Design Your Project

Before making your purchase, BAGM wants to ensure you have a clear understanding of both the materials you are selecting and the process from start to finish. Every project is unique, with variables that affect design and installation. From your first conversation with a sales associate through final installation, our goal is to make the experience as smooth as possible.

Design choices involve more than just appearance. Each option comes with advantages and trade-offs. We want you to consider not only the aesthetics of your project, but also the functionality, durability, and long-term maintenance of your selections. The best way to achieve success is through education and alignment of expectations upfront — and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Project Type

Our products can be installed in several different applications. Understanding which type or types you are planning will help ensure we provide all the necessary information for a successful project.

Preparation

Regardless of your project type, preparation will need to be completed by the homeowner or other trades before installation. Our products are extremely durable; however, that durability depends directly on the quality of the support structure.

Certain applications—such as wall panels—require full, continuous support and may need additional fasteners.
Other applications, like countertops, can have open spaces with support at set intervals (for example, cabinets beneath a top).
All supporting surfaces must be flat, with a variation of no more than 1/8 inch. BAGM can work outside this tolerance, but additional caulking, plastering, or trim may be required to cover resulting gaps.

Always consult your BAGM associate regarding any specialty preparation needed for your specific project type.

Countertops are the most common application at BAGM. From full kitchen projects to small vanities, our materials can be used in nearly any countertop design. Each project is custom fabricated to your specifications, ensuring the best fit and finish for your space.

Standard Backsplash & Side Splash

Standard Backsplash refers to the small vertical piece installed along the back edge of a countertop—typically 3 inches tall for vanities and 4 inches tall for kitchens, laundry rooms, or wet bars. If your backsplash will meet another surface—such as a mirror in a bathroom or trim under a kitchen window—BAGM can adjust the height to best fit your design. The minimum height will vary depending on the material, as some materials are too fragile to cut under 2–3 inches. Be sure to review tolerances with your BAGM representative to understand any gapping that may occur where the splash meets another product.

Side Splash is a similar concept but installed along the side of the countertop instead of the back. While not standard for quoting, side splashes are recommended when a water source is near the countertop edge to help protect adjacent surfaces.

Most BAGM materials are fabricated in 3 cm (1.25″) thickness. In some situations, such as when clearance is limited by sinks, faucets, or appliances, materials can be milled down to a thinner profile. This option may involve additional cost and production time.

A full-height backsplash is fabricated from the same material and thickness as your countertop unless otherwise specified. This design has become increasingly popular due to its clean, seamless appearance and ease of maintenance compared to traditional tile backsplash.

A full-height backsplash runs the full distance between the countertop and the upper cabinets, exhaust hood, or even the ceiling. The standard installation height is from the countertop to the bottom of the upper cabinets, unless otherwise requested. The stopping point—whether at the end of a cabinet or the end of a countertop—should be reviewed and confirmed at the time of sale. Specialty scroll designs or extended heights may involve additional charges.

Seams and Measurements

Each full-height project is unique, and the approach may vary depending on layout, access, and material size. You will work with your sales associate and project manager to determine the best execution plan for your space.

BAGM typically takes rough dimensions during the initial template and final dimensions during a second visit after the lower countertops have been installed.
Most installations require all permanent fixtures (such as cabinets and hoods) to be in place before templating. In certain situations—such as when cabinets rest on the countertop—we may mark their placement instead and request they be installed after the splash is set.
Occasionally, BAGM may request temporary installation of upper cabinets for measuring purposes, to be removed and then reinstalled after the backsplash. This approach minimizes tolerance and ensures a cleaner fit.

Cabinet and Wall Preparation

To achieve the best results, BAGM recommends that upper cabinets have full, flat backs so that the backsplash can fit tightly and cleanly beneath. If the cabinet bottoms are not level or flat, trimming may be required following installation.

Be sure to review tolerances between your backsplash, cabinets, and walls with your BAGM representative prior to fabrication.
When possible, consider having outlets installed in the cabinetry rather than through the backsplash. This improves both the appearance and functionality of the design. See the Cut-Outs section for more details about outlet openings.
It is crucial that the front openings between cabinets are slightly wider than the back; otherwise, inserting a full-size backsplash panel into place can become impossible.

