Granite countertops have become the gold standard in kitchens for their durability, elegance, and long-lasting value.
Granite countertops have become the gold standard in kitchens for their durability, elegance, and long-lasting value. If you’re planning a remodel or building a new kitchen, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “How long does it take to install granite countertops?”
The answer depends on several factors including kitchen size, countertop design, edge finishes, cutouts, and preparation. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how long each stage of granite countertop installation takes, how to prepare, and what to expect from start to finish.
🧱 Step-by-Step Breakdown of Granite Countertop Installation Timeline
The entire process of installing a granite countertop — from planning and templating to polishing and sealing — typically takes 7 to 14 business days, while the actual installation can usually be completed within 4 to 8 hours.
Let’s walk through each stage in detail:
Step 1: In-Home Measurement and Estimate (1–2 Days)
The first step is measuring your kitchen countertop area. A technician or fabricator will visit your home to take precise measurements and determine the layout for your granite slab.
➡️ Related: What Is a Granite Countertop?
Step 2: Selecting the Granite Slab (1–3 Days)
Once measurements are taken, you’ll choose a granite slab based on your preferred granite countertop colors, veining, and texture. This is often the most exciting part of the project!
⏱ Time Tip: More exotic colors may take longer to source.
Step 3: Templating the Countertop (1 Day)
Templating is a critical process. It ensures that cutouts for sinks, cooktops, and faucets are accurately accounted for. A digital or physical template is made to guide the cutting process.
Step 4: Fabrication of the Granite Slab (3–5 Days)
The slab is then taken to a fabrication facility where it’s cut, edged, and polished based on your selected granite countertop design. Sink cutouts, faucet holes, and edge styles are added during this step.
Step 5: Countertop Installation (4–8 Hours)
Finally, it’s installation day! This is typically a one-day job unless your project includes multiple rooms or custom work.
The process includes:
- Removing the old kitchen countertop
- Fitting and leveling the granite
- Applying adhesive and epoxy
- Seaming if necessary
- Cleaning and final sealing
📌 Related: Is It Hard to Install Granite Countertop?
⌛ What Can Affect the Installation Time?
Several factors may speed up or delay the process:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Number of countertop pieces | More seams = more time |
| Custom edge profiles | Adds fabrication hours |
| Unlevel cabinets | Requires additional shimming |
| Plumbing and electrical delays | Can halt installation |
| Exotic stone types | Harder materials take longer to cut |
🧼 Post-Installation: Cleaning and Maintenance
Once installed, granite needs to be sealed and polished to protect against stains. Daily cleaning with pH-neutral stone cleaners is essential to preserve its shine.
📖 Related reading:
💸 Granite Countertop Prices: Are They Worth the Wait?
While you’re considering the timeline, it’s also worth understanding the cost. Granite countertop prices range from $50 to $200 per square foot, including materials and labor. Costs depend on:
- Stone rarity
- Slab thickness
- Edge profiles
- Total square footage
Many homeowners feel the investment is worthwhile thanks to the beauty, resale value, and low granite countertop maintenance costs.
🔧 Who Installs Granite Countertops?
Professional countertop fabricators or stone installers are the ideal choice. Their expertise ensures accurate measurements, safe handling of heavy slabs, and proper sealing.
📎 Learn more: Who Installs Granite Countertops?
🧽 How to Polish Granite Countertops After Installation
While installation crews will polish the countertop upon completion, maintaining that showroom shine is your responsibility going forward. Here’s a quick DIY routine:
Daily:
- Wipe with warm water and mild soap
- Use a microfiber cloth for drying
Weekly:
- Apply granite-safe cleaner
- Buff with a soft towel
Monthly:
- Inspect for water marks or residue
- Re-polish if needed
Annually:
- Reseal the granite to maintain its protective barrier
🪨 Related: What Is a Marble Slab?
🏁 Final Verdict: Granite Installation Timeline Summary
Here’s a quick overview of the average timeline:
| Phase | Time |
|---|---|
| Quote & Planning | 1–2 Days |
| Slab Selection | 1–3 Days |
| Templating | 1 Day |
| Fabrication | 3–5 Days |
| Installation | 1 Day |
| Total Time | ~7–14 Days |
Though the process takes some planning, the result is a beautiful, long-lasting surface that enhances the aesthetic and function of your kitchen.
Still exploring options or preparing for your project?
Check out these helpful resources: