Wow - So much to write. let me give you an outline:
Before you start, check with your states government to see what type of license is required. You may be required to get a contractors license, but you most likely will have to get a state tax license. You can look this up or just call the main contractor's board in your state. This outline is a very simplified plan of attack for starting the business and overlooks the licensing issues as they vary from state to state.
I. Learn the technique for fabricating slabs into countertops
A) Making edge designs
There are several designs and sizes, but the most popular by far are the full bullnose, the demi bullnose, the bevel and the ogee. These should be ground into the
stone with a router bit to give a uniform and consistent shape.
B) Polishing edge designs
After grinding the shape in place you should use diamond polishing pads to match the shine of the newly detailed edge to that of the surface of the slab.
C) Sinkholes
A) Undermount Sinks - some will be oval and some will be rectangular and the objective is to make the hole drop in over the sink. There is generally no edge
design on the sinkhole, but you will still need to grind it to the shape you desire and polish it as it will be visible when completed. Silicone between sink and
granite, and between sink and subdeck if there is a subdeck.
B) Drop-in Sinks - just cut a hole and drop it in. Make sure you use silicone between the sink and the stone.
D) Backsplashes - standard heights, usually only flat polished consistent with slab. Can be mounted with silicone or siliconized acrylic caulk if it doesn't bleed through that
stone (on some it will and on some it won't)
II. Learn how to install the countertops
A) Directly to a cabinet - Can be mounted with silicone or siliconized acrylic caulk if it doesn't bleed through that
stone (on some it will and on some it won't)
B) Over a subdeck - same
III. Generate sales to fill
You will need orders for these to make it profitable. It is easier to offer a select few shapes and sizes when you start as it makes it easier to fill the orders on a timely basis as repetition breeds ease and comfort.
IV. After sales
You can also offer to seal the granite once the install is finished.
We offer a DVD set on Fabricating stone, and it looks like you could benefit from it. Check this link out:
http://www.defusco.com/howto-dvds-tool-packages-c-654.htmlIn this section we have tool packages for fabricating stone also.
IV. Develop a business plan to become successful.
If you have questions please email me or call me at 800-289-6834.
Mark
