The process of having new granite, or other natural stone, kitchen countertop installed is much more complex and involved than most home owners realize. Years ago all measurements were taken with the tried and true tape measure, but despite accurate measurements it was not uncommon for there to be some nudging and adjustments when fitting the fabricated stone. In older homes most of the stone work needed to be performed on-site. There are quite a few varying methods used now to achieve precise measurements and the perfect desired natural stone countertop.
Today some fabricators still rely on physical templates created from the cabinet placement by laying a long sheet over the top of the floor cabinets. Marking and measuring for the ends of the cabinetry and sink placement are then notated on the sheet material. Once all shapes and edges are marked out the sheet is then taken to the fabrication shop. Here the template is used to create a granite slab matching the shape and cut-outs on the template sheet.
One alternative to the sheet template method, which also happens to be the most recent advancement in the fabrication of countertops, is laser templating and measuring. An over-simplified explanation of the process of using laser templates is through the use of a stationary computer and some handheld computer, often resembling a pen. This small mobile pen is moved to several different points through the kitchen. At each point the coordinates are transmitted via some form of wireless networking with the stationary terminal and recorded. From each coordinate entered, a picture template can be instantly generated using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software.
Another additional method for acquiring precise measurements is the use of digital photo templating. This process uses a camera to take pictures of a layout which is then processed by computer to create a master template for the desired countertop. Again specialized CAD software is used in this process.
Through the use of computers, what could often take hours to create a template, can now be done in less than 15 minutes in some cases. While the field work may take a few moments, the actual cutting of the stone slab is still a time consuming task. Large digitizing machines and tables measuring 6 feet by 12 feet allow fabricators to perfectly create the precise shape from the template. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) cutters, water jets and automatic saws can be controlled by computer which increases precision and speed, while at the same time minimizing wasted material and errors.
Many websites provide additional information on the topic of granite and other natural stone countertops and vanities. One such site worth visiting is http://www.northstargranitetops.com.
Dan Elliott independently authors articles for WebDrafter.com, Inc. (http://www.webdrafter.com) for search engine marketing. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those solely of the author, and not of any other person, company, or organization. No guarantee or warranty, express or implied, is made regarding the accuracy, fitness, or use of the content herein.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_P_Elliott
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment