A Process Guide FOR Replacement Countertops:
- Understand the complexities involved in replacement countertops
- Considering the thickness of your countertop is crucial
- Determine if the backsplash will need replacement or repairs
- Coordinating a Plumber
- Sink & Faucet Replacement
- Understanding template, fabrication & install
- Measuring existing counters for quoting
- Shopping for new countertops
Thinking about giving your kitchen, bathroom or laundry room a makeover? Replacing your countertops is a great way to instantly upgrade your space. But before you start browsing for beautiful new quartz countertops, it’s important to understand the process of countertop replacement and take some measurements to get you started. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the things to consider and the process of measuring for replacement countertops.
Understanding the Countertop Replacement Process
Replacing your kitchen or bathroom countertops can significantly enhance your space, but it’s essential to understand the complexities involved beyond simply choosing a beautiful, new material. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:
Removal of Existing Countertops: Potential Pitfalls
Removing old countertops can be a messy and potentially damaging process. The adhesive used to secure the countertop can vary in strength and type, increasing the risk of damage to your walls or backsplash.
- Professional Removal: To minimize damage, consider requesting countertop removal in your quote. Professionals experienced in this task are equipped to handle unexpected challenges.
- Waivers and Potential Repairs: Be prepared to sign a waiver acknowledging the risk of damage to your walls. Minor repairs, such as patching and repainting, might be necessary after removal and install.
- Backsplash Considerations: If you’re keeping your existing backsplash, it might not align perfectly with the new countertop thickness. You may need to replace (tile) or refinish (wallboard) the backsplash to ensure a finished look.
Plumbing: A Separate Consideration
Countertop replacement typically doesn’t include plumbing work. This means you’ll need to coordinate with a licensed plumber to:
- Disconnection: Disconnect your sink and faucet prior to countertop removal.
- Reconnection: Reconnect all plumbing once the new countertop is installed.
Additional Factors to Consider
- Sink and Faucet: Typically the sink and faucet are also being purchased and replaced simultaneously. If you are considering reusing your current sink or faucet, it is possible that your sink and faucet do not have the correct hardware to be compatible with being installed with the new countertop material and/or thickness. You may need to purchase replacements in the end.
- Template: Most counters include a template for precise measurements on site. This will make your counter fit exactly. 50% of the quoted price is due as a deposit prior to template. Be aware that the final measurements can vary slightly from your rough measurements, which can alter your final price somewhat. For example, if you measure in round numbers or they suggest a change that you approve. Any changes in dimensions or changes made during template can adjust your quote up or down. Therefore, the quote will be finalized with a price after template.
- Fabrication & Installation Time: Countertop fabrication and installation time can vary depending on the complexity of the project. You will likely be without a functioning sink for 2 – 10 depending on your scheduling and the scope of your project.
By understanding these factors upfront, you can better prepare for your countertop replacement project and avoid unexpected surprises.
Measuring Your Existing Countertops
Before asking for a quote you’ll need to know how to measure your countertops. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Gather your supplies. You’ll need a tape measure, a pencil, and a paper to record your measurements.
- Measure the perimeter. Run the tape measure along the entire edge of your countertops, taking note of any cutouts for sinks, cooktops/ranges, or other fixtures. Be sure to measure the full length of any backsplashes as well.
- Measure the width. Don’t forget the overhang! If your countertops have an overhang, be sure to measure the distance from the edge of the countertop to the back wall. This measurement may not be standard, especially if your counters are several years old.
- Measure the thickness. Measure the thickness of your current countertops. This will allow you to enquire about the impacts as discussed above.
Shopping For New Countertops
Once you have your measurements, you’re ready to start shopping for your new countertops! When looking for countertops, be sure to factor in the following:
- The thickness of the countertop material. Countertops come in a variety of thicknesses, so be sure to choose one that will complement the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom.
- Edge profiles. Countertops come in a variety of edge profiles, such as pencil, roundover, and bevel. Choose an edge profile that suits your style and the overall design of your space.
With a little careful planning and measurement, you can easily shop for counters that will elevate your kitchen or bathroom to new heights.