7 Questions to Ask Granite Countertop Installers

According to Sunset Magazine, 91% of homeowners who renovate their kitchens upgrade their countertops. If you're thinking about installing granite, choosing the right team is just as important as selecting the stone.

Asking the right questions helps you avoid poor workmanship and unexpected costs. So, let's cover what every homeowner should ask granite countertop installers before hiring, so your project stays on time, on budget, and built to last.

1. What Experience Do You Have with Granite Countertops?

Before you hire anyone, make sure they've spent real time working with granite. Some granite countertop installation companies may offer a wide range of services but only have a little experience with granite.

That's a problem. Granite is heavy and can crack if handled the wrong way. You want a crew that knows how to lift, carry, and cut granite with care. Ask how many years they've worked with granite, not just how long they've been in business.

An installer who's only worked on bathroom vanities or small jobs might not be the best fit for a full kitchen upgrade. Ask if they've handled jobs with island cutouts, under-mount sinks, or tricky angles.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured for This Work?

A license shows that the company follows local rules and has met any training or experience requirements in your area. Always ask to see the license or write down the number and look it up yourself. If they hesitate or brush off the question, that's a red flag.

This type of insurance covers damage that might happen during the job. That could mean cracked cabinets, broken tiles, or other unexpected problems while installing the granite. Without liability coverage, those costs could fall on you.

Granite is heavy, and there's a risk of injury during delivery and installation. Make sure the company provides coverage for its crew. If someone gets hurt and they don't have insurance, you could be held responsible.

3. Can I See Examples of Past Work or Speak to References?

Most granite countertop installers will have a gallery of past work. These might be on their website or saved on a phone or tablet. Ask to see projects that match the layout or size of your space.

If possible, ask if they've done work in your area. The photos can show the quality of the seams, corners, and cuts. If a showroom visit is available, that's even better.

Good companies won't hesitate to connect you with past clients. Try to speak with someone who used them recently. Ask how the process went, how the installers treated the home, and if the project finished on time.

4. What Is Included in the Estimate?

Start by asking what the estimate covers. This might include removing your old countertops, measuring your space, cutting the granite, sealing the surface, and installing the new stone.

You should also ask if the price includes finishing edges and creating cutouts for sinks and appliances. Some companies include cleanup in the price, while others don't. Get everything in writing so there's no confusion later.

Ask what kinds of problems might lead to extra charges. For example, some homes have uneven cabinets or walls that require more prep work.

There might also be fees for adjusting plumbing or leveling surfaces. A good installer will walk through the space before giving a final price. If something changes, ask to be told before extra work starts.

5. Who Handles the Plumbing and Final Hookups?

Some granite countertop installers include plumbing in their services, while others don't. They might leave that part to a plumber or ask you to handle it on your own. Be clear on this from the start.

If you'll need to call someone else, try to plan that before the stone is installed. That way, you're not left without a working kitchen sink for days.

If the installer does offer plumbing services, ask who will be doing the work. A licensed plumber is usually required by law in many places for any plumbing changes.

That includes hooking up drains, faucets, and disposals. If the installer has a licensed plumber on the team, that's a good sign. It means the work is likely to be safe and done right.

6. What Is the Timeline from Template to Installation?

Before anything can be installed, a team has to come to your home and take careful measurements. This is usually done after your cabinets are in place.

Ask when they can come out to do this step. Some companies can get there in a day or two. Others may have a longer wait time, especially during busy seasons.

Once the measurements are done, your slab goes to a workshop for cutting. This can take anywhere from a few days to over a week, depending on their schedule and how many other jobs are ahead of yours.

Ask where the cutting happens and whether they handle it themselves or send it to another shop. That can affect the timeline.

7. How Do You Handle Seams, Sink Cutouts, and Sealing?

Most large kitchens need more than one slab of granite, which means there will be seams. Ask where those seams will go.

A good installer will place them where they're less noticeable, like near a sink or cooktop. You should also ask how the seams will be joined. They should be smooth, tight, and color-matched so they blend in with the stone.

If you're installing an under-mount sink, cooktop, or soap dispenser, the installer will need to cut into the granite. These cuts must be exact, and they should be done without chipping the stone.

Ask how the cuts are made and if they're done in the shop or on-site. It's also worth asking how they make sure the pieces fit with your plumbing and appliances.

Granite Countertop Installers

Choosing the right granite countertop installers can make all the difference in your renovation.

At Stonewood Granite, we focus on crafting high-quality granite, marble, and quartz countertops. With experienced fabricators, modern tools, and a commitment to detail, we deliver precise, professional results. Our friendly team offers free estimates, competitive pricing, and a wide on-site slab selection.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your countertop!