(Add image examples of full-height backsplash layouts and clearance recommendations.)

Fireplace projects can range widely in design—from a simple hearth to full floor-to-ceiling wall cladding. Because of this variety, it is essential to review all design details with your sales associate and project manager early in the process.

Each fireplace installation presents its own unique requirements. Details such as scheduling phases, seam locations, and caulking or adhesive types must be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, particularly for more intricate or custom designs. To ensure a smooth installation, BAGM recommends a detailed design review and preparation meeting well before our team is scheduled to arrive on site.

For complex or non-standard designs, a site visit and coordination meeting with other trades may be required to confirm measurements, material handling logistics, and installation sequencing.

Be sure to discuss your material selections with BAGM, as certain products may not be suitable, recommended, or guaranteed for use in fireplace applications due to heat exposure or manufacturer limitations.

Full-slab showers have become increasingly popular due to their seamless appearance and minimal grout joints, which make cleaning and maintenance much easier compared to traditional tile showers.

As with fireplace projects, each shower installation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by your sales associate and project manager to ensure the design, scheduling phases, and installation sequence are properly coordinated.

Be sure to review all plumbing specifications, as well as the locations of shelves, niches, or benches, so these details can be planned and fabricated accurately. This pre-planning helps determine if seams will be required and ensures all elements align correctly on site.

Please note that BAGM does not perform shower prep work or waterproofing. These steps must be completed by another qualified trade, such as a flooring or tile contractor, prior to our installation.

ADD Shower pieces, multiple phases, ceiling damage during install

While tub decks typically require a smaller amount of material, it is important to review all design specifications carefully to ensure proper fit and functionality.

Begin by confirming whether your tub is an undermount or top-mounted design. Each style has unique advantages and considerations—be sure to discuss your preferences and functionality needs with your sales associate and project manager.

When planning your project, review the locations of faucet holes, hand wands, and controls to ensure proper operation and accessibility.

If your design includes stone risers around the tub, BAGM will need to review access options for plumbing and pump service from another area. Because stone panels are rigid and non-removable, access through the stone itself is not feasible once installed.

BAGM often recommends incorporating a taller backsplash or wall protection around the tub area to prevent water damage to surrounding walls and finishes.

Several wall applications—such as showers and fireplaces—have already been discussed individually; however, the same principles apply to all vertical installations.

With any wall application, it is essential to review your project in detail with your sales associate and project manager to ensure proper planning, preparation, and installation. Understanding how the stone will be mounted, what support or fastening methods are required, and how site conditions may affect handling and alignment is crucial to the overall success of the project.

Proper preparation and coordination with other trades before installation will help ensure both the structural integrity and the visual quality of your finished design.

BAGM can template, cut, and fabricate flooring materials to your specifications; however, we do not perform the installation. Once fabrication is complete, BAGM will deliver the flooring to your job site for installation by your flooring contractor.

This includes applications such as stair treads and risers, which can be fabricated from the same materials as your countertops or wall panels for a cohesive design.

Please note that BAGM products can be slippery when wet. We recommend reviewing your material selections carefully and considering the application of a non-slip coating or finish after installation to improve traction and safety.

Several of BAGM’s products are well-suited for outdoor applications. Be sure to review the Materials section and consult with your sales associate to confirm which materials are approved and recommended for exterior use. The most common outdoor installations include grill areas, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits.

Outdoor projects require special attention to support structure and environmental exposure. With the wide temperature range we experience in Wisconsin, it is crucial that the support structure is stable and properly designed. Any movement or shifting of the base can lead to cracking or separation of the stone materials.

Because there is no permanent hard-surface adhesive that can withstand the seasonal freeze–thaw cycles in our climate, BAGM strives to eliminate seams in outdoor installations whenever possible. This is often achieved through height adjustments or modified layouts during fabrication.

