How to Install a Granite Countertop With a Faucet Hole

Measure the top of the cabinet frame with a tape measure and transfer the measurements to sheets of 3/4-inch plywood. Cut the plywood with a circular saw. Dry-fit the plywood over the top of the cabinet frame, ensuring that the edges do not extend past the frame of the cabinets.

Drill pilot holes where the plywood rests on top of the frame with a drill bit smaller in diameter than the wood screws. Make pilot holes along the perimeter of the cabinet every two feet, and at least one over each center framing board. Secure the plywood to the frame with 2-inch wood screws through the pilot holes with a Phillips screwdriver.

Lay the granite countertop onto the plywood with assistance from your helper. Ensure that the countertop is against the wall and square on the cabinet. Trace the outline of your faucet and sink holes onto the plywood, using the holes in the granite countertop as a template. Pull the countertop off the cabinets and place it on a flat surface.

Cut out the holes for the sink and faucet in the plywood with a hole saw and jig saw. Sand the inside edges of the holes with coarse sandpaper to remove splinters. Wipe off the plywood surface with a damp cloth.

Turn the countertop over so the bottom of the countertop is faceing you. Apply a 1/2-inch bead of silicone caulk around the perimeter of the countertop with a caulk gun. The bead should be three inches from the outside edge of the countertop.

Apply a 1/2-inch bead of caulk throughout the center of the countertop in an “S” pattern. Lift the granite countertop with the assistance of your helper and position it on top of the plywood base of the cabinet. Position the countertop into place and press down to ensure good adhesion of the caulk.