- For granite and marble worktops, only use silicone sealant that is specially formulated for granite and marble, and observe the sealant manufacturer's instructions.
- If the cooktop is not accessible from below after installation, the seal must be removed in order for the cooktop to be taken out.
When I spoke to the builder today he said he had not installed a flushmount unit before which is a major red flag since he was proposing to do it himself. I was expecting the stonemason to do it. He suggested not putting any sealant around the cooktop because that would make it difficult to access, since the oven is beneath the cooktop. However not using sealant will mean debris builds up in the gap.
He suggested clear silicone. I have seen clear silicone used on an instore unit and it was a poor job. The finish on my stone edge is ok but it does have some subtle ridges from the cutting tool and clear silicone will show these imperfections. His other reason for using clear silicone was that it would stain less with oils - is this a real reason not to use white?
So I intend to give some very specific instructions so I get a good finish.
What sealant should be used (it needs to be heat resistant to 160 °C)?
What colour will match the stone best?
Should I get another trade or the builder to apply the sealant?
How will we remove the sealant to access the unit if required?
Is there a suitable sealant that is easier to remove in case of repairs?
Thanks in advance for any advice or previous experiences.