Do It Yourself Granite Table

Granite tables can add elegance and flair to any dining room. They're durable and longer lasting than standard wooden tables. Granite can also be used to create smaller tables such as side tables, foyer tables and even cocktail or coffee tables. But building a granite table is not a beginner project and requires time, effort and knowledge of the materials. Does this Spark an idea?

Planning

Granite comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so each slab of granite will be unique. Keep this in mind if you are trying to create matching side tables or various pieces of furniture within a room. While the furniture itself may have an overall matching appearance, the grain of each piece of granite can vary greatly.

Granite can also be an expensive material, so set a budget for all of the necessary materials. Designate a portion of your budget to hardware for assembling the table, table legs and, of course, the largest portion of your budget, the granite slab.

Before purchasing any materials, design a concept for your table. Popular ideas include using a solid piece of granite or using smaller pieces of granite in a tile pattern.

Assembly

Granite is a heavy material, so use adequate support. Otherwise, you run the risk of having your table collapse beneath the weight of the granite and potentially injuring someone.

To begin, you will need to order the granite. Many companies that sell custom granite counters also accommodate special orders, such as a specific size or shape for a granite table. However, special orders can take up to eight weeks or more before they are delivered.

Once the granite has arrived, you can begin assembly. If you've purchased a granite table kit through a local contractor, then your kit will include all instructions and materials to assemble the table.

The frame of the table should be built to be sturdy and supportive of large amounts of weight. Aim to provide support to the center of the granite table. For example, a hexagonal shaped table base will provide support to the center of a round granite table, but also allow you to be seated comfortably. By supporting the center of the granite slab, you can prevent issues such as cracks or other damage, or in extreme cases, completely snapping in half.

Large-scale granite tables are an extremely difficult project and should be left to a professional. Large granite tables are often created by adhering the granite to other materials to strengthen the slab, which also adds weight and the table can become difficult to work with.