Why Do We Put Steel Rods in Your Countertop?

What is the point of putting steel rods into your stone countertops? Steel rods help add strength and rigidity to your stone. On a typical sink cutout, there is only 4” of stone in the front and maybe 3 1/2” or so of stone behind the faucet. These are weak points where the stone has a tendency to be weak and break. By adding the steel, we strengthen this area, both for transportation to your home, and added strength after it gets installed. For unusual overhangs, it helps add strength and prevent breakage. Steel rods also prevent the stone from falling apart in the event of a break, which is useful when you are trying to move a piece.

How do we do put in the steel? We buy 10ft long 3/8” steel rods by the bundle. First, we cut the rods to a shorter length to fit the area where it needs to go. Then, we flip the granite over and use a bridge saw to cut out a 1/2” wide x 3/8” deep slot for the rod to rest in. At Washington Marble & Granite we put a steel rod both in front and in back of the cutout. The more strength the better! We put in the steel rod, mix epoxy, and glue it in.

Voila! The strength of steel has been added to your countertop.