Construction Expert Opines on Granite Installation Techniques

Case Overview

This case takes place in Indiana and involves a claim against a general contractor who is being sued by a customer. The general constructor installed a kitchen in the plaintiff’s home and used materials that the homeowner had purchased in advance, which included various slabs of granite that were to be used for counter tops. The homeowner alleges that the kitchen wasn’t properly installed, because he was dissatisfied with the aesthetics of the finished kitchen. The contractor suggested that the homeowner’s complaints are against the granite itself, and its natural color patterns, while the homeowner contends the lack of aesthetic appeal is the result of poor installation technique. The contractor contends that the installation was seamless and in line with industry standards, and that any issues the homeowner complains of are the result of the materials, which he selected and purchased independently and instructed the contractor to install. There were claims pertaining to the coloring, natural patterns, and sealant used to protect the stone, which the plaintiff argued may have altered the appearance of the granite during installation. A number of experts with specializations in construction and material science were sought to opine on this issue.