Please note that no warranty is provided for outdoor installations due to the variable environmental conditions that can impact product performance over time.

BAGM offers removal and disposal of existing countertops; however, this service does not include concrete or tile surfaces. Before confirming this service, photographs of the existing area(s) must be provided for review to ensure proper planning and accurate pricing.

Plumbing, Electrical, Gas, and Cabinetry

BAGM does not perform plumbing, electrical, gas, or cabinetry work. These items must be disconnected prior to BAGM’s arrival for installation or removal. This includes, but is not limited to:

Sinks and faucets (including any existing sink being reused)
Cooktops and ranges
Electrical connections or outlets affecting the countertop area
Cabinetry modifications or adjustments

In some cases, the scope of work required for removal or reconnection may extend beyond BAGM’s skill set and must be completed by qualified contractors prior to or following our portion of the project.

Project Design & Information

Your project begins by providing BAGM with detailed information about your design and site conditions. This allows our team to accurately guide you through material selection, quoting, and scheduling. You can share this information in person at one of our showrooms or remotely by phone or email prior to your visit.

To ensure clear communication and smooth coordination, BAGM collects the following contact details:

Name(s), Email Address, and Phone Number
Job Address and Billing Address

BAGM works with both homeowners and industry professionals, including contractors, cabinet shops, and designers. Our goal is to gather complete contact information and clearly understand the role of each contact on your project.

For example, a designer may be responsible for making material and aesthetic decisions, while a contractor may serve as the scheduling or site coordination contact. In most cases, BAGM prefers to communicate directly with the homeowner whenever possible to ensure that the final result aligns with their vision. However, we fully understand that in some cases, homeowners may authorize another trade professional to make decisions or manage the process on their behalf.

The more detailed your drawings are, the more accurately BAGM’s sales associates can provide pricing, design guidance, and project expectations. Drawings help us understand your layout, anticipate potential challenges, and ensure your design goals are met.

Unless your project is a pick-up situation, these drawings are not used for production, as BAGM will take precise field dimensions during the template phase. However, they serve as an important design and reference tool throughout the project.

We request that updated drawings be provided during the Sales Review 2 stage to ensure we have the most current information before fabrication begins. For example, you may share an overall house plan during your initial design consultation, but later provide detailed cabinet plans once they are finalized. This ensures alignment between design intent, measurements, and final installation.

Photos are extremely helpful—especially for remodel projects where detailed drawings may not be available. Providing clear images of the existing space allows BAGM to better understand the scope and conditions of your project.

Photos also help our team make accurate design recommendations, identify potential access or installation challenges, and confirm details such as wall layouts, window placements, and existing finishes. The more visual information provided, the more efficiently we can plan and execute your project.

Many customers find design ideas online or draw inspiration from other completed projects. Sharing these inspiration images or design notes helps BAGM understand your style preferences and overall design goals.

Our team will review both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your inspiration photos to ensure your expectations align with the characteristics and limitations of the materials you select. This collaborative review helps confirm that the finished project delivers the look you want while maintaining the durability and performance you expect.

A key detail is the specific location within your job site where the project will take place. BAGM products are heavy and at times too large to fit into certain areas of a home. The most crucial consideration is whether the project is upstairs or downstairs. If possible, provide photos of the access points so we can review our capabilities, determine if equipment rentals are needed, or assess whether seams must be added for installation.

Materials

BAGM offers several high-quality material options for your project.
Choosing your material type is often one of the most exciting parts of the design process. Each product has its own unique characteristics, sourced from around the world. Your BAGM sales associate will guide you through these differences to help you select the right material for your space and lifestyle.

Be sure to understand the pros and cons of each material, as well as the available sizes and finishes.

Most BAGM materials are available in multiple slab sizes, which can affect seam placement (see the Seam section for more details).

Even within each category of natural stone, there are variations that may affect performance and design options. Stones with more character can limit available edge styles, overhangs, or seam locations.
Most natural stones will contain small amounts of resin fill used to reinforce the surface and fill natural voids. Different minerals within the stone can affect both appearance and texture.

