How To Install Marble Countertops In a Bathroom – Step-By-Step

In this article, you’re going to learn how to install marble countertops in your bathroom. This same process will also work for Granite countertops as well.

Marble countertops are actually pretty easy to install when compared to other high-quality countertop options. Tile countertops are far more difficult and time-consuming to install, harder to clean, and usually don’t look as good.

But, marble countertops look amazing, can be installed with basic tools, and are surprisingly affordable if you install them yourself.

The key is to find pre-fabricated marble countertops, which are found at most tile and stone stores. The cost for a pref-fabbed slab will typically range from $200 (if it has defects) to $500 if it’s in perfect condition. Of course, it can get more expensive than that.

So, without further ado, here’s how to install marble countertops in your bathroom, step-by-step.

Step #1 – Remove The Existing Countertops

This is obvious, but it is the first step. Just be careful when removing the backsplashes, otherwise you’ll have to do some drywall repairs as well.

Step #2 – Ensure the Cabinets are Level and Flat

Stone countertops are extremely rigid and have very little flex. They need to be supported evenly. If your cabinets aren’t flat, the countertops may crack or break once installed.

So, take a level and make sure your cabinets are flat and level. If they aren’t, they can be shimmed later. However, if the cabinets are way out of whack. like mine were in the video above, then your better off just re-installing them completely.

Step #3 – Measure the Cabinets

Measure from the wall to the edge of the cabinets in multiple spots for both the width and length of the countertops. Pay attention to any wavy walls, or out of square walls because they will effect the installation. Very rarely will you find walls perfectly square and straight.

If you have the proper materials, you can also just create a template by hot-glueing strips of vinyl to conform to the walls so you can get a perfect shape for your countertops.

Step #4 – Cut a Wood Template Out of 5/8″ Plywood and Test Fit

If you’re using 2cm thick stone (most common), then you must install some plywood for support. 3cm stone installations can skip this step.

Use the measurements from step 3 to cut the template out of the plywood. You’ll also want to cut the sink hole from the plywood as well to test fit the location of the sink. Just make sure you make room for any backsplashes you’ll be installing later.

Test fit the wood template and make sure it fits. The wood template should go from the wall to the edge of the countertop.

Step #5 – Use the Wood template to mark the countertops for cutting

Lay the wood template on top of the stone countertops to mark where you want to cut the marble or granite. Since you’ve already test fit the wood template, you know that it will fit. So, simply cut the stone countertops to the same size.

However, be sure to pay attention to the pre-fabricated edge of the stone as this will need to hang over the cabinets and the plywood. So, your countertops will actually be bigger than the countertops. Watch the video about for a visual.

Step #6 – Cut the Marble or Stone Countertops Using a Diamond Blade

The best blade to use is a Turbo Diamond Blade, and ideally you’ll put water on it while cutting to eliminate dust and keep the blade cool. However, this isn’t necessary.

I recommend using a 7″ blade on a circular saw to make the cutting go easier, because it does take time. An angle grinder will work as well, it will just take more time and effort.

You’ll also want to cut the sink hole out before installing the countertops, so use the template to mark the sink hole location and carefully cut it out.

Step #7 – Screw the Plywood Template to the Countertops

Using 1 5/8″ wood screws, attach the plywood template to the top of the cabinets. If your cabinets aren’t perfectly level and flat, place shims underneath the plywood to even it out. You may have to remove the cabinet drawers to install the shims. Also, it’s a good idea to pre-drill holes in the cabinets so you don’t end up splitting the cabinet wood while installing a screw.

Step #8 – Dryfit the Stone Countertops

Now it’s time to test fit the granite or marble tops to see if they fit. When you carry the stone countertops, always keep them vertical. If you carry them horizontally they could snap.

To test the fit, place the back of the countertops in first, holding them vertically, and then slowly lower down the front until they make contact with the cabinets. You may need to shave some stone off here and there to get them to fit.

Step #9 – Glue the Stone Countertops Down

Once you’ve successfully dry-fitted the countertops, it’s time to make the install permanent. Remove the countertops, then generously apply some silicone to the entire surface of the plywood. This silicone will act as an adhesive and a cushion for the stone countertops.

Then, put the countertops back into place and you’re all set!

Step #10 – Install the Backsplash

You can either use tile for the backsplash, or a pre-fabricated backsplash that usually comes with the countertops. If you use the stone backsplash, just use an adhesive that will attach to the walls and the stone. If you use tile, a polymer modified thin-set mortar is the best way to attach tile.

Step #11 – Install the Sink

If you’re using a porcelain sink, all you need to do is glue the sink down with some 100% silicone caulking. If you’re using  a metal sink, then you’ll want to use brackets to hold the sink in place.

And that’s it!