Installation Guide

Prepare for Your
New Countertops

Everything you need to know from template to install day

Installation Checklist

Tap items to check them off as you go

Ready for install?
0% complete
Template Appointment
All fixtures you purchased are onsite
Sinks, cooktops, faucets, air gaps, soap dispensers, and filtered water fixtures not supplied by ApexWest must be onsite at template time
Cabinets are fully installed, level, and secure
For new cabinet installations -- verify all cabinets are fully installed, level, and secured before your template appointment
Someone available to approve layout and seam placements
All pets contained away from the work area
We use an extremely precise -- and sensitive -- laser templating system. Pets in the area can interfere with accuracy.
Pre-Installation
Remove all items from your countertops
Completely empty lower cabinets under sinks and cooktops
Clears the way for disconnections and reconnections during demo and installation
Cover any nearby furniture or electronics you're particularly concerned about
Plumbing disconnected prior to demo team arrival
Skip if ApexWest is handling plumbing disconnection
Other trades (electrical, appliances) held until after install
Installation Day
All fixtures and appliances confirmed onsite
Arrangements made for small children during demo
Demo day is loud for an extended period -- we recommend making arrangements so young children aren't exposed to the noise. Pets should also be secured away from the work area.
Clear, easy access provided to the installation area
Someone available for questions or last-minute decisions

✓ All done! You're fully prepared for your installation.

Questions for Your Coordinator

Add any questions or notes you'd like us to know before your appointment.

01

The Template Appointment

Our team takes precise measurements and confirms all technical details for your new countertops. Most appointments take under an hour, though larger homes can take up to three.

What to Expect

  • We map out your full countertop layout including cutouts for sinks, cooktops, faucet holes, and accessories like air gaps, soap dispensers, and filtered water fixtures.
  • We confirm overhangs, edge profiles, and seam placements with you on the spot.
  • We use an extremely precise laser templating system -- it is also very sensitive, so all pets must be contained away from the work area during the template appointment.

How to Prepare

  • Good news — minimal disruption. Most items can stay right where they are. Your kitchen can remain fully set up and in use. If anything specific needs to be moved, we will have already communicated that to you prior to the appointment.
  • Have all fixtures you purchased onsite. Sinks, cooktops, faucets, and accessories not supplied by ApexWest must be present so we can confirm cutout dimensions.
  • Verify that all cabinets are fully installed, level, and secured.
  • Be available to review and approve layout details during the appointment.
02

Pre-Installation Prep

A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth, fast installation.

Clear the Workspace

  • Remove all items from your countertops and cabinets.
  • Empty lower cabinets near plumbing or appliances to protect your belongings from vibration during demo.

Plan for Construction

  • We use plastic sheeting to contain the area and minimize dust, and floor coverings to protect your space.
  • Feel free to cover nearby furniture or electronics you're particularly concerned about.
  • Expect some construction noise -- most demos are completed in a single day.
  • If you need to access the refrigerator or other items we've covered during construction, just ask -- we're happy to help. Note that certain items like the sink or stove may not be accessible during active work.

Plumbing

  • If we are not performing plumbing work, all plumbing — sinks, faucets, dishwashers — must be disconnected before our demo team arrives.
Need help? We offer most related services so you don't have to coordinate multiple contractors — including plumbing disconnection & reconnection, tile backsplash installation, raised bar modification, and electrical work. Ask your project coordinator when scheduling.

Coordinate Other Trades

  • Hold off on plumbing, electrical, and appliance installations until after countertops are in place to avoid scheduling conflicts.
03

Installation Day

This is the exciting part — here's what to expect when our team arrives.

What Happens

  • Old countertops are removed if applicable.
  • Your new countertops are securely installed. All fabrication is done in our shop -- not your driveway -- though minor fitment adjustments and trimming may take place onsite.
  • If you're having tile work done, that typically happens on day 2 of installation. Most tile backsplashes are completed in a single day.

Day-Of Tips

  • Confirm all sinks, faucets, cooktops, and accessories are onsite.
  • Keep pets and children clear of the work area for safety.
  • Provide easy access to the installation space.
  • Be available for any last-minute questions — we may need your input on a detail or two.