Installing fresh countertops instantly elevates kitchen aesthetics and functionality. Yet achieving success requires accurate measurements of existing spaces down to 1/8th inch precision. With exact interior dimensions in hand, countertop specialists like the folk at Bedrock Quartz then customize pieces to fit your layout perfectly. Rather than risk disappointments from DIY mishaps, enlist an expert installer and arrive prepared with comprehensive measurements. Follow these steps to measure kitchens flawlessly.
Tools Needed for Precise Measurements
Gather these supplies before tackling critical countertop calculations:
- 25-foot retractable tape measure
- Metal ruler with etched 1/8th markings
- Pencil
- Notebook
- Laser distance measurer (optional but helpful for hard-to-reach spots)
- Countertop template kit (includes guiding straightedges)
Always double-check markings with two instruments to verify accuracy. Measure twice, order once holds especially true for custom countertops.
Sketch Your Existing Kitchen Layout
Start by hand-drawing your complete kitchen footprint, including all countertops, islands, peninsulas, sinks, stove, and existing backsplashes. Use exact measurements for cabinet fronts and appliance lengths when mapping your diagram. This sketch assists installers in understanding your space to calculate required cuts. Plus, any complex details like corners or built-in features get preemptively communicated.
Measure Countertop Perimeter Lengths
Working methodically around each distinct countertop section, carefully measure and record the perimeter length in inches. Partition off areas such as a stove top cutout or sink base separately. For basic straight countertop runs like around the kitchen perimeter, simply measure the overall start-to-finish length then the depth.
Remember, inside and outside corners double the perimeter length measurements. So a standard 36-inch corner base cabinet gains about 12 extra inches of countertop length wrapping around the bend. Account for overlaps when an existing backsplash slightly extends past the countertop edge.
Measure Cutouts Precisely
Cutouts for sinks, stove tops and other features demand meticulous box measurements. Record widths and lengths for rectangular openings like sinks along with any special curb or lip dimensions. For rounded cutouts, trace the outline on template paper and then measure key cross sections to capture angles accurately.
Don’t forget to measure faucet holes, soap dispensers, side splashes or other specialty cutout needs so fabricators perfectly customize openings.
Confirm Countertop Depths & Edge Styles
Beyond perimeter run lengths, carefully measure countertop depth from front finished edge to back wall across a few points. Standard depths run 25 or 26 inches, yet sometimes kitchen layouts have shallower dimensions. Communicate any variances, like corners or edges that require custom sizing.
Last, specify the front edge treatment desired whether modern straight edges, classic postform fronts, bullnose rounded profiles, or special ogee decorative trim.
Distinguish Separate Pieces Needed
To streamline fabrication, determine how many distinct countertop sections get installed. Consolidate single-slab lengths into groups; treat multi-slab areas needing seams as individual template requirements. This prevents overbuying materials and reduces fabrication time.
Align New Countertops with Existing Cabinets
Before finalizing measurements, check cabinets verify plumb ends and confirm consistent height levels across bases. Sometimes old cabinets shift over years of use. Any bowing or uneven cabinet fronts translate to unsalvageable countertop installations, so address alignment issues first.
Double-Check Totals
With all measurements complete, add up linear feet required per section, then multiply by depth to calculate overall square footage needed. Compare this with existing countertop totals as a second accuracy confirmation before submitting final numbers to fabricators.
Conclusion
Arriving fully prepared with precise existing countertop measurements enables flawless hand-crafted installations worthy of even the finest materials. So before daydreaming over sleek new quartz or natural stone surfaces, do the necessary groundwork conveying current layouts accurately. Your new counters then deliver on both upgraded form and problem-free function.
