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Our Process

Empire Countertops has a proven process for getting you a high quality install on your countertop.

Selections

Before receiving an initial estimate, we recommend setting an appointment at one of our showroom locations to choose the perfect countertop option for your project.
Please bring your cabinet dimensions or email a floor plan/blueprint prior to your appointment, if available.

You may also bring any paint, tile, or flooring samples with you to your appointment.

Work with one of our knowledgeable sales staff to narrow down your countertop options.
A rough estimate based on your provided dimensions and initial material selection(s) will be given.
If your project is under 15 sqft., it is subject to a minimum trip charge of $150 based on distance.
The next step is scheduling field measurements once your cabinets are in place. We require a $150 measure deposit before scheduling. This can be paid over the phone, in person, or by filling out a credit card authorization form online.

Before scheduling template - all details must be confirmed, including but not limited to, product, color, edge style(s), sink option(s), backsplash, overhangs, and any custom details.
We require a refundable $150 deposit prior to scheduling official field measurements. If you move forward with your project, this amount is credited back on your final estimate.
Cabinets must be plumb, level, square and secured to the walls and/or floor. If new cabinets are part of your project, they must be installed before countertops can be measured.
We value your time and ask that you please value ours. If we arrive and the job site is not ready for template, a dry run fee will be assessed for each return trip.
Please notify your sales person within 12 hours of your scheduled template of any changes or to reschedule if necessary to avoid any additional trip charges.

Countertops and pathways must be completely cleared off with no obstructions.
All cabinets must be fastened in their permanent location. Cabinets must be level and plumb. Any cabinet work that could affect our dimensions must complete before template.
We highly encourage the customer or project manager to be onsite to answer any questions on template day.
Standard overhang on all countertops is 1.5” unless otherwise noted in writing. No verbal requests for modification will be accepted after final template is received back. Modifications made after template will be assessed and subject to sign off by the customer. They may result in an additional trip fee to remeasure.
Any adjustments after template could affect the final price and installation date.

Official field measurements are received the day after template. Your sales person will send an updated estimate with official square footage along with all paperwork to be signed and returned.
If your project is under 15 sqft., it is subject to a minimum trip charge of $150 based on distance.
Projects over $1,500 require a 50% deposit before the job is turned in to production. Projects under $1,500 must be paid upfront in full.
Your project will not be submitted or scheduled for installation until ALL signed paperwork and payment have been received.
Special order and non-stocking materials will not ordered until payment and paperwork have been returned. Lead times may vary based on material availability from supplier.
Your sales person cannot schedule your installation date.
A member of Empire’s production staff will reach out within 72 hours of your project being submitted to schedule an installation date for in-stock material.

If custom material is being ordered, you will not receive a scheduling call until the material arrives on our property. *Due to the uncertainty of the quartz countertop market, extended lead times may apply*

Your sales person does not schedule your install date.
A member of our production staff will reach out within 72 hours of receiving your material to schedule an installation date.
Installs typically take 1 day. If an unforeseen additional trip is required due to the jobsite not being ready, there will be a fee to return. Your project will be rescheduled for our next available time slot.
The typical arrival window for installation is between 8:00am-1:00pm. This does not mean the installation crew will arrive at 8:00am and be finished by 1:00pm. If our installation crews are running behind schedule and will arrive after the 1pm time slot, they will call ahead to let you know.

Fabrication will not begin until all signed paperwork is received and payment has been made.
The fabrication process takes a minimum of 7-12 business days. Lead times may be extended due to your choice of material and/or our current production load.
Any remnants or pieces considered to be scrap or waste that are produced during fabrication are either thrown away or become the property of Empire Countertops.

All plumbing, electrical, and gas lines must be fully disconnected and removed prior to installation. If an additional trip is required due to these items not being unhooked, a dry run fee will be assessed.
Sink and faucet hole cutouts are done onsite day of install. These items must be onsite.

Prior to installation, customer should cover anything they want to protect. The installation will result in the production of dust. Minor damage to cabinets, paint, trim work, floors, and/or drywall are possible. These items are considered incidental damage and are the customer’s responsibility to repair.

Any modifications to cabinets for farmhouse sinks, extended overhangs, etc. must be complete prior to countertop install. Empire does not supply or install any type of supports or brackets.
Empire Countertops does not employ licensed plumbers, electricians, or carpenters. These services, if needed, are to be contracted separately by the customer.
Please wait 24 hours before reconnecting your plumbing or beginning to use your new countertops. This ensures that your sink and countertops are properly set and adhered.
Existing countertops and tile backsplash must be removed prior to install unless previously discussed and outlined in your contract. Empire can provide these services at an additional cost but must know ahead of time to ensure installation crews are prepared with the proper equipment.

Mirrors touching existing backsplash or countertops must be removed and rehung by the customer.

A substrate is required for any countertop receiving an edge build up i.e mitered/laminated edge, Empire can provide the material for additional charge. Please be sure to discuss this with your sales person.
Customer has 24 hours after installation is complete to inspect Empire’s craftsmanship and notify Empire of any areas of concern.