Natural stone will vary even within the same color or lot.
Common natural features include fissures, chipping, inclusions, and polish variation — all industry-accepted characteristics. BAGM follows the Natural Stone Institute standards for professional repairs. For more information, visit https://naturalstoneinstitute.org.

Most natural stones are offered in 3 cm thickness, with select colors available in 2 cm.

Granite

A hard, crystalline igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, mica, and feldspar.
Granite is the most common natural stone used at BAGM. It’s extremely durable — scratch and heat resistant — making it ideal for nearly all applications.
Granite is a porous material and is sealed prior to installation using a 15-year sealant. We recommend inspecting the surface annually to determine if re-sealing is needed.

Quartzite

Quartzite offers the durability of granite with the depth and beauty of marble. It’s often harder and denser than granite, which can increase cost due to fabrication difficulty.
Some lighter quartzites can be more porous. BAGM performs absorption testing whenever possible and uses a specialty sealer, but additional maintenance and resealing may be required over time.

Marble

Marble is prized for its timeless elegance and unique veining. It’s a metamorphic rock formed from limestone, making it softer and more porous than granite.
Over time, marble develops a patina effect from light staining and surface wear — a natural aging process many customers appreciate.
Because of its softness, BAGM does not generally recommend marble for high-use areas. Customer sign-off is required before ordering marble materials.

Soapstone

A metamorphic rock softer than granite and quartzite but harder than most marbles.
Soapstone is naturally non-porous and extremely heat resistant, making it excellent for fireplaces and hearths.
Customers can periodically apply mineral oil or wax to mask scratches and enhance the rich, dark finish.

Other Natural Stones

Other options, such as limestone, dolomite, and slate, are available and reviewed on a case-by-case basis with your BAGM sales associate.

Quartz is an engineered surface made by combining approximately 90–95% ground quartz with 5–10% resins, polymers, and pigments.
This creates a durable, non-porous surface with a consistent appearance. While more uniform than natural stone, quartz may still have minor imperfections such as:

Subtle variation in color, pattern, or aggregate size not visible beyond six feet.
Resin or pigment pooling up to the size of a U.S. quarter.

BAGM adheres to manufacturer and industry standards when determining acceptable characteristics.

Quartz is more stain-resistant than natural stone but less scratch- and heat-resistant than granite or quartzite. Darker quartz colors may require more frequent cleaning to minimize fingerprints and smudges.

Quartz should not be used for outdoor applications or fireplaces. Repairs are difficult and may remain visible. Not recommended for windows sills unless windows are UV treated as quartz will discolor from direct sunlight.

Most quartz materials are available in 3 cm thickness, with select colors in 2 cm or 1 cm.

Standard Quartz

Standard quartz has been used since the 1960s and remains the most popular countertop material in the U.S.

BAGM partners with several leading manufacturers but curates a select collection of BAGM quartz colors to streamline selection and reduce cost.

Printed Quartz

Printed quartz offers more detailed patterns through surface printing technology. However, these materials are typically not full-body, meaning the pattern does not continue through the edge. Mitered edges are recommended for a seamless look.

Printed quartz cannot be effectively repaired if scratched without altering the surface design. Most printed quartz comes in 2 cm thickness.

Sintered material, better known as Ultra-Compact Surfaces, are among the newest products at BAGM. They are non-porous, UV-resistant, and withstand extreme temperatures — suitable for outdoor kitchens and fireplace surrounds.

Like printed quartz, sintered products are not full-body, so mitered edges are recommended for a consistent appearance. Scratches cannot be repaired without changing the finish.

While usable for countertops, BAGM primarily recommends sintered materials for vertical applications such as showers and fireplaces.
When used horizontally, additional sub-top support and seams at tight inside corners are required.

Typical thicknesses: 1 cm and 2 cm, with select options available in 3 cm.

Porcelain

Similar to large-format porcelain tile, available in slab form. Multiple manufacturers provide a variety of designs and finishes.

Dekton

Dekton, by Cosentino (maker of Silestone quartz), is a leading sintered material. Cosentino pioneered this surface category, combining advanced durability with modern aesthetics.

