What is countertop rodding?

Silestone has twice the flexural strength of granite and requires no rodding. But if you are getting natural granite, you will want to make sure that your fabricator is taking the extra time and care necessary to rod your countertops. It provides 50% more strength to the stone. Typically, threaded round steel rods are installed underneath the granite at the sink area or other cutout areas because these are the weakest spots. It is sometimes recommended to apply a fiberglass mesh to the bottom of the granite also. It does not guarantee you won't get a crack, but it is the best precaution available. They even make a video for training installers called "Rodding and Repair of granite." Some fabricators cut corners and skip the rodding. Make sure that doesn't happen to you. If you want to learn more about this topic in-depth, check out the Marble Institute of America website at www.marble-institute.com.