Upgrading your countertops is exciting, but it can also feel intimidating if you are unsure what happens between selecting a slab and seeing it installed in your home. Understanding the countertop installation process helps you plan with confidence, avoid surprises, and enjoy the transformation of your space. Here is a clear step-by-step look at what you can expect, from consultation and templating to fabrication and final installation.
Why Work With Keystone for Your New Countertops?
Before diving into the details, it helps to know who is handling your project. Keystone is a full-service countertop store and fabricator, offering:
- Natural stone countertops: Granite, marble, quartzite, and more, with 250+ colors in stock.
- Engineered stone options: Premium quartz from leading brands like Silestone, Caesarstone, Hanstone, and LG.
- Residential and commercial service: For kitchens, bathrooms, and other surfaces across DE, PA, and OH.
- Free delivery and free installation: On qualifying projects, plus competitive pricing and quick turnaround.
This one-stop approach means your granite countertop installation, quartz project, or mixed-material design stays under one roof, from slab selection to final polish.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Project Planning
Every successful countertop installation starts with a conversation. During your consultation, the Keystone team will:
- Ask about your space, layout, and how you use your kitchen or bath.
- Discuss your style preferences (light vs. dark, subtle vs. dramatic patterns).
- Talk about materials: granite, marble, quartz, or quartzite, including pros and cons for your lifestyle.
You can also bring or share:
- Rough measurements of your existing countertops
- Photos of your current space
- Inspiration images for the look you want
This is the time to ask practical questions (like installation timeline, edge profiles, backsplash options, or sink choices) so you know what to expect.
Step 2: Choosing Your Stone and Signing Your Slab
Next comes the fun part, picking your actual slab.
At Keystone, you will find a massive collection of natural and engineered stone, with 250+ colors available across granite, marble, quartz, and quartzite.
During this stage:
- You walk the slab yard or showroom and see full slabs, not just tiny samples.
- You compare movement, veining, and color tone under real lighting.
- You pick and can even sign the slab reserved for your project.
This step is especially important for granite countertop installation, since each slab is unique. What you see is what will end up in your home.
Step 3: Professional Countertop Templating at Your Home
Once your slab is selected and scheduled, the next step is precise countertop templating.
A technician will visit your home to:
- Measure existing countertops with digital or physical tools.
- Mark sink/cooktop areas, seams, overhangs, and backsplash lines.
- Confirm edge profiles, corners, and cutouts.
Templating ensures your countertops are cut to fit your exact space, even if the walls aren’t perfectly square. This precision allows for fast, clean installation with minimal adjustments.
Step 4: Countertop Fabrication in the Shop
After templating, your project moves into fabrication.
Behind the scenes:
- The slab is aligned to the template on the cutting tables.
- Computer-guided tools cut the stone and create openings.
- Edges are shaped and polished to your chosen style.
- Seams are planned to blend naturally with the pattern.
With skilled fabricators and quality stone, you get a precise, lasting finish.
Step 5: Scheduling and Installation Timeline
One of the most common questions is, “How long does countertop installation take?”
Timelines can vary depending on:
- Size and complexity of your project
- Material choice (some stones need extra handling)
- Number of seams, cut-outs, and custom details
However, with Keystone’s rapid turnaround approach, the time between templating and installation is typically quite short compared to industry averages, thanks to an efficient in-house team and streamlined process. Most standard installations are completed in a single day, while larger projects may take longer.
Step 6: Countertop Installation Day: What to Expect?
On installation day, the crew arrives with countertops pre-cut to your template.
You can expect the team to:
- Protect walkways and work areas
- Remove old countertops (if included)
- Set and secure the new stone
- Join seams for a clean finish
- Install sinks and drill faucet holes as needed
Keystone’s team works efficiently and leaves your space clean when finished.
Step 7: Final Checks, Sealing, and Care Instructions
Once the stone is in place, the installers perform a final walkthrough:
- Check seams, edges, overhangs, and cutouts.
- Wipe down the surface for a clear view.
For many natural stones, especially granite and some quartzite, Keystone also applies a sealer to help protect against stains and extend the life of your countertop.
Before they leave, the team will review:
- The daily care tips
- Products to avoid
- When to reseal
You are not just getting a stone surface; you are getting guidance to keep your countertops beautiful for years.
Your Simple Countertop Installation Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to keep things simple:
Before templating:
- Clear countertops for measurement
- Decide on sink type (undermount, farmhouse, or drop-in) and faucet layout.
- Confirm appliance placement
Before installation day:
- Empty cabinets under sinks/cooktops
- Arrange for plumbing and electrical disconnects if needed.
- Ensure someone is home for approval
After installation:
- Allow surfaces to cure before use
- Follow care instructions
- Register warranties if applicable
Ready to Start Your Countertop Project?
A smooth countertop installation comes down to a clear process and a skilled team. With a wide stone selection, free installation on qualifying projects, and years of experience, Keystone Marble & Granite can take you from idea to final install with ease. If you’re planning an upgrade, contact the team for a free estimate and get your project started.
FAQs
How long does the full countertop installation process usually take?
Timelines vary by project size, material, and complexity. Keystone will provide a clear schedule after reviewing your space, and most standard installs move quickly thanks to in-house fabrication.
Do I need to have my cabinets installed before templating?
Yes. Cabinets must be fully installed, leveled, and secured before countertop templating can happen. Any changes to cabinet layout after templating will require a new template, so it is best to finalize all cabinetry work first.
Can Keystone handle both granite and quartz countertop installation?
Absolutely. Keystone installs granite, marble, quartz, and quartzite, offering many in-stock options and top engineered stone brands to suit your style and needs.
Will Keystone remove my old countertops?
In many projects, old countertop removal is included as part of the installation service. Confirm this during your estimate so you know whether disposal is covered and if there are any special conditions for tile, laminate, or heavy tops.
How can I prepare my home for installation day?
Clear the work area, move small furniture or rugs out of traffic paths, and empty the cabinets under your sink and cooktop. If plumbing or electrical reconnection is not included in your quote, schedule your plumber or electrician to come shortly after the installation is complete.
