How to Lay Stone Countertops

Recruit at least several people to help you. Stone countertops can weigh hundreds of pounds, far too heavy for you to lift alone. Lift the countertop with assistance and lay it carefully face-up on the countertop base.

Adjust the stone countertop so that it is centered on the base and the back edge is aligned with the backsplash. Measure the distance between the edge of the countertop and the base beneath on both sides to ensure that the countertop is properly positioned.

Lift the front edge 1 to 2 inches as someone holds the back edge of the countertop stationary. Slip wooden shims beneath the front and side edges of the countertop so that they rest along the front and side edges of the base. Place the shims 3 to 4 inches apart and keep them parallel.

Squeeze a bead of silicone construction adhesive along the countertop base edges, between the shims. Have several assistants hold the edges of the countertop steady as you remove the shims. As the shims are removed, the countertop should be gently lowered onto the adhesive.

Measure the distance from each side edge of the countertop to the base to confirm that the countertop has not shifted. Inspect the underside of the countertop and remove any adhesive that might have squeezed out, using a damp rag. Lay any remaining sections of the countertop using the same process.

Mix together a two-part epoxy seam filler on an uncolored paper plate, using a clean wooden paint stirrer. Fill any countertop seams with this epoxy, working it into the cracks with the paint stirrer. Quickly wipe away any excess from the countertop with a damp rag. Allow the adhesive and epoxy to dry for 48 hours.