Order of Installation

We are replacing the counters, backsplash and plumbing fixtures in our kitchen. Cabinets are staying the same. The old countertops have been removed, but the plywood they sat on is still there - though a little damaged with residue from the liquid nails which held the old counters.

1) Should we replace the plywood before the new countertop is installed?

2) We will have granite counters and subway tile backsplash. What order should we install these? Counters first or tiles first?

3) Our sink is separate from our faucet and the sink is an undermount. The faucet installs through the counter. Should we install the new kitchen faucet before the counters (or at the same time), or should we just prep the holes for the faucet and just let the granite guys line up the holes?

Thanks!

 

You won't need the plywood if installing granite slab. Remove the plywood. Let the granite guys install the slab and cut the holes for faucet. Usually holes are cut when countertop is fabricated. If someone came to measure for countertop, they should have measured to center of sink and made note of the spread of the faucet and number of holes. If you were going with a different faucet and hole arrangement for the new faucet, then this should have been made known.

Remind granite guys to bring recommended sealer. You will need to seal the granite and keep it sealed as recommended. After they leave you can install the faucet and the tile in backsplash area. You can go ahead and prep the wall for tile installation before granite guys come. Make sure you cover countertop when tiling wall.

For an interesting newspaper article on granite care: http://www.chicagosuntimes.com/outpu...ounter24w.html

 

The backsplash is done last, regular drywall is fine here, don't paint it or prime it, if using ceramic subway tile, you can use mastic to set them, if stone or larger tile is used, use a modified thinset, hope this helps.