Remodeling Doesn't Have To Be Hard

Granite countertops are not only beautiful, but also a smart investment, as they are tough, durable and can last a lifetime. Granite countertops can withstand temperatures up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit and are basically unbreakable unless you smash them with a hammer or drill through them with diamond core drills. Drilling perfect holes through the countertop in order to install faucets or sinks can be a difficult job. Here are 3 tips that will make it a lot easier.

Use a Cutting Template

Once you start drilling, you want to make sure that you're not going to make a mistake and drill too much or too little by making a cutting template. This is particularly important if you will be using the drill to cut out an irregular shape.

Measure out the precise measurements of the sink or faucet you will be installing onto a scrap piece of stone, tile, hardwood or even stone composite. Drill out the shape you need into the cutting template and center the template over the granite countertop. Use a clamp to keep the template in place before you begin drilling. The template will ensure that you stay within the lines.

Clamp a Piece of Scrap Stone Underneath

When drilling a hole into granite countertops, you should pay just as much attention to the underside of the countertops as to the top surface. If you are not careful, the diamond drill may chip away the underside of the countertops as the drill passes through.

To prevent this from happening, clamp another scrap piece of stone or tile underneath the stone countertops. The scrap piece of stone will protect the structural integrity of the granite countertops and prevent excessive chipping. You should also go slow when drilling through to the other side.

Let the Drill Cool

As granite is relatively hard, you need to be careful when drilling. If you go too fast or if the drill gets too hot, the top of the drill can and will snap. To prevent diamond drills from burning up, you'll have to go slow. In addition, let the drill cool for a bit after each hole.

You can cool the drill by dipping it into cool water and using the water as a lubricant. The lubricant will not only cool the drill to prevent it from snapping, but will also prevent the surface of the granite countertops from being fractured by the heat generated.

Conclusion

Once you have installed the faucets and sinks into the right place, you'll want to apply a sealant to the granite countertops. While drilling into granite countertops is not rocket science, consider hiring a company like Artisan Granite & Marble to tackle more complex jobs and designs for flawless results.