The finish of your material affects both look and performance. Each surface type has unique finish options, and your BAGM sales associate can help determine the best choice for your project.

Finishes are typically completed at the factory before BAGM receives the material. Changing the finish post-production may incur additional costs.

Polished

The most popular finish at BAGM. Highly reflective, showing the full vibrancy and depth of the material. Most durable and resistant to staining.

Leathered

A textured, matte, finish with a soft, natural feel. Less durable against staining than polished, but more durable than honed.

Honed

A smooth, matte finish without texture. More susceptible to staining and water spotting due to the open surface pores. Often honed surfaces will require additional maintenance and is generally not recommended by BAGM especially for specific materials.

Other

A newer item to our industry is custom finished from specific designs and textures of the materials. Often not functional for countertops; however, a likely application would be vertical surfaces. Significant added costs would be involved for specialty surface finishing.

Available standard thicknesses include 1 cm, 2 cm, and 3 cm, with custom thicknesses possible via mitering or lamination.

BAGM uses Fusion Drive layout software to digitally map your CAD design onto your chosen material slab. This advanced system provides an accurate preview, though minor variation may occur in the final product.

No Layout: BAGM project manager handles the layout – idea for most standard projects.
Email Layout: A digital layout and augmented view are sent to you for review and approval. Timely communication is requested to say on schedule.
In-Person Layout: Meet at BAGM to participate in digital layout – recommended for complex or custom designs. May affect project timeline or cost.

Overhang | Edges | Inside Radius

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Material Type	Overhang	Edge Profile	Radius
Granite	Content	Content	Content
Quartzite	Content	Content	Content
Quartz	Content	Content	Content

Cut Outs | Appliances | Other Trades

BAGM products often interact with other trades and purchased components, so understanding how these elements work together is essential to a smooth and successful project. Reviewing these details early helps prevent scheduling conflicts, fit issues, or design changes later in the process.

Be sure to review your Template and Install Checklists, along with the BAGM Project Timeline, to ensure you are prepared with all the necessary information before fabrication begins.

Cut-Out Information

All cut-out details must be provided during the job creation phase so they can be reviewed as part of the overall design. In most cases, this means supplying model numbers and manufacturer specifications for your sinks, faucets, cooktops, or other built-in items. In special circumstances, BAGM may request to have the physical item on site prior to fabrication for verification.

Cut-Out Centers

By default, BAGM centers all cut-outs based on the base cabinet doors or drawers beneath them. If you would like your sink, cooktop, or faucet aligned differently—such as centered on lighting, a window, or another visual feature—please communicate this with BAGM during the design phase.
Keep in mind that some sinks have offset bowls, which may cause the faucet to be positioned off-center relative to the overall cut-out.

Cut-Out Depth

Cut-outs are typically placed as close to the front edge of the countertop as practical. This placement helps maximize usability and ensures appliances and fixtures fit properly within cabinetry clearances. If you prefer a greater setback for aesthetic or functional reasons, please discuss this with your BAGM representative ahead of time so the layout can be adjusted accordingly.

Sinks and faucets are primary components in most BAGM projects. Whether you purchase these items through BAGM or supply your own, it is important that your selections are compatible with your overall design, cabinetry, and countertop materials.

Undermount Sinks

Undermount sinks are the most common style used with BAGM products. Mounted below the countertop surface, they offer a clean appearance and make daily cleaning easier.

BAGM utilizes manufacturer CAD cut-out files to ensure precise sizing and alignment for your specific sink model.

Cut-Out Options

Overhang: BAGM recommends an 1/8″–1/4″ overhang to ensure complete sink coverage and to conceal minor variations between the stone and sink edge.
Flush: Not recommended as this style exposes even the slightest material or sink variation.
Reveal: While this style can help hide some inconsistencies, the exposed ledge can collect debris and require more frequent cleaning.

