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Countertop Template: What Happens Before Installation?

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Written by Angela Warren on October 28, 2019
Edited By Amanda Kaiser, Last Updated On January 01, 2024
Reviewed By Samantha Peterson
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New countertops are a significant addition to any home. Installing these new countertops can drastically transform the appearance and functionality of your home for the better. But before your countertops can be installed, you must first go through the process of templating. This guide will provide you with knowledge of the templating process for stone countertops, including why it is done and how it is done. 

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What is Templating? 

Templating is the process of developing a countertop template that will allow the fabricator to know the exact measurements of your new countertop. Without a template, the fabricator would not have an accurate idea of the exact shape and measurements the countertop requires. 

What Do You Need to Do Before the Template is Made? 

Before there can be any template made, there are a few things you will need to do. You must make sure that all cabinets are installed and that all appliances are on-site. Without these two factors in place, you will not be able to make an accurate template. After you have completed these two steps, you can schedule templating. 

How is Templating Done? 

Once you have completed the prerequisites for templating and scheduled your appointment, a skilled technician will arrive to take the measurements. To measure, a high-intensity laser is pointed at the surface. This laser sends information to a computer, which records various points to create accurate dimensions. The technician will add in additional pertinent details, such as any overhangs, backsplashes, specialty cuts, cutouts for sinks and faucets or seams that need to be factored into the project. After this, the measurements are double-checked to make sure they are completely accurate. If the measurements are even a fraction of an inch off, it can drastically impact the project. Once the measurements are verified and saved, the computerized system sends them wirelessly to the fabrication facility. At the facility, the template is laid out on the stone’s surface. Following this, the stone can be cut using fabrication machinery. 

How Are Countertop Templates Created? Step-by-Step
Step 1 A skilled technician arrives to take the measurements.
Step 2 A high-intensity laser is pointed at the surface. This laser takes specific measurements for the size of the countertop.
Step 3 The measurements taken by the laser are sent to a computerized system that records various points. This system is creating accurate dimensions.
Step 4 The technician will add in any specific details that are relevant to the project. Specific details include any overhangs, backsplashes, specialty cuts, cutouts for sinks and faucets, and seams that will factor into the project.
Step 5 After the measurements are recorded and the additional factors are noted, the technician will measure the surface again to ensure accuracy.
Step 6 Once the final information is saved in the system, it is sent wirelessly to the fabrication facility.
Step 7 Upon receiving the information, the fabricator will lay out the template on the surface of the stone.
Step 8 Lastly, the stone can be cut to the specific measurements your countertop requires.

Can You Make a Template on Your Own? 

For the installation of stone countertops, whether natural stone or engineered stone, you must have a professional complete the templating process. Having a professional templator do the job will ensure accuracy for a task that requires it. As mentioned above, if the measurements for your new countertop are even a fraction of an inch incorrect, it can mess up the entire project. 

What Happens After the Templating Process? 

After the templating process, and once you have confirmed the part of the stone you would like to use, the slab will be cut to the specific shape and measurements of your new countertop. After this, it will be delivered and installed in your home. 

Can You Install Your Own Countertops? 

While installing laminate countertops, solid surface countertops, wood countertops and various others can be a DIY job, you will not be able to install stone countertops on your own. Both natural and engineered stone countertops are extremely heavy and should only be handled by skilled professionals. 

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Incorporating stone countertops into your home can drastically improve both the visual appeal and functionality of your space. In addition, stone countertops can add to the overall value of your home. The information above will provide you with an idea of what you will need to prepare before the templating process, how the templating process is completed and how your specific stone is prepared prior to installation.

Why you can trust Marble.com
When it comes time to get the job done, our fabrication and installation teams have the equipment and expertise it takes to get your project cut and delivered the right way, every time. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible.
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