Installing new countertops is one of the most exciting parts of a kitchen or bathroom renovation. Proper preparation helps prevent delays, protects your home, and allows the installation crew to complete the project as efficiently as possible. At Superior Granite, our experienced installers work carefully to ensure every countertop fits properly and looks beautiful for years to come.

Before Install Day Checklist

Why Is It Important to Clear the Installation Area?

Countertop materials such as granite, quartz, quartzite, and marble are heavy and require careful handling during installation. Installers often carry large pieces through doorways, hallways, and living spaces before placing them in the final location.

A clear path helps improve safety, prevents accidental damage to furniture or walls, and allows the installation team to work more efficiently. Removing obstacles before installation day helps create a smoother process from start to finish.

How Long Does a Granite Countertop Installation Take?

Installation times vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Some smaller projects may only take an hour, while larger projects can take most of the day.

Several factors can affect installation time, including:

• The number of countertops being installed
• Kitchen and bathroom size
• Custom designs or special-order layouts
• Multiple rooms receiving new countertops
• Additional cutouts for sinks, faucets, or accessories

Every project is unique, so installation times can vary from one home to another.

What Happens If the Cabinets Aren’t Level?

Countertops need a level surface for proper installation. If cabinets are not level, installers may use wooden shims and professional leveling tools to make necessary adjustments. Professional template services help identify leveling issues before installation, allowing the team to prepare for the best possible fit.

In some cases, a small gap may appear between the countertop and the cabinet. This gap can often be covered with caulk or cabinet trim. Superior Granite always works to make any gap as unnoticeable as possible, but every installation is different and results may vary depending on cabinet conditions.

How Are Granite Countertops Secured?

Countertops must be properly secured to ensure long-term stability and performance.

Depending on the cabinet type, countertop material, and installation conditions, installers may use:

• High-strength silicone
• Epoxy adhesives
• Other approved securing methods when necessary

These materials help keep the countertop firmly in place and prevent movement after installation.

What Should I Expect on the Day of the Install?

Understanding the installation process helps homeowners know what to expect when installation day arrives.

Before the Installers Arrive

Prior to installation day, a Superior Granite scheduler will contact you with an estimated arrival window. This helps you plan your day and ensures someone is available when the installation crew arrives.

Inspecting the Installation Area

Once the installers arrive, they will inspect the areas receiving new countertops. This allows them to verify measurements, review the project details, and ensure everything is ready for installation.

Carrying the Stone Into Your Home

The installation team carefully carries each countertop piece into the home one piece at a time. Professional handling techniques help protect both the stone and your home during this process.

Positioning the Countertops

Each countertop section is carefully placed on the cabinets and aligned according to the approved layout. The team checks the fit, positioning, and overall appearance before moving forward.

Leveling and Adjustments

After placement, installers verify that the countertops are completely level. If adjustments are needed, they may use shims or make other modifications to achieve the best possible result.

Making Final Cuts

Sometimes a countertop piece may be slightly larger than the installation area. In these situations, the installers can make small adjustments to ensure a proper fit before securing the countertop in place.

Sanding and Polishing Edges

Depending on the project, installers may sand and polish certain edges on-site to complete the final appearance and ensure a professional finish.

Drilling Faucet and Sink Holes

Additional holes may need to be drilled for:

• Sink faucets
• Sink openings
• Soap dispensers
• Other accessories

These cutouts are completed carefully to ensure proper functionality and appearance.

Can I Use My New Counters Right Away?

No, you should not use your new countertops immediately after installation.

Natural Stone Countertops

After installation, natural stone countertops typically need to be sealed. The sealer requires time to absorb into the stone properly.

Homeowners should allow at least 24 hours before using newly sealed countertops.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops do not require sealing. However, if silicone or epoxy is used during installation, homeowners should allow enough time for those materials to fully harden before using the surface.

Following these recommendations helps ensure the best long-term performance of your countertops.

What If I Notice an Issue After the Install Is Complete?

If you notice any issue after installation, contact your sales representative immediately.

Your sales representative can review the concern, coordinate any necessary follow-up service, and help resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Prompt communication helps ensure concerns are addressed efficiently and professionally.

Why Should I Choose Superior Granite to Do the Install?

Expert Craftsmanship

Our experienced installation team focuses on precision, quality workmanship, and attention to detail throughout every project.

20+ Years of Experience

With more than two decades of industry experience, Superior Granite has successfully completed thousands of countertop installations.

Comprehensive Service

From stone selection and templating to fabrication and installation, we provide a complete countertop solution under one roof.

Extensive Selection

We offer a large selection of granite, quartz, quartzite, marble, and other premium countertop materials to suit a variety of styles and project needs.

Conclusion

Preparing your home before countertop installation helps create a smoother and more efficient experience. Simple steps such as clearing countertops, removing drawers, disconnecting appliances when necessary, and creating a clear path for installers can help prevent delays and support a successful installation.

At Superior Granite, our experienced team is committed to delivering expert craftsmanship, professional service, and beautiful results. From preparation through installation, we work carefully to ensure your new countertops provide lasting beauty and performance for years to come.

Ready for your new countertops? Contact a granite countertop installation specialist at Superior Granite today. Our team will help you prepare for installation, explain what to expect, and ensure your project is completed with expert craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Pensacola, FL

Visit Us: 7011 Pine Forest Road, Pensacola, FL 32526
Call Us: (850) 941-0270
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Pace, FL

Visit Us: 4590 Jernigan Road, Pace, Florida 32571
Call Us: (850) 994-1872
Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Visit Us: 35 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548
Call Us: (850) 301-0716
Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m

Get quotes now and start your project!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do before countertop installation day?

Remove all countertop items, pull out the top row of drawers, clear a walkway, shut off water if needed, and disconnect appliances if required.

2. How long does countertop installation take?

Installation times vary depending on project size and complexity. Some projects may take only an hour, while larger projects can take most of the day.

3. What happens if my cabinets are not level?

Installers may use wooden shims and leveling tools to ensure the countertops are installed as level as possible.

4. How are countertops secured during installation?

Installers may use silicone, epoxy, or other approved securing methods depending on the material and cabinet conditions.

5. Can I use my countertops immediately after installation?

No. Natural stone countertops typically need at least 24 hours after sealing. Quartz countertops may require curing time for silicone or epoxy used during installation.

6. What should I do if I notice a problem after installation?

Contact your sales representative immediately so the issue can be reviewed and addressed as quickly as possible.

The post Granite Countertop Installation: How to Prepare for Install appeared first on Superior Granite.

Are you considering upgrading your kitchen or bathroom countertops? If so, quartz countertops might just be the perfect choice for you. Quartz countertops are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of quartz countertops and why they are a fantastic addition to any home.

How Quartz Countertops are Made
Quartz countertops are engineered, or man-made, surfaces that are composed of approximately 90% ground quartz and 10% binders, resins, and pigments. Here is a brief overview of the manufacturing process:

1. Selection of Quartz: High-quality quartz crystals are selected and crushed into small pieces, almost to a sand-like consistency.
2. Mixing: The crushed quartz is mixed with binders, resins, and pigments to create a uniform mixture.
3. Pressing: The mixture is then compacted under high pressure into slabs of the desired size and thickness and cured in a special oven to ensure proper hardening and bonding of the materials.
4. Finishing: The cured slabs are polished to achieve a smooth and glossy surface.

Quartz countertops offer a wide range of design options, exceptional durability, and low maintenance, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking high-quality and stylish surfaces for their kitchens and bathrooms.

