You're renovating your kitchen. Your new cabinets are installed and you've chosen the countertop of your dreams. So, what's next? It's time to install your new countertops. Best to let the professionals do their thing, but how exactly do they go about installing the countertops?
We've asked the professionals at FLOFORM Countertops to fill in the blanks for us. They've been fabricating and installing countertops here in Winnipeg for over 50 years. If anyone should have their process nailed down, it should be them. So, how does FLOFORM go about installing your countertops?
It's actually a two-step process that requires two visits to your home. The first step is to create a template. What it a template and why do you need it? Simply put, templating is the process of creating an outline of the space where your countertop will be installed. It is a basic visual representation of your countertop including front and back edges, sink holes, insets, etc. There are a few different ways in which a template is created. A lot of professionals use a manual method of templating using Luan strips hot glued together to create a mock countertop. FLOFORM has modernized their process and now uses the faster and more precise method of digital templating.
FLOFORM specifically uses a templating system called The Proliner® Digital Template System. The Proliner® is a state-of-the-art, portable, digital measuring device that streamlines the whole templating process. Accurate on-site measurements are taken that directly connect to the manufacturing equipment. This eliminates the need for handmade drawings. This process records straight lines as well as any contours in the projected countertop. Once the measurements have been taken, they can be manipulated on the display until both you and the templator are completely satisfied.
FLOFORM creates a digital template of a countertop
At a specific templating appointment, a specialist will inspect your cabinets and walls, take measurements, review all the details of your job and answer any final questions you may have before your countertops are produced.
Once finalized, the digital template is used to inform the fabrication of your new countertops. The digital outline of the countertop, edging, sinks, insets and all, and programed into once of FLOFORM's Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. These sophisticated machines take information from the digital template and convert it into numbers. These numbers can be thought of as coordinates on a graph. They control the movement of the cutter. In this way, the digital template informs the cutting and shaping of your countertop material.
Once fabricated, the completed countertop is ready to install in your home. FLOFORM typically sends a team of two installers to your home for the installation. This is done not only to facilitate a smooth installation, but also because the sheet weight of the material often requires two people to carry into the home.
Installation times vary greatly depending on the type of material, layout of the job, levelness of the cabinets, and preparedness for the installation. On average, a general kitchen installation will last three to four hours. Once the countertop material has been dry fitted to ensure it is the right shape and size, it is time to install.
Cleaning off a seam during countertop installation
While FLOFORM does take the utmost care while installing your countertops, there are loud tools required to complete the job. There are dust collection systems but no installation process is 100% dust free. Home owners may want to drape or cover areas to contain the dust to the construction area. We will leave the job-site in "broom swept" condition. Additionally, chemicals are often used in the installation process. Epoxies and other glues can have a strong odor but are not a health concern with an open window.
So, what's your role in this whole process? Have your countertops cleared prior to the installation crews arrival and have all sinks, faucets, soap dispensers, hot/cold water dispensers, cooktops, dishwashers, refrigerators, and any other appliances on site, and out of the way. If appliances and fixtures are existing, have them disconnected and removed to prevent any accidental damages. Because the material is awkward and heavy, ensure a clear path with lots of room is provided and that the workspace is vacant.
Kitchen Island with Galloway from the Cambria Coastal Collection at 137 Roselake.
And then, its over! Your new kitchen countertops are installed All that's left to do is plan your next get-together to show them off!
FLOFORM Countertops is based in Winnipeg, and has 12 branch offices across Western Canada and the Pacific NorthWest USA. Visit their website, FLOFORM.com or call 1-877-FLOFORM to book a free, no-obligation in-home consultation.