Installation Notes

Most undermount sinks are adhered along the outer flange and are not finished with caulk at the visible joint. Certain styles—particularly reveal cut-outs—may include finish caulking, which can break down over time and may need occasional touch-up.
Some sink models include accessories (such as drain racks or cutting boards) that require specific cut-out designs. Please provide these details in advance for review.

Cabinet and Faucet Coordination

Be sure to review your sink selection with your cabinet maker or verify that existing cabinetry can accommodate the sink dimensions. Sinks are being manufactured larger, while cabinet dimensions have remained standard—particularly in recessed door styles, which reduce interior cabinet depth and may make some sinks incompatible.

Faucets and other plumbing fixtures must also be compatible with your sink and cabinetry. Although most faucet designs now feature forward-only handle operation, some still swing backward and may contact walls, backsplashes, or other fixtures. BAGM will position faucet holes as close to the sink cut-out as practical to maximize clearance. In limited spaces, the faucet may need to be secured to the sink flange rather than directly to the countertop.

Self-Rimming (Top-Mounted) Sinks

Self-rimming sinks rest on top of the countertop surface. While less common today due to cleaning challenges, they offer a practical advantage if future replacements are anticipated.

Most faucet holes on these sinks are integrated through the sink deck.
BAGM will set the sink in place, but mounting and caulking are completed by the plumber.
The same cabinet and faucet clearance considerations apply as with undermount sinks.

Vessel Sinks

Vessel sinks sit entirely on top of, or are partially recessed into, the countertop surface. They are popular for vanity applications due to their design flexibility but are more difficult to clean around.

Each vessel sink must be on site at the time of template for proper review due to variations in shape and mounting style.
BAGM typically aligns the front edge of the sink with the front face frame of the cabinetry, unless otherwise required by the sink design.
Mounting and caulking of vessel sinks are performed by the plumber.

Similar to sinks, bathtubs can be installed as either undermount or top-mounted designs. The same considerations apply regarding overhang, flush, or reveal cut-outs. Because of the tub’s edge profile and faucet reach, a reveal-style cut-out is often preferred for bathtubs to allow easier access and provide additional clearance.

Installation Requirements

Undermount tubs must be set in their permanent location prior to templating to ensure accurate measurement and fit.
Top-mounted tubs should be mocked in place during templating to confirm location and spacing, then removed prior to countertop installation. The tub can be permanently installed after the hard surface is in place.

Design & Access Considerations

Be sure to review:

Access panel locations for plumbing and pump service.
Tub faucet positioning and clearance, as discussed in the Project Types section under Tub Decks.

Finishing

BAGM will caulk around undermount tubs during installation.
For top-mounted tubs, mounting and final caulking are performed by the plumber.

Cooktops & Ranges

Accurate appliance information is essential for proper fabrication and installation. BAGM will need to confirm the model number and size of your cooktop—most commonly 30″, 36″, 48″, or 60″. Manufacturer specifications are used to determine the precise cut-out or opening size for your countertop.

Be sure to review the Appliance Overhangs section of this guide to understand the best practices for setting cabinet dimensions around ranges and cooktops.

Some cooktops and ranges are designed to pair with a separate downdraft ventilation unit. It is your responsibility to confirm that the selected downdraft model is compatible with your specific appliance.

As with sinks, it is important to coordinate appliance dimensions with your cabinet manufacturer or installer to ensure that the cabinetry can accommodate your chosen equipment.

Flush-mounted cooktops are not recommended by BAGM. Although they may appear seamless, these installations often create small gaps between the countertop and appliance that trap debris and are difficult to clean. In addition, many appliance designs do not allow for the precise tolerances required for a true flush fit. Attempting this type of installation typically involves added fabrication costs and reduced long-term functionality.

While BAGM may occasionally verify appliance fit during the project process, final installation of all appliances is performed by others.

BAGM does not perform any gas or electrical work. All such work must be completed by licensed contractors prior to BAGM’s arrival for installation. Proper coordination with your electrician or plumber is essential to ensure smooth scheduling and a safe work environment.

Backsplash Outlets

For projects with full-height backsplash, BAGM will typically need to cut openings for outlets. As mentioned in the Project Types section, relocating outlets to the cabinetry often provides a cleaner aesthetic and improved functionality.

If outlets will remain in the backsplash:

Electrical boxes should be installed and outlets mounted, but faceplates left off prior to templating.
After templating, outlets can be unscrewed and tipped into the box to allow for backsplash installation.
Once installation is complete, outlets can be reset and faceplates reattached.
Note that longer mounting screws and/or spacers may be required to ensure proper outlet alignment due to backsplash thickness.

Pop-Up Outlets

There are many variations of pop-up outlets, and their installation should be reviewed well in advance of your project’s fabrication and template. While these outlets can offer unique design features, certain models—particularly flush-mounted or hidden designs—are not compatible with hard surface materials due to thickness and structural limitations.

We strongly recommend that pop-up outlets be brought to BAGM prior to templating for review with your project manager, or at a minimum, that manufacturer specifications be provided in advance. If the physical unit is available, please have it on site during templating so our technician can review the exact installation requirements with you.

AGM does not perform cabinetry or trim work, but we will coordinate closely with your contractors in these areas to ensure proper fit and finish.

In most cases, cabinetry must be fully installed prior to BAGM’s templating and installation—except for any items that will sit on top of the countertops, which should be installed after the stone surfaces are in place.

For trim or molding that interacts with BAGM products, the opposite approach is recommended. Trim should be set tight to the installed stone to achieve a clean, finished appearance.

During the template activity, BAGM will need to know the size and placement of any trim that will meet or overlap our products. This information ensures proper allowances are made for material fit and final detailing.

BAGM does not perform masonry or tile work, but our team will coordinate with your contractors in these areas to ensure a seamless and professional finish.

For the best results, tile or masonry surfaces should butt into BAGM products rather than overlap them. This approach provides cleaner lines, reduces visible gaps, and ensures a more consistent overall appearance.

Whenever possible, mark the intended locations for tile or masonry before BAGM’s installation. This helps our team plan the best fit and alignment for your stone surfaces in relation to adjacent materials.

BAGM’s focus is on the fabrication and installation of our products. While our staff has general knowledge of other trades, these areas are not our specialty, and we intentionally limit our involvement to ensure all work is completed by the appropriate professionals.

It is important that you have a clear understanding of BAGM’s responsibilities versus those of other contractors. Proper coordination of duties, timelines, and communication between all parties will help ensure your project progresses smoothly and stays on schedule.

Additional Information & Expectations

Seams are a common and expected part of nearly every project BAGM performs—ranging from standard residential kitchens to high-end commercial installations. Due to the nature of the hard surface materials we work with, seams will always be visible to some degree.

Seam Necessity & Placement

The need for seams and their exact placement is determined by several factors, including:

Material size and availability
Overall design and layout
Site access and handling limitations (e.g., can the piece be safely moved into the space)

In many cases, design adjustments—such as modifying cabinet sizes or countertop heights—can help eliminate or relocate seams to less noticeable areas. While some seams are unavoidable, BAGM recommends reviewing your layout with your cabinet designer and sales associate early in the process. Avoiding seams in large islands or peninsula tops, where lighting and viewing angles highlight them most, will often yield the best results.

Seam Quality & Appearance

BAGM takes great pride in producing the highest-quality seams in the industry. We utilize:

Seam-matching photo technology
CNC cutting and milling precision
Pneumatic seam-setting techniques (when possible)
Color-matched epoxies applied by skilled technicians

Despite these advanced techniques, final seam placement is determined by BAGM based on material characteristics and installation feasibility.

Color variation and grain direction changes across a seam are normal and should be expected. For more information on visual consistency and layout coordination, refer to the Layout Options section of this guide.

Seam Characteristics

Chipping: Minor chipping can occur during fabrication and may make a seam slightly more noticeable. BAGM takes every precaution to minimize this.
Lippage: Raw materials can have natural concave or convex curvature. In accordance with Natural Stone Institute (NSI) standards, up to 1/32″ height difference at a seam is considered acceptable.

Gaps are common in countertop installations, often intentional to allow proper fitting.