Durability and Strength
One of the key advantages of quartz countertops is their exceptional durability and strength. Unlike natural stone countertops like granite or marble, quartz countertops are engineered to be highly resistant to scratches and stains. This makes them perfect for busy kitchens where spills and accidents are bound to happen. Additionally, quartz countertops are non-porous, which means they are resistant to bacteria and mold growth, making them a safe and hygienic choice for food preparation areas. One important aspect of quartz to keep in mind is, because it is a manufactured product containing resins and/or epoxy, you DO want to be careful with heat. It is best to use a hot pad or trivet when putting hot pots and pans on your quartz countertops.

Versatility and Aesthetic Appeal
Another major benefit of quartz countertops is their versatility and aesthetic appeal. Quartz countertops come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, allowing you to choose the perfect style that complements your home’s interior design. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more traditional and timeless design, there is a quartz countertop option to suit your taste. Additionally, quartz countertops can mimic the appearance of natural stone, such as marble or granite, without the maintenance and upkeep associated with those materials. This makes quartz an excellent choice for homeowners who desire the luxurious look of stone countertops without the hassle.

Low Maintenance and Longevity
Quartz countertops are incredibly low maintenance, making them a practical choice for homeowners. Unlike natural stone countertops that require regular sealing, quartz countertops are non-porous and do not require any sealing or special maintenance. They are also highly resistant to staining, so you don’t have to worry about spills or accidents leaving permanent marks. Additionally, quartz countertops are known for their longevity. With proper care, they can last for many years, making them a worthwhile investment for your home.

Quartz countertops offer numerous benefits to homeowners. From their durability and strength to their versatility and aesthetic appeal, quartz countertops are a practical and stylish choice for any kitchen or bathroom. If you are looking to upgrade your countertops, consider the many advantages of quartz and transform your home with this beautiful and durable material. SUPERIOR GRANITE has the largest inventory of ready of quartz AND natural stone on the Panhandle with more material arriving weekly. Visit one of our three convenient locations today and our knowledgeable sales staff will assist you today!

Superior Granite – Three Locations Near YOU

Pensacola: 7011 Pine Forest Rd. Pensacola, FL 32526 (850) 941.0270

Pace/Milton: 4590 Jernigan Rd. Pace, FL 32571 (850) 994-1872

Ft. Walton Beach: 35 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW. Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548 (850) 301.0716

www.superiorgranite.com

The post Quartz Countertops: Just the Facts appeared first on Superior Granite.

One of the most common questions we hear from customers looking for new countertops is simply, “Where do I begin?” The process can seem daunting but the good news is it doesn’t have to be difficult at all. Superior Granite works hard to make your experience as simple and seamless as possible. As professionals in our field it is important to work hand in hand with our customers; we will walk through the process from start to finish so you know what to expect.

In order for us to obtain accurate measurements of your space we will first schedule a template. A skilled technician will come to your home with a digital templating machine to map out the exact measurements of your project (kitchen, bathroom, fireplace, etc.) Creating a template with a digital machine leaves much less margin for error than if measured by hand. The laser template has accuracy second to none and works in conjunction with our other technology to give you a precise finished product.

Once the template is complete our sales staff will calculate the quantity of stone, quartz, or porcelain needed for your project, along with any custom details you would like added, and will create a final proposal for you. Your sales representative will help you select the edge profile and sink that best matches the aesthetic in your home. We go over the installation process, what you will need to do to prepare, and answer any questions you may have. Always feel confident to ask for clarification if you need additional information; Superior Granite employees give excellent customer service and are here to help you navigate this experience.

When you are ready to schedule an installation your sales person will take a 50% deposit, the balance will be due the day your project is completed. You may wait to schedule your installation until after your template is completed so you know exactly how much material will be needed. You can also pay a deposit based on a preliminary estimate calculated using plans or measurements you have provided. Many customers choose this route so they will have less time between their template/measurement and installation.

After your final proposal is signed and released the fabrication process begins. We download each template into our CNC machines and our technicians cut each piece according to the data obtained at your template. Just like a well oiled machine, our shop operates as an assembly line to complete every step of the fabrication process. The material is cleaned, cut, and drilled for any cut outs for your finished installation. The edge profile you selected will be applied along with any finishing touches before we install. Very little fabrication is done at the jobsite to prevent unnecessary dust or mess in your home.

Our scheduler calls the day before your installation to give you an ETA for our crew the following day. If you are replacing existing countertops our crew will remove and load the old material for disposal offsite. They work hard to communicate with customers during the installation process and address any questions you may have. After your new countertops are installed they clean the work area and seal any natural stone used in your project. A typical installation is completed within a few hours, depending on the size of the job.

The pride we feel from our reviews and customer satisfaction is the motivation we use to continue honing our craft and getting better every day. It would be our pleasure to work with you and we look forward to assisting you with your next project!

Superior Granite has three convenient locations and our sales staff is ready to help you find the perfect material for your home. Call or come by and we will make this an experience you’ll feel good about.

www.superiorgranite.com

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Ah, the internet…arguably the most innovative, world changing tool of the last century, the internet has allowed any and every one access to ALL knowledge currently available. Literally everything that can be known can also be learned online. However, making sure the information you seek is based on facts and not opinion can be tricky.

Like any home service business, we at Superior Granite often have the honor of assisting customers who have misconceptions regarding the material that will work best for their project. These misconceptions often stem from online search results leading to companies or websites that have an agenda (i.e., pushing the particular product they sell). Luckily for our customers, Superior Granite stocks almost every natural stone and quartz option available. Our only agenda is to help you make an informed decision based on how you use your space. Selecting products that will work best for YOU is much easier if you have the facts about each option. Our next few blogs will be dedicated to common misconceptions about specific countertop materials.

QUARTZ– A prevalent misconception about quartz countertops is that they are indestructible. While very durable, quartz is a manufactured or man-made product and does have limitations. Quartz slabs are approximately 90% natural stone that has been ground to the consistency of sand; the remaining 10% is a binding agent made up of epoxy and resin. Resin will discolor or scorch when overheated, so you should avoid any high temperatures coming in contact with your quartz countertops. Use a hot pad or trivet when placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface. Keep in mind that burn or scorch marks are not removable with any cleaner or product. Avoid high temperatures to keep your quartz looking beautiful for years to come.

Also, although quartz is non-porous and unlikely to stain, in some instances it can still discolor depending on the quality of the slab and how long the spilled substance was left on the countertop. Use a damp Magic Eraser to remove discoloration caused by spills or markings with felt tip or ink pens.

Another misconception we hear from customers is that bleach and other harsh chemicals can be used to disinfect quartz surfaces. In actuality, because quartz is non-porous, it is highly resistant to bacteria and doesn’t need bleach to sterilize the surface. To the contrary, undiluted bleach, especially on a recurring basis, can leave a cloudy haze on quartz countertops. Hot water and whatever dish detergent you prefer (Dawn, Joy, Palmolive) will get rid of any germs or bacteria left on your quartz countertops. If you absolutely must use bleach, it should be heavily diluted with water and used sparingly and infrequently. Be sure to also rinse with hot water to prevent a haze from occurring.

We will end with a tidbit that was once common but is no more. When quartz countertops first became available, they were easy to spot as a manufactured product. This no longer the case as most quartz manufacturers have, through trial and error (and a great deal of input from potential customers), created slabs that are often indistinguishable from the patterns and nuances in natural stone.

For customers who want highly functional countertops that are easy to maintain without sacrificing design or personal aesthetic, quartz is quite possibly the product for you. Superior Granite has the largest stock of quartz in the region and three convenient showrooms to assist you in making the best choice for your home. Call or come by today and our sales staff will happily answer any questions you have and dispel any remaining misconceptions you have about quartz slabs!

www.superiorgranite.com

The post JUST THE FACTS (Part 1): common misconceptions about quartz appeared first on Superior Granite.

