Stone worktop questions, answered

Your postcode, approximate lengths and depths, kitchen shape and preferred material are enough to start. Mention an island, wall panels, sink and hob openings, and whether the cabinets are new or staying. A written description is fine; final fabrication measurements come later.

Often this is possible, subject to the condition and suitability of the existing units. Check that cabinets are sound, level and able to support the chosen surface. Removal may disturb tiles, plaster or splashbacks, so agree making-good work before ordering.

An estimate uses your preliminary dimensions and specification. Templating records the fitted kitchen for fabrication, including wall shapes, openings and joint positions. Do not order finished stone from a rough customer sketch alone.

Agree a readiness checklist before the visit. Base units normally need to be fixed in their final, level positions, with layout changes resolved. The exact sink, hob and tap details must be available. Confirm which appliances and fittings need to be on site.

Tell us immediately if a model changes. Cut-outs depend on the actual product, and a different model may need revised measurements or fabrication. Do not assume that two appliances sold as the same nominal size use the same opening.

An undermount sink can be specified where the selected surface, sink and cabinet arrangement are suitable. Confirm the support, exposed edge finish, tap position and any drainer grooves. Include the sink model in the quotation brief.

Do not assume so. The written quotation should identify who disconnects and reconnects the sink, taps and appliances, and whether those costs are included. Arrange appropriately qualified trades where required and coordinate their visits with installation.

Provide the exact hob model and its installation instructions. Clearances, ventilation and the relationship with upstands or wall panels must be checked for that appliance. Gas work must be arranged with a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.

That depends on the kitchen shape, usable slab size, cut-outs, handling and access. A joint can be necessary even when a piece would fit within a slab. Agree its position and the expected appearance before fabrication; do not assume it will be invisible.

Possibly, if the chosen slab, design, supports and delivery route allow it. Record the island dimensions and the narrowest points on the route into the kitchen. The handling plan needs to be settled before promising a single piece.

There is no single safe allowance for every stone and thickness. The surface specification, cut-outs, cabinet arrangement and intended seating determine what support is needed. Ask for the support design to be confirmed before the slab is made.

Agree how the worktop meets the vertical panel, the joint or mitre detail, vein direction and the finished floor level. Check nearby doors, sockets and seating. Matching a pattern across an edge takes planning and should be part of the specification.

The delivery route must be assessed for the actual pieces. Tell us the floor level, stair widths and turns, lift size and any shared-access rules. Building-management permissions, restricted hours or specialist handling should be agreed before booking.

Describe the distance from a lawful unloading point to the entrance, any steps and parking restrictions. Check whether you need to arrange access or a permit. Do not rely on a postcode alone to explain the handling route.

Describe the proposed work and any restrictions before the specification is agreed. If alterations could affect protected fabric, check the requirements with the local planning authority. Keep this separate from the question of whether a worktop can physically be installed.

Have both tasks included explicitly in the scope, or arrange them separately. Confirm the disconnection sequence, protection of cabinets and floors, waste removal and responsibility for any making good. A price for the new stone alone may not cover these jobs.

Dates depend on product availability, the final specification, kitchen readiness and the installation schedule. Ask for the current estimate-to-template and template-to-fit timings in writing. Coordinate plumbing and appliance connections around the confirmed dates.

Ask for care instructions for the actual stone and finish. Sealing requirements vary; a seal is not a promise against every stain or mark. Keep a record of the recommended product and maintenance schedule rather than using a generic resealing interval.

Use the selected surface manufacturer’s care guidance before choosing a descaler. Products suitable for one material can damage another, especially acid-sensitive natural stone. Wiping splashes and drying the area helps limit deposits; avoid experimenting with harsh chemicals.

No. The exact product composition and the work being carried out both matter. Cutting, drilling or polishing stone needs professional assessment and controls. Our low-silica guide explains the terminology and the questions to ask before fabrication.

Keep the quotation, final specification, product and colour details, invoice, care instructions and any written warranty. Check what is covered, who provides it and how to report a problem. Record any agreed aftercare or outstanding work at handover.