Now that you’ve found the PERFECT slab, you might be wondering what the next steps are. These are my top countertop selection tips.
In a previous post, I shared What to Expect When Visiting a Slab Yard. This is part two of that post. Be sure to read part one.
Choose an Expert Fabricator
This is the most important step because successful countertop installations begin with a skilled fabricator. An experienced fabricator’s goal is for the seams to be as invisible as possible allowing the stone’s features to take center stage – especially if the stone has prominent veining.
Something to keep in mind when selecting your stone – excessive movement in slabs can make seamless seams challenging, requiring extra material or acceptance of some visible seams.
Plan Your Layout
An experienced fabricator handles this step with ease but I always like to visit the slab yard to confirm the layout. This doesn’t need to be done if the slab you selected has minimal movement. I always say “Mother Nature does what Mother Nature does” meaning each slab will be unique and you may find some unexpected features so the layout is especially important in these instances – it’s almost an art form.
On a few occasions, clients’ contractors had to call the installers back due to poor placement and unacceptable seams. This can easily be avoided by using experienced installers and confirming the optimal layout in advance.
Select Your Edge Detail
Details make a big difference! In my Ultimate Kitchen Planner, I have illustrations for all of the slab profiles because that’s a CRUCIAL element in the design. Some edges lend themselves to a particular design. I use an eased edge for a simple, clean look and an ogee for a more traditional design. Because we specialize in designing mountain homes, I’ve even specified a natural, chiseled edge that provides a unique and rustic aesthetic. This option is more costly but when I specify it, it plays a very important part of the overall design.
Don’t hesitate to visit your local stone yard, even if you are not actively shopping for new counters. An early visit turns the experience into a pleasant field trip, ensuring you’re well-prepared and sometimes surprising yourself by finding the perfect stone for your project.
Have a well-designed day,
Ready to transform your kitchen into a dream space? Step the endless Googleing and visiting showrooms only to feel overwhelmed and confused. The Ultimate Kitchen Planning Guide is an essential tool for effortlessly designing a kitchen. This step-by-step guide will take you from the initial design concept through implementation.
It includes insider tips and beautifully illustrated drawings to help you easily understand concepts. You’ll wonder how people are able to design a kitchen without it!
