Granite Countertop Seams

When I was looking to get granite countertops, granite gurus told me to expect countertop seams. It seemed all new to me. So, I was curious to find out how it affected my countertop design.

I researched and found some interesting things. Are you also looking to understand granite countertop seams? In this post, I’ll discuss what you need to know.

What Is a Seam?

The first thing you’ll want to know is what a seam is all about. Well, if you’ve ever come across a high-end granite countertop, then you’ve most likely seen one. You didn’t just know it’s called a seam.

So, a seam is that gap that exists between two granite pieces that make up your countertop. Usually, it looks like a line and shows where they joined one piece of granite to another. It runs through the counter. 

So, you see, you knew what a granite countertop seam was all along.

Does Granite Countertop Need to Have a Seam?

Next up, you’re wondering if there’s the need for a seam. Well, the reality is that granite countertop seam is inevitable in most cases. This is thanks to the size of the slabs that make up the countertop.

Typically, granite slabs get manufactured in small sizes. Usually, the fabricator provides them as 9 feet long. As you can see, with a big space, it will be impossible to fill in the area with one slab. You’ll need to join multiple slabs together. In turn, this is what creates those seams.

However, this means that in some cases, it might just be possible to avoid seams. This involves cases where the area is small, and a slab will be sufficient to get the job done. However, this is quite rare. 

Even more, seams are important in some cases to protect the structural integrity of your countertop. This is in cases where sink cutouts are necessary. In this case, you’ll need seams to ensure that each piece’s weight distribution remains balanced.

This way, you don’t have the stone breaking apart.

Beyond this, the pattern and shape of your countertop sometimes make seams unavoidable. So, know that you’ll hardly find a granite countertop project without seams and this isn’t because of a poor fabricator.

How to Create an Invisible Granite Countertop Seam

Now that you know seams are mostly inevitable, your next concern is getting a great design irrespective of the seam. Typically, this will involve creating an invisible granite countertop seam.

So, how do you get this done?

One thing that you’ll need is attention to details. You’ll also need to be committed to creating an invisible seam. Once you have this, here are some tips you can use to get an invisible granite countertop seam.

Know that you’ll need to combine them to get the best results.

Choose Your Resin Color with Attention to Your Granite

When it comes to seams, you’ll need polyester resins to join both pieces together. This is important because it will help keep both pieces intact and stop them from separating. However, beyond this, it’s also vital to getting an invisible seam.

As such, you’ll want to ensure that the color of your resins matches that of your granite. This will make the seams harder to locate as they’ll blend easily with the slabs of granite.

Still, in cases where you can’t get a perfect match, look towards getting something similar. 

Pay Attention to the Granite’s Color 

You already know you’ll need to pay attention to the color of the resin. However, beyond that, you’ll also need to pay attention to the pattern and color of granite.

If you’re interested in having an invisible seam, you’ll need to ensure that the granites you place beside each other are the same color and design. 

This combination is vital to ensure that everything looks similar. This then ensures that the seam is better concealed, and you’ve got yourself a better-looking countertop. For instance, darker granite hide seams better.

Use Seams in Strategic Locations

Another thing that you want to do is place the seams in strategic locations. This will involve counter locations where they are not too visible. For instance, you could place them below the cabinets or your L-shaped countertop corner.

This will ensure that the seam is hardly noticeable.

However, ensure that you don’t place the seams close to cutouts. This is because it will weaken the overall strength of your counter. I bet you don’t want that in your house. So, avoid this.

Pay Attention to the Size 

The next thing you’ll want to pay attention to is the size of granite. This is because without doing this, what you’ll get is a very lumpy seam. And believe me, this is the last thing you want for your kitchen or bathroom countertop. 

Now, this happens when the slabs or pieces joined together are unequal in length. As you can imagine, the seams will not be uniform. So, ensure that the dimensions of your granite slabs are the same. 

You can’t even take a risk with a slight difference in sizes. Yes, a difference that’s less than an inch is still significant. You’ll notice it. So, commit yourself to the use of equal slabs.

Pay Attention to the Seams

Finally, you’ll want to pay attention to the seams; after all, they are what you’re trying to hide. One thing you’ll need to keep in mind during the process is that wide seams are bad. This is because they’ll accumulate bacteria and mold over time then become more pronounced. So, go for thin seams.

How to Avoid Seams if Possible?

If you’re still thinking of avoiding granite seams, I’ve got to be honest with you. You’ll find it almost impossible to avoid granite countertop seams. Of course, unless your area is very small. 

As such, your concern should not be how to avoid these seams. Instead, you should focus on how to make them invisible and less pronounced. Well, I already discussed what you need to know above.

However, Corian Solid Surface is one option that allows you to enjoy a seamless countertop. This is a new option that serves as an alternative to granite. Don’t worry; you can still get a slab that looks like granite. However, with it, you won’t have to worry about seams.

Final Thoughts 

While we would love to avoid granite countertop seams, in most cases, they are unavoidable. In fact, in some other cases, they perform vital functions to keep your countertop in the best condition.

You can also contact Boston’s countertop experts at 978-447-1001 to get an invisible countertop seam and a perfect granite countertop.

Related Questions

Can a Bad Granite Seam Be Fixed?

You can use a wide variety of materials to fill in the gap between your granites. Popular examples that experienced fabricators can use include polyester glue, and epoxy resin that match your granite’s color.

Should Granite Seams Be Smooth?

Yes, your granite seams should be flat and smooth, as this is one of the hallmarks of a properly installed granite countertop. So, look out for granite installers that can guarantee this in your kitchen counters.