How to Transport Granite Countertops
by Guest on May 12, 2012
Once granite countertops are installed, they are nearly indestructible, but in transit, granite is quite fragile. Most granite shops provide installation services that include transportation. Handy homeowners can save money by installing the counters themselves. With the right equipment and preparation transporting granite can be effortless.
Granite is a rigid, natural stone. When properly supported, it is sturdy and resists cracking. Cabinets provide equal support under the counter, evenly spreading the weight. Without this support, granite is susceptible to cracks. Like glass, granite is transported vertically on its edge. If granite is laid flat, it will likely crack over bumps in the road.
To support the stone, professional installers use A-frames, wooden structures in the shape of the letter “A.” Leaning the granite against the slope of the "A" gives it even support. A-frames are built with 2”x4”s at a 10 degree angle. Horizontal and vertical supports connect the two A-frames and provide a surface for the clamps and straps that hold the granite in place. Placed in the bed of a pickup truck, an A-frame can support enough granite for a large kitchen. However, smaller A-frames can be built to fit in a van, SUV, or trailer. Many granite shops have A-frames and clamps available for a returnable deposit.
Most granite counters have a cutout for the sink. Under-mount sinks, which are the most common, require a polished cutout that is safe for transport. However, other cutouts are vulnerable to cracking. Cook tops, drop-in sinks, and faucet holes may crack on the road. For this reason, your granite shop may advise you to cut these holes at the installation site.
For small bathroom vanity tops, it may be possible to transport granite without an A-frame. The same principles apply: the granite must be vertical on the unpolished edge and must be secured to keep it in place. Rest the bottom edge on a flat, even surface. If possible, put down the back seats. In minivans and SUVs, one of rear seat may be put down while the remaining seats are used for a support surface.
Due to liability concerns, granite shops are often unable to load the granite into your vehicle. Two people can carry most counters, so you should bring a friend to help with loading. Like in the car, the granite should be carried vertically. Lift both ends at the same time to ensure even support. Inspect the granite carefully before loading it into your vehicle. Once the counters leave the shop, they become the liability of the homeowner.
Home installation is a great way for do-it-yourselfers to save money on granite counters. With an A-frame, clamps, and the proper vehicle, homeowners can transport their granite without hassle.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
70605 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
67425 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
62887 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
43088 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
26838 Views
Latest Articles
Homeowner In The UK? Here's Why You MUST Be Clued Up On Rainwater Drainage Systems
In the United Kingdom, there is an average of around 1,200 millimetres of rainfall annually. Keeping rainwater out of your home and away from your...
on Feb 2, 2023
What are the Advantages of a Metal Roof
Metal roofing is durable and beautiful, allowing a home to stand out from others with conventional tiled roofs. A metal coating can last a...
on Feb 1, 2023
How Much Does it Cost to Install Hardwood Floors
There are specific considerations to make before laying hardwood flooring in your house. The first thing you need to know is that the price of...
on Jan 19, 2023
Home Maintenance Jobs You Need to do This Winter
Winter is the perfect time to get some home maintenance jobs completed. Not only are you stuck inside because of bad weather, but this same bad...
on Jan 10, 2023
Design Tips to Level Up Your Kitchen
Kitchens are the heart of the home. Aside from being where we cook and eat, kitchens can be our workspaces, spaces for relaxation, and - in the...
on Jan 9, 2023
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates

Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Homeowner In The UK? Here's Why You MUST Be Clued Up On Rainwater Drainage Systems
on Feb 2, 2023
Plumbing / Basements
In the United Kingdom, there is an average of around 1,200 millimetres of rainfall annually. Keeping rainwater out of your home and away from your...
Real Estate Investment for Future Generations
on Mar 14, 2022
Real Estate / Finance

Purchasing a home is not simply a financial commitment. It is also an excellent way to start accumulating your wealth. Your home is also a...
Can I Sell My House with a Leaky Roof?
on Oct 28, 2021
Real Estate / Finance

The answer to this query is YES. It is possible to sell a house with a leaking roof, but it's always essential to evaluate some factors before...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 260
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 239
- Real Estate / Finance — 194
- Appliance / Repair — 185
- Interior Design / Decor — 183
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 143
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 116
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 115
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 112
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Why Use an Accredited Double Glazing Installer?
Finding any new tradesman or service provider can be a daunting task. Which company to go for? Are they trustworthy? Will they do a good job? Will...
3 Tips for Laying Slate Tiles
If you are looking for a way to upgrade the flooring of your home, slate tiles may be just the thing. Slate is a natural stone that is very...
The Best Information for Commercial Air Conditioning Repairs
One of many essential products any company will require, particularly through the summer months, will be commercial air conditioning. The cause is...
The 4 Way Test: How to Choose the Best Bed Mattress for Your Child
There will come a time when your precious bundle of joy becomes too big to sleep in a crib. This is the right time for you to buy your childs very...
How to Keep a Vegan Restaurant Clean
Aside from keeping their food clean and free from any animal products, vegans also keep their food preparations and stations clean. Hood cleaning...