The Complete Countertop Fabrication and Installation Process: What to Expect

A complete countertop project follows six connected phases: initial consultation defining material, edge profile, and budget with line-item estimates; on-site templating capturing exact measurements with laser systems or physical templates; shop fabrication including slab layout optimization, CNC cutting, edge profiling, and quality inspection over 7-12 business days; installation day site preparation with cabinet leveling and old countertop removal; setting, seaming, and sink installation with color-matched epoxy and vacuum clamps; and final sealing, cleanup, and walkthrough with care instructions and sign-off documentation.

Understanding this process helps you prepare properly, set realistic expectations, and participate effectively in decisions that affect your finished countertops. From first measurement to final signature, each phase builds on the previous one—meaning early choices and preparation directly impact final results.

Professional countertop installation in Denver follows this proven sequence, ensuring precision fit and lasting performance through systematic quality controls at every stage.

Phase 1: Planning, Selection, and Estimate

This foundational phase defines the look, function, and budget before anyone cuts stone. Decisions made here guide everything that follows.

Consultation and Design

During initial consultation, you make key selections:

Material choice:

Granite, quartz, marble, quartzite, or other options
Specific slab selection from inventory or special order
Color family and pattern preferences

Design specifications:

Slab thickness (2cm or 3cm)
Edge profile (eased, bullnose, ogee, mitered, etc.)
Backsplash style and height
Sink type (undermount, drop-in, farmhouse)
Cooktop and appliance cutout requirements

Layout discussion:

Seam placement strategy for best appearance
Overhang dimensions at islands and peninsulas
Support requirements for longer spans
Special features (waterfall edges, drain grooves)

The fabricator reviews your layout, discusses potential challenges, and identifies anything adding cost or complexity before you commit.

Initial Measuring and Estimate

Rough measurements or architectural plans generate a line-item estimate covering:

Material cost (per square foot)
Fabrication charges
Installation labor
Sink and faucet cutouts
Edge profile pricing
Old countertop removal (if applicable)
Backsplash installation
Any special features or upgrades

Contract execution: Once you approve scope and price, you sign paperwork and pay a deposit (typically 50%) to lock in selections and start the process. This commitment reserves your installation slot and initiates material ordering if needed.

Phase 2: Templating—Capturing Exact Measurements

Countertops Templating—Capturing Exact Measurements

The template is the blueprint for your countertops. Accuracy here determines how well everything fits during installation.

Preparation Before Template Appointment

Your space must be ready before the templater arrives:

Cabinet requirements:

All base cabinets permanently installed
Cabinets level and secured to walls
Support structures and end panels in place
Corner cabinets accessible and functional

Items needed on site:

Sinks with dimensional specifications
Faucets with mounting requirements
Cooktops with cutout templates
Any accessories requiring holes or cutouts

Space preparation:

Clear existing countertops completely
Create safe, uncluttered work area
Ensure clear access path from entry to kitchen
Remove items stored on or near counters

On-Site Template Appointment

A trained technician visits your home to capture precise measurements:

Initial assessment:

Checks cabinet level and squareness
Identifies wall irregularities
Notes any conditions affecting installation

Template creation:

Physical “stick” templates traced to cabinet shapes, OR
Laser scanning system capturing digital measurements
Both methods achieve sub-millimeter accuracy

Detail confirmation with you:

Edge profile verification
Overhang dimensions at each location
Seam placement discussion
Backsplash height confirmation
Sink and faucet positioning
Special cutout requirements

Sign-off: You review and sign the template drawing before the technician leaves, locking in final dimensions. Changes after this point may incur additional charges or delays.

Professional stone fabrication begins immediately after template sign-off, with your approved measurements driving all production work.

