How to Measure Laminate Countertops
Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, the first step in replacing kitchen countertops is to measure the existing installation yourself. Doing so allows you to compare prices on a point-by-point basis and to decide on the best way to get the job done. With the correct approach, measuring laminate countertops accurately is relatively simple, especially if you have a helper to hold the other end of the tape. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Make a top view (plan) sketch of the kitchen layout. Note the position of the sink and cook top.
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Measure the length of each counter section from the far edge to the opposite wall; add the thickness of the backsplash, and transfer the figures to your sketch. If you have an "L" shaped kitchen you have two sections to measure; if it's "U" shaped, there are three sections.
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Note the length and breadth of the island if applicable. Mark the dimensions down on the sketch.
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Hold the end of the tape measure against the vertical face of the backsplash, and make a note of the distance to the front edge of the counter; the standard factory manufactured post-formed top is 25.5 inches deep from wall to front edge.
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Installing a matching backsplash is part of the project. This is the 4- to 6-inch wide section of laminated board fitted flush against the back wall at right angles to the countertop. Measure the height from the top edge of the backsplash to the surface of the counter. The length of each backsplash section will match the length of its matching countertop. Mark the position of each backsplash section on your sketch, and label them clearly with the appropriate dimensions. Alternatively make separate dimensioned sketches of each section of backsplash.
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Measure finished laminate countertops in lineal feet. If you plan to have 45-degree corner-to-corner joints you must take the entire length of each section into account. If right-angle joints are called for, deduct the counter width from the length of each short leg. Mark the required joint position on the sketch with dotted lines and label them.
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Some kitchen installers quote countertops and backsplashes in square feet. Multiply total counter length by breadth in inches and divide by 144. Repeat for backsplashes. Add the totals together and round up to the next whole number; mark the sketch with both lineal measurements and square footages to give suppliers and contractors sufficient information for estimating purposes.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're planning to install the laminate countertops yourself, don't forget to obtain plumbing and electrical estimates.
References
- Photo Credit kitchen image by Ritu Jethani from Fotolia.com