Last week I was walking the slab yard with a lovely couple and perusing our inventory in the hot, Florida sun. It was their first visit to Superior Granite and they had many questions that I was happy to answer. Potential customers typically ask many of the same questions when doing research on which material would work best in their home and why. We strolled through the pavilion and I explained the myriad of natural stone varieties we stock and the price per square foot for each option. While we tried to create an artificial breeze by waving our notebooks, the gentleman asked the most common question I get as a natural stone sales rep: “What makes one option more or less expensive than another?”

It’s certainly easy to understand why, unless you work in the construction industry, you may not know what factors into the pricing of each slab. However, any sales rep worth their salt will explain where the material is quarried and why it is high or low on the price scale. Often it is as simple as supply and demand. Many of the less expensive granite options are commonly used in hotels, banks, and spec homes. Granites like St. Cecilia, Uba Tuba, Gallo Ornamental, or Ivory White are beautiful slabs, but are often priced lower because they have a very consistent pattern and are easy to obtain in bulk. There are many natural stone companies that sell lower grade granite that is mixed with resin or fill and sold at a cheaper price. These types of slabs are going to be far less likely to withstand heat, spills, or scratches. Superior Granite is proud to directly import our inventory from all over the world. The quality of our natural stone is first-rate regardless of the price or color. Always ask your sales rep where the slabs you are inquiring about were quarried and if they are a composite or have resin/fill. There are some instances where it is necessary to use an epoxy to fill fissures in certain slabs, but this should be kept at a minimum and should not affect the durability of the stone.

A word you will likely hear to describe higher priced natural stones is “exotic”. Describing slabs as exotic can mean many things. A slab can be exotic because it is rare and an incredibly durable type of natural stone. Quartzite is very often described in such a manner. Because it is extremely dense and unlikely to stain, scratch, or be damaged by heat, quartzite is a highly sought-after natural stone and is almost always priced on the higher end. Along with the wide range of color, movement, and versatility, quartzite is more expensive because it is harder to quarry. All of these characteristics contribute to a higher price for the material.

Additionally, certain minerals and colors can ensure a higher price tag as well. Labradorite is a stunning mineral found in rare granite that has a crystal-like structure. Cobalt and/or iridescent blue is an unusual find in most natural stone slabs making it the very definition of exotic and high end. Lemurian Blue granite is chock full of labradorite and shades of blue.
At the end of my appointment where the “oh so frequent” question about differences in pricing was asked, a thought occurred to me. When shopping for most items (cars, designer luggage, even most foods) you can typically spot with ease what will be expensive and what is more affordable. Both myself and my colleagues are proud to be sales representatives for Superior Granite and the effort our owners go to by importing the best natural stone from all over the world. Our customers are rarely able to see the differences of affordable or high end. So much so that they often ask, “What makes one option more or less expensive than another?”

The post What Determines The Prices of Natural Stone Slabs? appeared first on Superior Granite.

A DIVERSE INVENTORY AND HOW IT SAVES YOU TIME, MONEY, AND YOUR SANITY!

There are many things in life that bring me joy. The smell of fresh cut grass, the first cool morning of Spring announcing its arrival, and getting containers full of new inventory. Anyone working on a new construction project, remodel, renovation, or even just ordering new appliances will understand that the last two years have doubled (sometimes tripled) the arrival time of materials needed. There are many reasons for these delays but none of them remedy the anxiety of waiting. If you are in need of new countertops or slabs for your home then I have exciting news…YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT!

Superior Granite leads the Gulf Coast/Panhandle in customer service, state of the art technology for templating and fabrication, and highly skilled installers. All of that is reason enough to visit one of our three beautiful showrooms, yet what I personally think sets up far apart from the rest is the largest inventory of every type of natural stone, quartz, and porcelain slabs in our region.

When you have to order the material used for your project you risk waiting weeks to months for it to arrive. The owners at Superior Granite have worked diligently for years to curate an inventory from all over the world so that not only will you not have to wait on your material, but you only purchase the quantity of square feet needed for your project. If you’ve ever had to purchase a significant amount of material that wasn’t necessary for your job you know the damage it does to your wallet. Superior Granite aims to eliminate that burden. Every customer is unique and has different preferred design aesthetics so we bring in a diverse quantity of slabs that cater to everyone. Right now, we are bursting at the seams with new inventory and cannot wait for you to take a look!

