Countertop replacement is one of the most exciting projects a homeowner can undertake. You’ll be faced with endless choices when it comes to countertop materials, colors, textures, and edge treatments.
Although this can seem frustrating at times, just think of the rewards. The rewards will be plentiful not only in terms of quality time spent around your new countertops with the family, but also in terms of return on investment, especially if the countertop replacement is part of an overall kitchen remodeling project. kitchen.
Here are some helpful tips on how to select the right countertop for you.
1. BUDGET
The first thing you have to do is establish your budget. This will allow you to make better decisions about the type of material you can afford. Countertop products tend to be priced per square foot and can range from $5 to $300. While there may be materials that won’t fit your budget, keep in mind that many countertops can be replicated with less expensive options.
2. INVESTIGATION
Take your time shopping. You will need to consider all available options. Please look at screens and swatches to get an idea of color and texture. Compare 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 decor of the room you are remodeling.
Once you decide on the color, you will need to think about the material of the countertop. The most popular countertop options include laminate, solid surface, engineered stone, granite, marble, soapstone, and concrete countertops. For detailed information on the different types of countertop materials available, visit our Products section.
3. SCHEDULE
Assuming you’ve already selected your colors and materials and know what type of trim and backsplash treatment you want, now is the time to schedule an appointment with an installer. At the appointment, the installer will take precise measurements of your countertops. The installer will create a countertop template from craft paper and custom fabricate it to these specifications.
Cutouts for sinks and kitchens are made on site during installation.
4.INSTALL
After your countertop measurements have been taken, your installer will talk with you about scheduling a convenient time for your countertop installation. Set aside a whole day for this, because the job will take your kitchen out of commission for anywhere from a few hours to a whole day, depending on the size and difficulty of the installation.
It’s a good idea to clean the base cabinets before starting the job. This way, you will ensure that nothing breaks or gets dirty during the time your countertops are being installed.
After installation, the contractor will clean up all debris and inspect the countertop for flaws. Make sure you’re there for this process, because your installer will most likely take care of the regular care, maintenance, and warranty issues that come with your product. Most installers will also take care of getting rid of your old countertops.
Make sure this is included in the fee before hiring your contractor.