How hard is it for a homeowner to drill a faucet hole in an existing 3cm granite counter top?

Question

We're buying a new home that is in the construction stage.  The builder will offer a 5-hole configuration and install a faucet, soap dispenser, and hot water dispenser, but he wants to charge several times the actual retail price of some of these things.  We've used a local granite fabricator before, but they don't want to drill a hole in an existing granite countertop that they didn't install (that's not an option with this builder).

This is a 3 cm granite slab, and I'm pretty handy with tools when working with wood, but have no experience with granite.  I've watched some videos on drilling holes in granite, and it doesn't look too difficult or dangerous.  Of course I realize a diamond drill and possibly other tools (like a ring to contain the water at the drilling site) is required.  

If I were to get a simple faucet, and purchase the right tools, how hard would it be for me to drill my own hole(s) for soap & hot water dispensers?  Also, is there a serious danger of a novice damaging the granite by doing so?

Thanks for your help!

? · Accepted Answer

Very easy to do. 
As you expected ,you need a diamond hole saw and a drill to power it. 
It doesn't have to be water cooled , at least not like you are thinking. 
They dry cutting hole saw will cut like a knife through butter. 
Check out ebay or online for the diameter hole saw you need and what kind of mandrel you might need. .
It will give you an idea about cost, since that is what it will cost you.
Take your time . "Measure twice, cut once". Make a centering hole where you want it to be to start.

Bernard · Answer

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How hard is it for a homeowner to drill a faucet hole in an existing 3cm granite counter top?
We&#39;re buying a new home that is in the construction stage.  The builder will offer a 5-hole configuration and install a faucet, soap dispenser, and hot water dispenser, but he wants to charge several times the actual retail price of some of these things.  We&#39;ve used a local granite...

Anonymous · Answer

Granite Hole Saw

? · Answer

Hi Most jobs are a lot easier when you use the right tools, you can hire the drills and do the job yourself or pay someone the cost should be in the region of $40 a hole, I am not sure what your problem is with your builder.unless his supplier just supply the standard pre drilled granite top
cheers
Bob a job

Anonymous · Answer

There is a serious danger that a professional would damage the granite.
It might be cheaper and safer to demo the existing granite, make a template, and bring it to a pro with your requirements.
I've known top notch shipwrights that have botched cutting holes in existing granite.
Good luck.

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How hard is it for a homeowner to drill a faucet hole in an existing 3cm granite counter top?

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