Sink Your Teeth Into Granite Sink Cutouts

Getting a sinking feeling of regret over choosing a sink style for your kitchen that's too small? Enlarging the cutout in an existing granite countertop for a slightly larger undermount sink is possible. However, cutting a granite countertop comes with risks. Make sure you know what you need from a contractor before pulling the lever on an enlarged sink area.

Know the Risks of Cutting Granite After Installation

While enlarging your sink cutout is technically possible, it's essential to decide if your dislike of your current sink is worth the risk that comes with this project. There's always a risk of your granite becoming damaged or compromised when altering it after installation.

No contractor will be able to guarantee that your slab won't crack when they cut into your granite. That's because a natural material like granite is prone to fissures that can crack under stress even if they aren't visible.

There Are Two Methods of Enlarging the Sink Opening in a Granite Countertop

Not all contractors will approach this job the same way. While some will feel confident about cutting your sink area right where it is, others will recommend temporarily removing your granite to make the adjustment. So be prepared to hear that your granite may need to be moved to a separate location to get this job done. 

Cutting Granite for a Bigger Sink at Your Home

When you hire a pro for on-site granite cutting, they’ll likely use either diamond blades or laser cutters to slowly cut a new template for your bigger sink. Be warned that the process can create a lot of dust in your home.

Modifications that don’t require moving the granite are often cheaper than shop modifications simply because you aren't paying for the time and labor to have your countertop removed, transported, and reinstalled. A local countertop repair pro can advise you on whether or not it’s feasible to cut your granite on-site.

Cutting Granite for a Bigger Sink at the Shop

Some contractors will insist on modifying your granite at their shop instead of at your home. Giving a granite slab proper support when cutting it reduces the odds of the granite cracking. Many contractors believe that the best method for altering granite is to remove it from your kitchen and bring it to a shop where they can fully secure and support it for the cleanest cut possible.

The other advantage of having granite brought to a shop is that a contractor can use a shop milling machine that is powerful and precise, whereas cutting installed granite requires hand tools. 

Yes, it is possible to remove granite slabs once installed. Pros must carefully remove them as a whole to avoid damage. It’s understandable if this very meticulous process may have you holding your breath as a homeowner, especially since granite countertops cost an average of  $2,000 to $4,500.

Determining If You Have Space for a Bigger Sink

The location of the exit pipe from the trap going into the wall plays a big role in determining if you have enough space for a larger undermount kitchen sink. If your new sink is deeper than the exit pipe, waste water won’t drain properly. In this case, you’ll need to have a pro cut and lower the exit pipe to make room. 

Is Recutting Granite for a Larger Sink Expensive?

Contractors typically price out granite alterations based on factors like configuration and granite thickness. Most homeowners can expect the new cutout combined with sink installation to cost between $300 and $400. You'll also have to factor in the cost of a new sink. In addition, you may need to factor in between $200 and $300 to hire a plumber to modify any piping configurations to work with your new sink.