If you’re planning to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom with the best countertops in Orlando, getting accurate measurements is crucial. Proper measurements ensure a seamless installation process and help you avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re working with granite, quartz, or marble, learning how to measure countertops correctly will save you time, effort, and money.
Don’t forget, if you’d rather have the experts handle everything—from measurements to installation, visit Edstone Inc is a best countertops Orlando for flawless results!
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of measuring countertops, highlight common pitfalls to avoid, and share some pro tips to make your project successful.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start measuring, assemble the following tools for accuracy and ease:
- Measuring Tape (preferably a 25+ ft tape for longer countertops)
- Laser Measure (optional for added precision)
- Pencil or Marker
- Notebook or Graph Paper (to note dimensions and sketch the layout)
- Calculator (to compute square footage)
Gathering these tools beforehand will make the measuring process smooth and hassle-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Countertops
Step 1: Create a Sketch of Your Space
Start by drawing a rough sketch of your countertop layout. Label each section (e.g., “A,” “B,” “C”) and include the sink cutouts, appliances, and any areas requiring special accommodations. Accuracy isn’t critical for the drawing, but it should represent your layout clearly.
Step 2: Measure Length and Width
Using your measuring tape:
- Measure the length of each section of countertop. Write down the measurements in inches.
- Measure the width (from front edge to the back wall or backsplash) of each section. Standard countertops are usually 25 inches deep, but always double-check.
Pro tip: Include .75 – 1 inch of overhang where the countertop edge extends beyond the cabinets.
Step 3: Account for Cutouts
If your countertops will include cutouts (e.g., for sinks or stovetops), measure the dimensions of these areas carefully. Subtract the square footage of the cutouts from the total to get an accurate estimate of the overall material needed.
Example: For a rectangular cutout, calculate the length x width and subtract this from the total area.
Step 4: Calculate Total Square Footage
To determine the total amount of countertop material required:
- Multiply the length by the width (in inches) for each section to get the square inches.
- Divide the total square inches by 144 to convert to square feet.
- Add together the square footage of all sections to find the total.
For example:
- Section A = 120 in x 25 in = 3,000 sq in. ÷ 144 = ~20.8 sq ft.
- Section B = 84 in x 25 in = 2,100 sq in. ÷ 144 = ~14.6 sq ft.
- Total = 20.8 + 14.6 = ~35.4 sq ft.
Step 5: Double-Check Measurements
Revisit each section and double-check your numbers. Also, ensure that your measurements align with any appliances or cabinetry present in the space.
Step 6: Consider Extra Material
Always estimate 10–15% extra material to account for cutting waste, especially if you’re working with natural stone, which can have unique edges or patterns that require precise alignment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Ignoring Cutouts
Forgetting to measure sink or stovetop cutouts can result in ordering too much or too little material. Always factor these cutouts into your calculations.
Mistake 2: Not Measuring in Inches
Most countertop materials are sold in square footage, but measurements often begin in inches. Ensure you convert your measurements to accurately align with your supplier’s requirements.
Mistake 3: Overlooking Overhangs
Omitting overhangs can lead to counters that feel too short or don’t align properly with cabinets. Plan for a consistent overhang, usually 1 inch, for a polished finish.
Mistake 4: Not Allowing for Backsplashes
If your countertop design includes backsplashes, measure these separately and add them to your total material estimate.
Mistake 5: Skipping Measurement Confirmation
Mistakes happen, but not double-checking your work can lead to expensive errors once the material is cut or installed.
Pro Tips for Accurate Countertop Measurements
- Opt for Laser Measures: For larger kitchens or flexible tape concerns, a laser measure tool can provide precision in seconds.
- Leave Complex Layouts to Experts: If your kitchen layout is irregular with angled corners or unique shapes, reach out to professionals like Edstone Inc.. Their experience ensures accurate measurement and perfect fitting.
- Label Sections Clearly on Your Diagram: Assign letters or names to each section (e.g., “Island,” “Stovetop Area”) for easy communication with your countertop provider.
- Use a Square Footage Calculator: To save time, use tools like Edstone Inc.’s Square Footage Calculator to streamline your calculations.
Achieving a Professional Finish
Accurate countertop measurements are the first step toward achieving a stunning kitchen or bathroom. With precision and preparation, you’ll reduce errors, save costs, and ensure a seamless installation.
Looking for the best countertops in Orlando? Edstone Inc. offers custom countertops made from premium materials. Whether you’re interested in granite, quartz, or marble, their team will handle everything—from measurement to installation—in just 5–7 days.