How To Trim Off A Half Inch Of A Granite Countertop

Granite countertop installation is not normally a do-it-yourself project. The sections are large and cumbersome. However granite tile countertops are easily installed. With either type of counter surface, however, you are going to have to be able to trim the granite along the edges so that it fits properly. Since granite is an extremely hard material, you need some special equipment for this process.

Step 1

Measure the granite along the end that needs trimming to mark 1/2 inches. Use a straight edge to draw a line at this point.

Step 2

Adjust the saw blade so that it will cut only to a 1/4-inch depth. With the hard surface of granite, the saw can bog down trying to cut through too much at once. It also can overheat the saw or chip the granite. Making several shorter passes is better.

Step 3

Place the granite next to the blade of the saw so that the blade will cut just outside the drawn line. Since the line signifies exactly 1/2 inches, then cutting on the line will take away some of this measurement.

Step 4

Turn on the saw and make the first pass. Move slowly so that you do not cause chipping or cracking. Adjust the blade after the first pass so that it will cut to a 1/2-inch depth. This will allow the next 1/4 inch of stone to trimmed. Repeat until the granite is fully cut.

Step 5

Polish the end of the stone if necessary. If the cut edge is going to be exposed, use a grinder with a polishing pad to smooth the cut surfaces.