DIY Network

Entertainment Bar: Granite Countertops From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-310

To finish the project, host Fuad Reveiz adds the granite countertops -- with the help of a few friends.

This project mixes many different elements (cabinetry, pre-cast stone, countertop installation) and requires carpentry, electrical and masonry skills. Because of this, this project rates 4 out of 5 on the Weekend Remodeling difficulty scale.

advertisement

	Before the Remodel: a basic basement with room for improvement.
	After: From boring basement to family room with a dash of panache.

Materials:

2 x 4s
2 electrical boxes and outlets
Non-metallic building electrical wire
Drywall and drywall "mud"
1/2" cement board
Wire mesh
Mortar
Pre-cast stone
Cabinets
Under counter refrigerator
Various trim pieces
Nails and screws
Painting supplies
2 granite countertops
Steel mounting plates
Hammer
Circular saw
Drill and bits
Pliers
Trim nailer
Tape measure
Electrical tester
Wire strippers and wire nuts
Utility knife
Trowel
Cardboard
Grinder
Level
Shims
Clamps
Caulk gun and caulk
Silicon adhesive
Bucket
T-square
Chalk line
Work gloves (for working with metal lathe)

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Note: This project was designed with the assistance of a computer design program. The instructions for your particular project may vary.

1. To support the upper countertop, install six 3" x 12" steel plates along the top of the wall.

2. Use a circular saw to cut several grooves into the top of the 2 x 4 wall, then chisel out the thin ridges so the plates will sit flush to the top.

3. Ensure that the plates are installed over the stud locations to create even more support (figure A). Set in the first of two pieces that will create the lower countertop. For safety's sake: get a helping hand to carefully lift and position heavy granite.

4. Carefully set the other half in place (figure B), then slide up and over beside the first piece, making sure seams are even.

5. Use 1/16" plastic shim to level the two tops. Fill the gap with silicone latex caulk (figure C).

6. To set the granite backsplash, apply caulk to the back surface and press onto the drywall.

7. Next, use longer screws to raise the electrical outlets flush with the new backsplash. Turn power back on when finished.

8. To make sure upper countertop sits evenly, place plastic shims across the top of the wall (figure D), using silicon caulk to prevent sliding.

9. For areas with larger gaps, use pieces of 1/4" luan as spacers. Apply a generous amount of caulk along the top of the wall, then set first piece of countertop into position.

10. Shim and caulk the rest of the wall before setting other section of granite in place (figure E). Caulk the seam where the two pieces meet.

11. Slide the refrigerator under the counter.