How to Cut Granite Counter Tops

As a part of installing granite counter tops, you may have to cut into the granite. Granite counter top cuts are made to fit pieces of the slab into the designated areas as well as make openings for appliances, such as the kitchen sink. Since granite counter tops are produced from stone, you will need to use special tools to ensure that the cuts are made accurately and without causing the stone to chip.

Instructions

1

Produce a template for the granite counter tops. As part of installation, a template is required in order to determine where the cuts for the counter top need to be made. To make a template, pieces of plywood are placed along the edges of the existing counter top area and glued together.

2

Make any special notes about the cutting on the template. For instance, you may need to cut out holes in order to allow for the nozzle to go through. Jot down how many holes and dimensions.

3

Place the template onto the slab of granite. You can use chalk to trace the outline onto the piece of stone. The chalk will help guide you while you make your cuts.

4

Use a laser-sided saw to cut the granite counter tops. A saw with a vacuum attachment that cuts to a depth of 4 cm of more should be more than adequate and minimize the mess. In order to ensure that the saw cuts through the granite, you will need to purchase an 8-inch diamond blade in order to reduce vibrations as you cut through the stone. Work the saw slowly over the chalk markings while keeping the saw steady at all times. Another option you can do is to make the cuts using a wet saw while keeping the granite moist throughout the process. To cut edges, tilt the saw and make the cuts with the saw at a 45 degree angle.

5

Smooth out the cuts that you have made. You can use a small handheld grinder to smooth out the edges on the cuts that you made. Run the grinder over the spots that you made cuts until it has evened out. Clean and polish the areas once you are done.