Redesign Outdoor Kitchen Countertops

by Bill
(Hewlett, NY)

QUESTION:

I presently have an 8-foot-long grill island with a brick base and a granite countertop. I would like to add on an extension, so now it would be an "L" shape. Can I raise the original countertop to "bar" height and can I build the "extension" on top of pavers set on a concrete base or do I need a new footing? Thanks, Bill

ANSWER:

Bill, without a picture or inspecting your set-up it's hard to give a definitive answer, but I'll do my best.

Regarding the footing... you simply want a strong, stable and permanent base if you are also installing a new granite countertop on the extension. If you can accomplish this with pavers on concrete, then okay.... but it sounds a bit sketchy to me, unless you mean a bricks and mortar base similar to what you have... then that should be good.

Raising the original countertop is going to be a problem. I don't know how you will do this. If the granite was installed properly, it will be impossible to remove it from the base without cracking and damaging it.

I feel like I'm not quite "getting" your question. If you feel the same, upload a picture and ask again with more specific details. Otherwise....

I hope this helps,
Ryan