Porcelain is our newest venture in countertops. We discussed the benefits of porcelain surfaces in our March 1st blog, and we’ve since added to our inventory on that front as well. Come see for yourself the depth, beauty, and wide range of both design types AND capabilities of these slabs. I know you’ll be impressed.

Superior Granite also has more options in stock of natural stone and quartz than ever before (and at every price point). However, I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that our inventory is only one part of a multi-faceted effort to make your experience as stress free as possible. Our knowledge and customer service is second to none, we implement the latest technology to be as accurate as possible, and our employees are highly trained in their respective fields. Our goal for every job is to leave the customer feeling excited about their experience. Check out our Google reviews to see what our customer have to say!

As always, we look forward to meeting you and helping you with your project. Call or come by one of our three showrooms to get the process started. See you soon!

www.superiorgranite.com

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Close your eyes and imagine: the sunlight is on your face, the smell of a ribeye steak sizzling on the grill in from of you, perhaps your children or friends are splashing and laughing in the pool within earshot. Drink in hand, you’re enjoying every moment of your outdoor kitchen/grill area and making memories that last a lifetime. Sounds pretty amazing, yes? IT IS!

If you’ve ever had a construction project you are well aware of the many options typically available to you. With Spring here and Summer just around the corner, outdoor kitchen and grill areas are being used to enjoy the sunshine and make as many memories as possible. There are pros and cons to almost everything and the materials used outdoors are no exception.

When choosing the appropriate countertop for an outdoor kitchen, durability and resilience is top priority, even before aesthetics. Selecting a beautiful material won’t matter if it doesn’t hold up over time. Superior Granite will help you make an informed, educated choice that works best for YOU.

WHAT ARE THE BEST OPTIONS FOR AN OUTDOOR APPLICATION?
Granite and Quartzite are the densest natural stone options available for a countertop. They are the least porous and can withstand outdoor elements better than their softer stone counterparts. If you have a pavilion or covering over your outdoor kitchen or grill, your countertops will be out of direct sunlight and precipitation making them far less likely to fade from UV rays. It is important that when selecting a natural stone your ask your Superior Granite sales rep about fill or resin, as it can yellow in direct sunlight. Keeping your natural stone countertops sealed properly is essential to their success. The sealer is made to fill in the pores of the stone which will protect against bacteria from food preparation and protect the surface from stains. Softer natural stones, such as Dolomite, may be used at the homeowner’s discretion, but we recommend only in areas that have a covering and having a texture applied to the surface of the slab. While texturing the stone won’t keep it from scratching or possibly staining, it does make it much less noticeable. Porcelain slabs are perfectly suited for outdoor areas as they do not need to be sealed, are heat and stain resistant, and won’t fade in the sun. The glaze in porcelain slabs also give them amazing depth. They look beautiful in any area, outdoors included!

WHAT OPTIONS SHOULD I AVOID?
Quartz is a manufactured material that is not specified for outdoor use. Because resin is used as a binding agent in quartz slabs, it will likely yellow and/or discolor over time. Even in undirect sunlight quartz will almost certainly fade and is not recommended to go outside. Very soft natural stones such as Marble, Travertine, Limestone, and Calcite may look beautiful when first installed. However, they are very porous, making them susceptible to scratches and stains. Liquids absorb quickly into the surface where bacteria and germs can grow. This makes food preparation less hygienic than their denser natural stone counterparts. Even if sealed properly, these natural stones can still absorb smells and liquids and are not recommended in an outdoor application.

Ultimately, Superior Granite makes it our primary goal to help you choose the best material for your project, regardless of the location. Call or stop by one of our three locations and we can get started today. See you very soon!

www.superiorgranite.com

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www.superiorgranite.com

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