How we work · Charlotte, NC
Countertop installation process: every countertop follows the same seven stages, with a date for each one and a payment tied to the work you can see. Here is exactly what happens, who does what, and what to prepare.
The countertop installation process at Cornerstone Countertops & Cabinetry runs in seven stages: quote, slab selection, template, deposit, fabrication, installation and final payment. We send your written quote within 2 business days, then install 7 business days after the template visit. You pay 50% to start and 50% at completion, and we tell you in advance the two dates your plumber needs to be there.
Seven stages
Each stage has a clear start and finish, so you always know what comes next and when.
Send sizes or photos online or by phone. You get a written quote with every line listed.
Visit our yard at 7517 Orr Rd, no appointment, and choose the exact slab for your project.
We measure your cabinets on site with traditional templates and confirm seams, overhangs and the sink.
The 50% down payment confirms the job before we cut your slab.
Your slab is cut on our automated CNC with water, and the edges and sink openings are polished. Natural stone such as granite needs a periodic sealant after installation; see how to seal granite countertops.
Our crew removes the old top if it is on your estimate, sets the new countertop and the kitchen sink.
We check every seam and edge with you. The final 50% is due when the work is complete.
Who does what
Most delays come from a step nobody owned. This table shows every responsibility, including the plumbing we don't do.
| Stage | You | Your plumber | Cornerstone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quote | Send sizes or photos | Not needed | Written quote within 2 business days |
| Slab selection | Visit the yard and approve the slab | Not needed | Show slabs, finishes and edges |
| Template | Cabinets final; sink and faucet on site | Not needed | Measure, plan seams and overhangs |
| Before tear-out | Empty the counters and sink base | Disconnect sink, faucet, disposal, dishwasher | Give you the date in advance |
| Installation | Clear path from door to kitchen | Not on site | Remove old top if quoted; install stone and sink |
| After installation | Walkthrough and final payment | Reconnect water lines and appliances | Walkthrough and care instructions |
Ten minutes of prep the evening before saves an hour on installation day.
Counters, the sink base and the cabinets right under the old top.
Slabs are heavy and long. Make room from the door to the kitchen.
Doors stay open while we carry stone. Keep pets in a closed room.
Make sure the disconnect happened and the reconnect is booked.
You know the price before template day: countertops start at $29.95 per sq ft installed, paid 50% to start and 50% at completion, never in full upfront.
Start My Free Estimate
Behind the process
The same family-owned company handles every stage, from the quote to the walkthrough, with no subcontracted fabrication. Every job carries our 1-year warranty on fabrication and installation, and we are fully insured for every service we provide.
Learn more about Cornerstone, read what homeowners say about working with us, or find quick answers in our FAQ.
FAQ
Short answers about timing, payments and installation day.
We install within 7 business days of template, and as fast as 3 business days when the schedule and stone allow.
We measure your cabinets on site, confirm the sink and faucet, and plan seams and overhangs with you.
50% after template to confirm the job, and the remaining 50% when installation is complete.
It isn't required, but we recommend it. Being home lets you check the seams, edges and sink placement with the crew before they leave.
Your plumber can reconnect the sink 24 hours after the installation time. Once the plumbing is reconnected, the sink and counters are ready to use.
No. Your plumber disconnects before tear-out and reconnects after installation. We give you both dates in advance.
Free estimate
The first stage takes two minutes: tell us about your project and get a free estimate. Your quote is ready within 2 business days.