Template Preparation	Required Status	Why It Matters
Base cabinets	Permanently installed, level	Template accuracy depends on final cabinet position
End panels	Complete and secured	Affects edge measurements
Sinks/faucets	On site or specs provided	Determines cutout sizes and positions
Countertop surfaces	Completely cleared	Technician needs full access
Access paths	Clear and unobstructed	Heavy equipment may be used

Phase 3: Slab Layout, Fabrication, and Finishing

Everything between template day and installation day happens in the fabrication shop. This phase transforms your measurements into finished countertop pieces.

Template Review and Slab Layout

Office processing:

Staff double-check template accuracy
Verify all specifications match your contract
Order slabs or pull from inventory based on exact square footage

Layout optimization: Programmers overlay your template on slab photos, positioning pieces for:

Best vein flow and pattern continuity
Color consistency across multiple pieces
Seam locations in least visible areas
Minimal material waste

This digital layout work ensures your finished countertops look intentional and cohesive rather than randomly assembled.

Cutting and Shaping

CNC or bridge saw cutting:

Template guides all cuts precisely
Straight runs and corners shaped to specification
Rough sink and cooktop openings created
Curves and radius corners executed

Edge profiling:

Your chosen edge profile shaped on CNC or router
Multiple polishing stages (50 grit through 3000 grit)
Uniform finish quality across all edges
Complex profiles like ogee require more time

Cutouts, Polish, and Quality Checks

Precision finishing:

Exact sink cutouts to manufacturer templates
Cooktop openings with proper clearances
Faucet and accessory holes positioned precisely
Special features (drain boards, grooves, waterfall miters)

Quality inspection:

Each piece checked for chips and damage
Polish consistency verified across surfaces
Dimensional accuracy confirmed against template
Seam edges prepared for tight joints
Natural stone sealed in shop (if applicable)

Scheduling Installation

Once fabrication is complete or nearly finished, the office schedules your installation window—typically 7-12 business days after templating, depending on shop workload and project complexity.

Phase 4: Site Preparation and Removal (Installation Day)

Installation day begins with creating a safe, clean environment for bringing in heavy stone slabs.

Arrival and Protection

Initial walkthrough:

Crew reviews layout and seam locations with you
Confirms everything matches expectations
Identifies any last-minute concerns

Site protection:

Drop cloths covering floors along transport paths
Cardboard protection on stairs and thresholds
Cabinet protection during removal work
Adjacent surface covering

Old Countertop Removal

If included in your contract:

Plumbing disconnected (if not done previously)
Existing countertops carefully removed
Old backsplash removed if specified
Materials hauled away per agreement

Cabinet and Support Check

Pre-installation verification:

Cabinet level rechecked after removal
Shims added where needed for flat plane
Extra supports installed at seams and overhangs
Bracket or corbel locations confirmed

Items verified on site:

Sinks ready for installation
Faucets and accessories available
Cooktops with installation hardware
Support brackets if required for overhangs

Phase 5: Setting, Seaming, and Sink Installation

This critical phase permanently joins your countertops to cabinets with precision work that determines long-term appearance and performance.

Dry-Fit and Adjustments

Each piece is carried in and positioned without adhesive first:

Verification checks:

Wall contact along back edges
Corner alignment and angles
Appliance clearances confirmed
Seam locations as discussed

On-site adjustments:

Minor scribing for out-of-square walls
Trimming for tight clearances
Vein and grain direction confirmation
Final layout approval before adhesive

Adhesive Application and Leveling

Setting process:

Beads or dabs of silicone/adhesive on cabinet tops
Stone carefully lowered into position
Level verified across entire surface
Shims used where needed for flat plane

Overhang verification:

Measurements checked against industry limits
Brackets or corbels installed for longer spans
Support adequacy confirmed before proceeding

Seam Bonding

Professional seaming:

Color-matched epoxy mixed on site
Pigments adjusted to match specific stone coloring
Adhesive applied to mating surfaces
Seam setters or vacuum clamps engage
Pieces pulled tight together and flush vertically
Excess adhesive removed before curing

Properly executed seams are tight, even, and nearly invisible—distinguishing professional work from amateur installations.

