Guide to Countertops

Countertop replacement is one of the most exciting projects a homeowner can undertake. You will be faced with endless choices on countertop materials, colors, textures, and edge treatments.

Although this may seem frustrating at times – just think of the rewards. The rewards will be plentiful not only in terms of quality time you will spend around your new countertops with the family but also in terms of return on investment, particularly if your countertop replacement is part of an overall kitchen remodeling project.  

Here are some helpful tips on how to select just the right countertop for you.  

Countertop replacement is one of the most exciting projects a homeowner can undertake. You will be faced with endless choices on countertop materials, colors, textures, and edge treatments.

Although this may seem frustrating at times – just think of the rewards. The rewards will be plentiful not only in terms of quality time you will spend around your new countertops with the family but also in terms of return on investment, particularly if your countertop replacement is part of an overall kitchen remodeling project.  

Here are some helpful tips on how to select just the right countertop for you.  

1. BUDGET

The first thing you need to do is set your budget. This will enable you to better make decisions as to the type of material you can afford. Countertop products tend to be priced per square foot and can range anywhere from $5 to $300. Although there may be materials that do not fit within your budget, consider the fact that many countertops can be imitated with less expensive options. 

2. RESEARCH  

Take your time shopping around. You will need to consider all the options available. Look at displays and samples to get an idea of color and texture. Compare the samples to your existing cabinets, flooring and painted walls – this will give you a good idea of how the new countertop will match the existing décor of the room you’re remodeling.  

Once you decide on color you will need to think about countertop material. The most popular countertop choices include laminate, solid surface, engineered stone, granite, marble, soapstone and concrete countertops. For in-depth information about the different types of countertop materials available please visit our Products section.  

3. SCHEDULE  

Assuming that you’ve already selected your colors and materials and know what type of edge treatment and backsplash you want, now it’s time to schedule an appointment with an installer. At the appointment, the installer will take accurate measurements of your countertops. The installer will create a countertop template out of craft paper and custom-build your countertop according to these specifications.  

Cutouts for sinks and cook tops are made on-site during installation.  

4. INSTALL  

After your countertop measurements have been taken, your installer will talk to you about setting up a convenient time for countertop installation. Set aside a whole day for this, because the job will take your kitchen out of commission anywhere from a few hours to a whole day depending on the size and difficulty of installation.  

It is a good idea to clean out your base cabinets before the job begins. This way, you will ensure that nothing gets broken or covered in dirt during the time that your countertops are being installed.

After installation, the contractor will clean up all the debris and inspect the countertop for any flaws. Make sure you are there for this process, because your installer will, more than likely, address matters of regular care, maintenance and warranties that accompany your product.   Most installers will also take care of disposing of your old countertops.

Make sure this is included in the fee before you hire your contractor.