Once you have made the decision to have granite countertops or flooring included in your home's décor, you may be a bit concerned about what to expect during the installation process.
After all, this is a big investment in your home and you want to know that you have made a good decision.
Assuming you have hired a professional granite installation company then you can rest assured that your finished countertops or floor will be all that you imagined.
However, even though you know you have done your homework in the selection of the granite and the installer, you may still have some concerns.
To put your mind at ease, here are some reassurances as to the durability and strength of granite.
Installation Considerations of Granite

• Granite countertops are one of the hardest surfaces you can use in your home, yet they are easier for your cabinets to support than the weight of the average person standing on the countertop.
  

• Granite countertops are measured the same way as any other countertop in your home; however, they cannot be measured until the cabinet below has been installed.
  Also, be sure that the fabricator who is installing them does the measuring.
  

• Be sure that you/the installer leaves plenty of time for the project to be finished.
  Typically it takes 3 to 4 weeks from the date that the measurements were made.
  If there are any problems in the course of installation, this time will be longer.
  

• Granite slabs are typically sold in 10 foot rectangular sections, so it is not uncommon to have at least one seam.
  Also, using an "L" shape is not uncommon as it is more cost effective and works best for corners.
  When possible, seams in bathroom countertops will be at the sink bowl so that the seam is less noticeable.
  Granite may, or may not, be installed on top of plywood, it is up to the installer to determine if it can be done based on your specific situation.
  

Seaming There are several things to keep in mind about granite seeming.
After all, they are part of the overall look and can add to the character and beauty of the finished product.

• Seams are always made on a straight edge and sealed with a small bead of silicone.
  The silicone bead will be between 1/16 and 1/8 of an inch.
  

• Granite slabs vary in thickness so to prevent an uneven seam, installers use shims on the underside of the top to bring the upper surface flush.
  This is a normal part of the installation process, so do not panic if you happen to notice shims, should you decide to watch part of the installation process.
  

• It is a standard practice to have some type of backsplash when having granite countertops.
  Typically, the backsplash is at least 4 inches high, though it can be higher if you like.
  

• Most granite countertops will have an overhang of 1 inch, but this can be modified if desired.