Sink and Faucet Installation

Undermount sinks:

Positioned using manufacturer templates
Clips or brackets installed for secure attachment
Adhesive applied for permanent bond
Reveal (visible edge gap) checked for consistency

Faucet and accessories:

Holes drilled if not completed in shop
Diamond core bits with water cooling
Holes cleaned of dust and slurry
Hardware ready for plumber connection

Backsplash and Caulking

Backsplash installation:

Stone or tile backsplash set with adhesive
Aligned to countertop edge
Joints caulked or grouted as specified

Waterproofing:

Perimeter joints sealed with flexible silicone
Sink perimeter caulked completely
Wall gaps sealed preventing water intrusion
Color-matched caulk at visible joints

Comprehensive natural stone supplier services include complete installation with proper waterproofing at all joints and penetrations.

Installation Step	Key Activities	Quality Standard
Dry-fit	Position without adhesive	Verify fit before committing
Setting	Adhesive, leveling, positioning	Flat, level, properly supported
Seaming	Color-matched epoxy, vacuum clamps	Tight, flush, nearly invisible
Sink mount	Clips, adhesive, alignment	Secure, waterproof, consistent reveal
Caulking	Silicone at all joints	Complete seal, color-matched

Phase 6: Sealing, Cleanup, and Final Walkthrough

The final phase ensures protection, cleanliness, and your complete satisfaction before the crew leaves.

Sealing and Surface Finishing

Natural stone sealing:

Applied if not sealed in shop
Multiple coats as needed for stone type
Wiped and buffed to finish
Curing time communicated

Quartz:

No sealing required (non-porous)
Surface cleaned and inspected

Final inspection:

Chips or scratches identified and addressed
Seam quality verified (tight, flush, smooth)
Edge consistency confirmed
Sharp areas smoothed if needed

Jobsite Cleanup

Professional installers leave your space ready for use:

Dust and debris swept or vacuumed
Stone cutting residue removed
Packaging materials removed
Offcuts hauled away
Old countertops removed per contract
Floors wiped clean
Adjacent surfaces cleaned
Protective coverings removed last

Homeowner Walkthrough

The lead installer conducts comprehensive review:

Installation verification:

Seam locations and quality
Sink installation and alignment
Support brackets and corbels
Backsplash alignment and caulking
Special features (waterfalls, miters, grooves)

Care instructions:

Recommended cleaning products
Products to avoid
Sealing schedule for your stone type
Heat and scratch precautions
Warranty information

Sign-off: You confirm everything matches contract and template, then sign completion documentation. This represents your acceptance of the finished installation.

After the Crew Leaves

Immediate post-installation:

Plumbing reconnection (usually same or next day)
Wait for adhesive cure (24-48 hours)
Wait for sealer cure (24-72 hours)
Avoid heavy loads on countertops
No standing or sitting on overhangs
Avoid harsh cleaners until fully cured

Normal use begins:

Follow care instructions provided
Use recommended cleaning products
Monitor seams and caulk joints
Schedule resealing per stone-specific timeline

Complete Timeline Overview

Understanding the full project timeline helps you plan appropriately.

Phase 1: Planning and Estimate (1-7 days)

Consultation and material selection
Estimate preparation and review
Contract signing and deposit

Phase 2: Templating (1-2 days)

Site preparation
Template appointment (1-2 hours)
Sign-off on measurements

Phase 3: Fabrication (7-12 business days)

Layout optimization
Cutting and shaping
Edge profiling and polishing
Quality inspection and sealing

Phase 4-6: Installation (4-8 hours typical)

Site preparation and removal
Setting, seaming, sink work
Sealing, cleanup, walkthrough

Post-Installation (24-72 hours)