Wall Gaps: Tops are set within ⅜’’ of a back wall (without backsplash) and ⅛’’ of a side wall. With stone backsplash, tolerances adjust to match wall conditions.

Crowned or Bowed Walls: Hard surfaces cannot flex to uneven walls. BAGM fills gaps with paintable caulk. Larger gaps may need to be recaulked over time by the customer.

Cabinet Gaps – Cabinets are not always perfectly level. BAGM may shim counters as needed, or recommend a carpenter if variation is excessive. Clear silicone is used to fill seams; trim can be added later for aesthetics. Industry standard requires cabinets level to within ±⅛’’ over 10 feet.

Tile Backsplash Gaps – Existing tile may not align perfectly with stone. Gaps may appear and can be filled with grout-matched caulk if provided by the customer; otherwise, filling is the responsibility of the customer or contractor.

BAGM takes great care to protect your home or job site during installation; however, minor incidental damage is an inherent part of the construction process. Understanding what to expect will help you prepare your space and minimize potential issues.

Walls, Cabinets, Appliances & Floors

Minor dings, scratches, or scuffs may occur during installation. BAGM uses protective materials such as rugs, laminate sheets, and moving pads, but 100% protection cannot be guaranteed.

BAGM may loosen or remove cabinet panels or other trim pieces when necessary to ensure a proper fit.
Appliances should be removed prior to installation when possible, though this is not always required.
BAGM will always err on the side of protecting cabinetry over drywall, as walls can be more easily repaired.

Fixtures

If you plan to reuse sinks, faucets, or other fixtures, they must be fully removed prior to installation. BAGM cannot be responsible for damage to fixtures that remain in place.

Tile Backsplash

Existing tile backsplashes may be damaged during removal of old countertops. Replacement or repair of these materials is the responsibility of the homeowner or contractor.

Mirrors

In bathroom installations, mirrors should be removed before countertop installation to prevent breakage or scratching.

Remodel Lines

When replacing old countertops, you may notice remodel lines—visible areas where the new countertop’s thickness differs from the previous one. These variations are normal and may require touch-up work by others.

Exterior Conditions

During installation, driveways or lawns may show temporary tire or trailer tracks from our delivery vehicles.

Removal & Disposal

When BAGM performs removal and disposal of existing countertops, there is an increased risk of incidental damage to walls, cabinetry, or surrounding finishes. BAGM is not responsible for damage that may occur during this process.

Dust & Cleanup

Certain on-site cutting and adjustments—especially for top-mount sinks and cooktops—can produce dust or debris. While BAGM uses vacuums and dust-control methods, some cleanup will still be necessary after installation.
To help minimize dust and protect your home:

Turn off HVAC systems during installation.
Seal off adjacent rooms and cover appliances or finishes.
Use caution when cleaning hard-surface dust to avoid scratching your new countertops.

BAGM completes cleanup to a “broom-swept” level, leaving the work area generally clean but not detailed.

BAGM uses standard caulking products suited to the materials and conditions of your installation. If you would like to use a specific color-matched silicone or grout caulk, please communicate this to BAGM in advance and provide the product before your scheduled installation.

Stone to Stone & Stone to Cabinet

BAGM uses Akemi Clear 100% Silicone, a durable bonding silicone designed for hard surfaces. This thicker silicone holds up well over time and has a slight haze, giving it a semi-transparent finish rather than completely clear.

Stone to Drywalled Walls

For areas where the countertop meets drywall, BAGM uses either clear or white paintable caulk.

Clear paintable caulk applies white and dries clear, but tends to shrink more than white paintable caulk.
For larger gaps, BAGM typically uses white paintable caulk, which can be easily painted by you or your painter to match wall color after installation.

Other Finishes

BAGM may decline to caulk against certain materials or surfaces, such as textured wallpaper, tile, specific window materials, or masonry. These areas are best addressed by other trades. Please discuss these details with your sales associate or project manager to clarify responsibilities prior to installation.

Once your design is ready, review the Project Timeline for next steps.