Kitchen & Bath

Granite Countertops

This photo is how our kitchen came when we bought our home. We’ve already replaced the appliances and are now looking to remove the existing backsplash and put up new glass stick mosaic tile. I’d also like to have a larger sink put in (I’m sure you’ve heard me complain about this stupid little one…

by TownhouseLady
02/26/2009

This photo is how our kitchen came when we bought our home. We’ve already replaced the appliances and are now looking to remove the existing backsplash and put up new glass stick mosaic tile. I’d also like to have a larger sink put in (I’m sure you’ve heard me complain about this stupid little one before). While we’re at it the granite could also stand to be polished and resealed.

My question are:
– Number one, given that there is only about 5 inches of space between the existing sink cut edge of the countertop (wall) is it even possible to cut in for a bigger sink? How much of a (granite) lip should be left? There’s a few inches to be spared on the side next to the dishwasher but I’d like it to be centered with the cabinet. Would it be better to not do another undermount sink?
– What order should I do this in? I was thinking, remove the backsplash, remove the counter, have them do the sink cut, polish, reseal the counter while I’m installing the new backsplash. Then put the counter and the sink back in. Do they even need to remove the counter at all, can it be done in place?
– What is the approximate cost of polishing and resealing? There is quite a bit more counterspace along the other wall (not pictured). Is it priced per sq/ft?

Have any of you done this before that can give me some insight?

Thanks!

Kitchen & Bath

Comments

  2. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s possible unless you have the countertop picked up, brought to a stone shop, and recut. And even then, it might not be possible for them to do because of the prior cutout. It also doesn’t seem like anybody would want to go through all that effort unless you payed them a lot for the work.

    If you want to be “green” and maybe recoup some money, order a new countertop and list the the old one along with the old sink on Craigslist or even Brownstoner.

    When it comes to construction, trying to “refurbish” old thinks can often end up costing more in terms of time, aggravation, and money than just going new.

  3. Granite can be tempermental. I would have to take a look at it to see if there is enough room to cut. My company (Emerging Enterprises, LLC.)has a very experienced hard surface counter top guy that I work with. Please give me a call @ 917-548-4665 to set up a appointment.

    Thanks,

    Carl

  6. i’ve got about $300 of green glass tile left over if you want to make any offer.

    would only make sense if you were interested in the same tile etc, they are 1 in high by 2inch wide and come attached to a backing mesh in sheets of 12″ x 12″

    nothing wrong with them just way overestimated the amount we required.

  7. Not true–Of course places prefer you to buy the granite and get the cuts, but call a yard…you’ll find someone. Or ask a contractor. He/She will know someone who does smaller jobs. You should fax them the measurements, and your preferred sink size (so that they can determine whether it really can be done), and you’ll probably need about 2-3 inches lip on either side or risk breaking it. Broken, or cut cleanly, it can be seamed.

    If you do decide to replace the countertop as BRG suggested, you could always use the slab as a vanity top in a bathroom, or as a bar top.

  8. Related: I’ve love a recommendation for someone who will come and replace just the countertop (quartz or stone) and sink in a kitchen. Most places will only install if you are getting all new base cabinets.

  9. BHS- The faucet does have the pull down sprayer head and it certainly helps. The thing is, we’re going to be in this home for a long while and since I actually use my kitchen I want it to function conveniently.

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