Adhesive and sealer curing
Plumbing reconnection
Normal use begins

Project Phase	Duration	Your Role
Consultation	1-2 hours	Make selections, approve estimate
Pre-template prep	1-2 days	Prepare space, have items ready
Template	1-2 hours	Be present, approve measurements
Fabrication	7-12 days	None required
Pre-install prep	Day before	Clear paths, arrange disconnects
Installation	4-8 hours	Be available for questions
Curing	24-72 hours	Avoid heavy use, harsh cleaners

Key Takeaways

Six connected phases form the complete process from consultation and material selection through templating, fabrication, site preparation, installation, and final walkthrough—each phase building on decisions made in previous stages
Template accuracy drives everything downstream requiring permanently installed level cabinets, sinks and appliances on site with specifications, and your sign-off locking in final dimensions before fabrication begins
Fabrication takes 7-12 business days including slab layout optimization for vein flow and seam placement, CNC cutting to template specifications, multi-stage edge polishing, and quality inspection before delivery
Installation day follows systematic sequence of site protection, old countertop removal, cabinet verification, dry-fitting for adjustments, adhesive setting, color-matched seam bonding, sink mounting, and backsplash caulking
Final walkthrough confirms specification compliance including seam quality review, sink installation verification, care instruction delivery, and your signed acceptance of the completed installation
Post-installation curing requires 24-72 hours before plumbing reconnection, heavy use, or harsh cleaners—patience during this period ensures adhesives and sealers achieve full performance

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire countertop process take?

From signed contract to completed installation typically takes 2-4 weeks. This includes scheduling (1-7 days), templating (1-2 days), fabrication (7-12 days), and installation (4-8 hours).

What needs to be ready before templating?

Cabinets must be permanently installed and level, sinks and faucets on site or specifications provided, countertop surfaces completely cleared, and access paths unobstructed.

Can I make changes after the template is signed?

Changes after template sign-off may incur additional charges or delays since fabrication begins immediately. Contact your fabricator immediately if changes are necessary.

How long does fabrication take?

Fabrication typically requires 7-12 business days depending on shop workload and project complexity. Complex designs with waterfall edges or intricate cutouts may require additional time.

What happens during installation day?

Crews protect your floors, remove old countertops if included, verify cabinet level, dry-fit new pieces, set with adhesive, bond seams with color-matched epoxy, install sinks, and complete backsplash caulking.

How are seams made nearly invisible?

Color-matched epoxy mixed on site, vacuum clamps pulling pieces tight and flush, careful excess removal before curing, and final polishing create nearly invisible joints.

When can plumbing be reconnected?

Plumbing reconnection typically occurs the next day after adhesives set. Your plumber should wait at least 24 hours before reconnecting water supply and drain lines.

What should I avoid after installation?

Avoid heavy loads, standing on overhangs, and harsh cleaners for 24-72 hours until adhesives and sealers fully cure. Follow the care instructions provided during walkthrough.

What does the final walkthrough include?

Review of seam quality, sink installation, support brackets, backsplash work, care instructions for your specific material, and signed documentation confirming your acceptance.

How do I prepare for installation day?

Clear all paths from entry to kitchen, arrange plumbing disconnection if not included, empty cabinets under sink and cooktop areas, and be available for questions during installation.

Conclusion

The complete countertop fabrication and installation process follows six connected phases, each building on previous decisions and preparation. From initial consultation defining your material and design through templating that captures exact measurements, fabrication that transforms specifications into finished pieces, and installation that permanently joins countertops to your cabinets—understanding each phase helps you participate effectively and set realistic expectations.

Your preparation directly impacts results: level cabinets and proper site readiness enable accurate templates, which enable precise fabrication, which enables seamless installation. The 2-4 week timeline from contract to completion reflects the care required at each stage to deliver countertops that fit precisely and perform beautifully for decades.Ready to start your countertop project?

Contact Granite and Marble Designs to schedule your consultation and begin the journey from initial vision to stunning finished countertops.