Nothing equals the natural beauty of granite in the kitchen, and with modern products, a diy granite countertop is a very real possibility. Doing it yourself can save a great deal of money, making it possible to have a high quality, expensive counter for a reasonable cost. The main element of a diy granite countertop is the granite slab itself. These can be purchased in a variety of natural stone colors and in a three quarter inch thickness.

Costs for diy granite countertop slabs start at around $20 per square foot, and can be several times this amount for the more colorful or decorative choices in stone. The lip on the outer edge of the countertop slab is rounded off into a finished edge called a bull nose.

Cutting Granite

DIY granite countertop material can actually be cut with a standard circular saw when installing. There are also a variety of other cutting tools that can be purchased, and a grinder will be necessary for cutting the corners of the hole made for dropping in the sink.

Long lengths of counter generally have to use two or more lengths of granite counter top material butted against each other and held with adhesive. The adhesive is sanded off, leaving an inconspicuous but visible seam.

Natural granite for diy granite countertop installation is available in a wide range of natural stone colors. Of course, they all have the granite pattern, but some have color, such as green, rose, or gold streaks through the stone. There are some strikingly beautiful choices of granite in earthy shades of brown, as well. The least expensive choices are generally simpler and in colors such as silvery gray and mottled beige.

When installing a diy granite countertop, it is recommended that you add a layer of three fourths inch plywood to the top of the cabinets to support the stone. For topping an island or bar, you can get the stone preshaped into a rounded countertop suitable for the application. This special shape is quite a bit more expensive, however, than simple rectangular slabs. Typical pricing for a 26 by 99 inch rectangle of plain granite slab for counters starts at around $375 and goes up.