortunately, as time goes by and houses settle; the seams in granite can pop, and thin pieces of granite can crack; this is especially true for older houses. There is very little that can be done about this.
We do not recommend that you attempt to repair your granite countertop, should it become cracked. The skills involved in the jog gluing, rodding, color matching of adhesives and top polishing are skills that are acquired over time and best left to an experienced technician.
It is possible to crack your granite countertop yourself, but this is very rare indeed. There are a couple of measures you can take to make it even less likely:
Use a ladder to change the light bulb or hang the curtains; do not stand on the countertop.
Do not allow children to hang on countertop overhangs. Only place heavy objects on the counter where it is supported by cabinetry.
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