In this article, we will go over best practices for choosing seam placement on your countertop.
This article applies to MeasureSquare Stone Desktop Edition
It is always best to minimize the number of seams in your countertop for appearance's sake as well as for the best structural integrity. However, when your countertop is sufficiently large to require at least one seam, there can be a few different perspectives. Consider factors such as visibility, load capability, and usage level.
1. Make sure your seam is located in an area where it is adequately supported. Generally, areas of the countertop will have less support, such as sinks or areas with undermount appliances. This means that seams located there will naturally be more vulnerable to breakage where there is more weight due to items such as dishes, pots, and pans. You will still see seams place in these areas for a more seamless appearance if the installer determines that the area can bear the expected weight.
2. Place your seam in a low traffic area. The less traffic in a section of your countertop, the more chance your seam has of lasting. Since corners usually see less usage, you will often see seams placed there.
3. When in doubt, seek advice from the fabricator. At the end of the day, the fabricator is the one with the best knowledge of the size and thickness of the countertop. They will be a good source of knowledge of how many slab and seams to expect.