Prep for Granite Counters
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Prep for Granite Counters
I am having my kitchen counters upgraded to granite. Depending on the contractor Im discussing this with, some say that they will need a sub-base (plywood) inset on the cabinet tops to glue the granite to, others say that they will attach the granite to the top ends of cabinet only and that a sub-base is not needed. Anyone have an opinion on which way I need to go? Do I need the support of a continous layer of plywood?
#2
mikeurz,
Although not necessary, DEPENDING ON WHERE THE COUNTERTOP IS LOCATED, it is recommended that you apply ¾ inch plywood sub-counter to the top of your cabinets to support the granite.
This does a couple of things...it will add support above appliances such as dishwashers and compactors, support holes for sinks and cooktops. It also helps support small cantilevered ends and breakfast bars. The slabs can be glued to this plywood surface using thinset, liquid nails subfloor adhesive or a two part (bondo) type adhesive.
The advantage to plywood is that you can level the slabs much more easily without moving them once they are in place. In any event, if you are using frameless (european type ) cabinets or framed cabinets that have upper retractable cutting boards, you will need to raise the granite ¾ inch to clear the double bull-nose which hangs down ¾ inch. Plywood is a cheap and easy way to do that.
The last issue is the ability to replace cabinets should that be desired down the line. The plywood would be screwed from inside the cabinets at the corners. You just never know when someone would like to upgrade cabinetry and use the old ones for storage somewhere else!
Basically, the installation company should be asked this question unless you are having doubts about their explanations and/or reluctance to install it properly.
Hope this helps!
Although not necessary, DEPENDING ON WHERE THE COUNTERTOP IS LOCATED, it is recommended that you apply ¾ inch plywood sub-counter to the top of your cabinets to support the granite.
This does a couple of things...it will add support above appliances such as dishwashers and compactors, support holes for sinks and cooktops. It also helps support small cantilevered ends and breakfast bars. The slabs can be glued to this plywood surface using thinset, liquid nails subfloor adhesive or a two part (bondo) type adhesive.
The advantage to plywood is that you can level the slabs much more easily without moving them once they are in place. In any event, if you are using frameless (european type ) cabinets or framed cabinets that have upper retractable cutting boards, you will need to raise the granite ¾ inch to clear the double bull-nose which hangs down ¾ inch. Plywood is a cheap and easy way to do that.
The last issue is the ability to replace cabinets should that be desired down the line. The plywood would be screwed from inside the cabinets at the corners. You just never know when someone would like to upgrade cabinetry and use the old ones for storage somewhere else!
Basically, the installation company should be asked this question unless you are having doubts about their explanations and/or reluctance to install it properly.
Hope this helps!