How to Choose the Right Countertop

Step One: Visit a dealer & select samples

Start by looking over the dealer’s displays and then choose about a dozen samples that fit your ideas as far as color and pattern. Ask about the other aspects of a new countertop too:

• What edge treatments are available? (The dealer should have samples to show you of the different options.)
• What material will the backsplash use? (A backsplash can be the same material as the countertop or can be made of, for example, ceramic tile).
• Are the laminates you’ve selected in stock or are they special-orders? (Special orders can add up to 10 days to your order time).
• Does the dealer offer fabrication and installation as well? Does installation include taking away the old countertops?

Step Two: Narrow down your options

Take a sample chip and tape on a wall cabinet at eye-level. Look at how the new countertop would look and contrast with the existing cabinets. Also be sure to look at how the new countertop will look with any other decorative elements, such as drapery, flooring or painted walls. Also be sure to look at the samples during the daylight hours and at nighttime – colors can change under different light.

If the new countertop is part of an overall kitchen remodeling project, be sure to compare it with the new cabinets, flooring, paint, etc. Most importantly, take your time with observing the samples. Be sure you’ve spent a week or more with the sample before you make a decision.

Step Three: Placing your countertop order

At this point, you’ve lived with your sample for at least a week and are comfortable it fits with what you had in mind. The next step is taking measurements and ordering the countertops. Some installers call measuring for countertops “templating” – they will measure the linear space but also suggest the best places to locate any seams in the countertops, etc. If your remodel includes new cabinets, these MUST be installed before the final measurements are taken and the countertop installed.

Step Four: Scheduling installation

Your countertops should be ready to be installed about three weeks after you’ve placed your order and the measuring has been completed. Remember, cabinets must be installed prior to final measurements are taken for your countertops.

Step Five: Get your countertops installed

This should be the quickest part of the process; installation of countertops usually takes about a day. If you’re remodeling the entire kitchen, make sure you have your new fixtures on-hand the day of the installation (such as your sink or a cook-top) The installer makes cutouts for these fixtures on-site during the installation. In order for the proper fit and installation, this step must be followed exactly. It’s also a good idea to clean out your base cabinets and arrange to have your old countertop removed (if it’s not included in the installation package).