Marble countertops are admired for their timeless elegance and unique aesthetics. Each marble slab has an intricate design that comes in a variety of colours, from classic whites and greys to more exotic pastel shades.
Using marble for kitchen or bathroom renovation will not just elevate the entire look but also create a high-end space in your house. However, this beautiful transformation requires a proper understanding of marble countertop installation if you want to DIY.
In this blog, you will find a step-by-step guide to planning, preparation, and final polishing in the marble installation process. This will further help you make an informed decision at every step of installation.
Arrange Tools and Materials Before Installation
Here are the following necessary materials that you should arrange ahead of time, before the installation process.
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Gather essentials like a marble countertop, underlayment, adhesive, sealant and caulk.
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Prepare tools, such as a drill, hammer and a tape measure to ensure smooth workflow.
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Take accurate measurements of the installation space and prepare a layout accordingly.
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Put the countertop on cardboard or butcher paper and trace it for visualising placement and for precise cutting.
It is highly suggested to seek help from an experienced contractor for accurate measurements, correct fitting and a polished look.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Appoint a Specialist
It is better to appoint a specialist rather than install the marble on your own. The expert will not only install but also provide you with samples in different materials, colours, and edge styles to ensure you choose the right option within your planned budget.
There is a higher possibility that you will get a quote for the project, which should be paid prior to the installation process.
Prepare and Cut Marble Countertop
It is important to prepare a proper, clean surface to ensure a smooth and durable installation process. Here are a few things one should do during the preparation process:
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Accurately measure the space where the marble countertop will be installed.
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Shift the measurements onto the marble slab and precisely cut the material to size.
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Safely make use of a wet saw for cutting marble along the marked lines.
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Make sure to use safety gloves and protective eyewear while using a wet saw.
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After cutting the marble to its ideal size, put it away from ongoing work in a clean area.
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Prepare the marble surface by buffing to increase the shine or by sanding to remove the minor faults.
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Clean the dust and debris from the marble with soap and water.
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After washing, you can also rub alcohol with a soft cloth or paper towel for deep cleaning.
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Make sure to dry the marble completely before proceeding to the next step of installation.
Prepare the Surface
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Remove the previously used countertop and deeply clean the area to prepare the surface.
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Repair damaged surface, if any, to have a smooth and level base.
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Check the fitting of the space and measure the diagonal sink corners to find the width.
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Remove the leftover adhesive with the help of a wire brush or abrasive pad.
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Use mineral spirits or paint thinner to clean remaining residue.
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Carefully apply contact cement to one side of each marble slab and matching edge pieces.
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Let all the glued pieces and parts dry properly for 24 hours.
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Once fully dry, flip those pieces onto the adhesive side and press them for proper alignment.
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Lastly, apply more contact cement beneath the seams to ensure it seeps when pressed.
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Let everything dry for another 24 hours before the next step of installation.
Sand Down the Edges
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Check the surface by smoothing the edges of the existing countertop before installing the new marble countertop.
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The above step will provide an even base for the new marble slab to rest on safely.
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Use a handheld electric sander and coarse-grit sandpaper to remove uneven areas.
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Gradually shift to finer-grit sandpaper to have a refined and polished look.
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During sanding, make sure to wear a dust mask to prevent yourself from inhaling fine dust particles.
Properly Seal It All Up
In the last step of installation, make sure to seal the marble countertop properly to ensure durability over time. Here are a few things you should do:
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Use a damp or lint-free cloth to clean and remove the dust particles or residues from the entire surface.
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Let the surface dry thoroughly for effective sealing before continuing to the next step.
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Use high-quality stone sealer and apply a thin coat with a clean cloth, brush or sponge.
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Make sure to cover the small sections with small and consistent strokes.
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Wait for the first layer of sealer to dry fully in 24 hours before proceeding to the next step.
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Once completely sealed, apply a thin coating of stone wax on the sealed surface with a clean applicator.
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Let the wax dry for 24 hours, and later polish it with a soft microfiber cloth to improve its shine.
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Make sure to occasionally check the sealing and waxing to protect the surface from stains, scratches or any other damage.
Make the Countertop Installation Hassle-Free!
The process of marble countertop installation can be intimidating for some people. However, with the appropriate tools, right preparation and care, you can easily elevate the aesthetics and functionality of your home. Marble countertops have elegance and ageless charm, which makes them a worthy investment for kitchen and bathroom areas.
If you have basic skills and the right tools, it is possible to perform a DIY installation. However, intricate designing or large slabs will require professional assistance to ensure security and precision at work.
Whether you want to refresh your kitchen or design a new space altogether, choose a marble countertop for a timeless appearance. It will bring a classic and luxurious feel to your house, ensuring to reform and enhance your lifestyle.
