How to Measure Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are popular hard-surface options in many kitchens.

Granite is a beautiful, long-lasting countertop surface and common in many homes. Yet, despite its resilience and strength, it might be time for an update in your kitchen. Replacing granite countertops or any other countertop surface begins with measuring. While the labor required to replace any kitchen element is intensive, the measuring is the easy part and a necessary one in order to make reliable estimates on materials and labor for removal and replacement. Regardless of the material of your current counter, the measuring process is identical.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Draw a diagram of your kitchen. You do not need to be an expert to do this. Use a pencil and paper and draw a rough estimate of your kitchen countertop space. You will use this diagram to write in measurements and figure out the surface area.

2. Measure the length of the countertops. Begin at one end of a countertop. Run the tape measure down the center of the countertop from one end to another. Write that measurement down, and fill in the section of the sketch with that measurement. Repeat this process to determine the length of congruent countertops in the kitchen.

3. Measure the width of the countertop. Run the tape measure from the backsplash or wall to the edge or overhang of the countertop. Write this measurement down and fill out that portion of the sketch. Repeat this process for each countertop area.

4. Account for the backsplash. With solid-surface countertops, a backsplash is attached to the surface or the counters affixed to the wall without a backsplash. If you have a backsplash, measure the length and width of each section of the backsplash in the same way as you measured the counter tops. Write these measurements down, and fill out the measurements on the sketch.

Tips & Warnings

• Include measurements for sinks and any items built into the countertops. The measurements determine square footage and the cost of materials, and need to be cut out in replacement counters.

• Do not include measurements for a range if the range is a standalone appliance.

• For oval-shaped islands or counters, measure at the longest and widest points for accuracy.

References

• Marble and Granite Works: Measure Guideline
• Mississippi Marble and Granite: Countertop Diagram
• Mississippi Marble and Granite: Granite Countertops
• Home Depot: Project Estimation Worksheet