With so many amazing countertop materials and designs, getting some new kitchen countertops will transform the appearance and feel of your kitchen. You have many exciting and appealing countertop choices, but make sure you choose carefully and, above all else, ensure they are installed correctly to avoid costly issues in the future.
This guide serves the basic aspects of the countertop installation before and after the installation of countertops, along with choosing the right countertop!
Before Installing the Countertops
You’re ready to start now that you’ve chosen your ideal countertop. Next, how do you turn that sample countertop into the real thing for your kitchen? You won’t have to worry about the hardest parts, such as cutting and finishing the countertops. Working with your countertop fabricator can help move things along.
Make your space ready
Existing structures are used as the base for kitchen countertops. Countertops are often installed above appliances, cabinets, and drawers, for example, and it’s important to have these structures installed before installing countertops.
Remodeling your kitchen requires you to follow all the steps correctly. Ensure that all appliances and cabinets are in position, and then get the professionals in to add the kitchen countertops as one of your kitchen’s finishing touches.
Clean your kitchen area
Cleanliness and safety are also important considerations when preparing for countertop installation. Clean the kitchen and remove all unnecessary clutter to make it easier for installers to work. Don’t miss the cabinets, and sink section if your countertops are closer to those areas.
Hire the professionals
When it comes to installing new kitchen countertops, you must hire professionals. You want to tackle this job as a DIY project if you have extensive professional experience.
It is often necessary to measure slabs for countertops down to the tiniest fraction of an inch and to make small adjustments carefully to ensure that everything fits together correctly. Professionals with access to epoxy products and sealants will also hold your countertop to the highest standards.
Future-oriented thinking is also important. Imagine having your beautiful new countertops installed and then discovering a problem with your heating or plumbing. A professional air conditioner and heating contractor should therefore carry out pre-installation checks.
Disconnect and remove kitchen appliances
In most homes, the kitchen counter and appliances are combined. Putting these appliances in place of a countertop makes them more likely to break and puts the new counter at risk.
Furthermore, it will hinder the overall installation process, so it’s important to conduct an appliance disconnection and remove the following:
- Unplug and remove the refrigerator from the kitchen counter if it’s close to it;
- Take out the microwave and oven;
- Unplug your stove’s burners/system, then remove them;
- Disconnect any other appliances, such as the dishwasher.
It is then possible for you or the contractor to work freely. You will also save a great deal of time this way. If you wait until countertop installation day, you will be put through the unnecessary hassle.
You should therefore deal with all of this earlier in the day or the day before. In addition, it’ll save you money if you have a contractor remove cabinets and disconnect appliances.
Additional requirements
The laminate from the cabinets and countertops of the house needs to be removed:
- Securing any cabinets or islands is very important so they stay upright.
- During the installation, sinks, cooktops, and counter surfaces must be removed and moved out of the area.
- The cabinets and backsplash have been cleaned of all nails and screws from the previous installation and any dust or debris from the cabinet removal.
- Move any kitchen appliances near the installation area.
- There must be a level surface on all sides of the cabinets. Hiring a contractor is highly recommended when doing demolition or this type of work.
During the installation
After the installers arrive, focus on the area around the kitchen rather than the kitchen itself. In this case, installing your new countertops makes it easier for them to work.
Keep your kids & pets away
Construction workers often carry heavy items, and their vision is often limited when wading through the home, making them potentially dangerous for animals and children. You can take support from your relatives or friends to care for your children or pets for a few hours or days.
Protect your expensive appliances
If you have expensive appliances in your kitchen, keep them out. You don’t want your unique antique pieces covered with dirt or damaged. So it’s better to sort and safely tuck your expensive items away during the countertop installation.
Shield your vent and doorways
Keep your furniture and carpets clean if your kitchen opens to a living area. Cover your furniture with sheets or plastic covers to protect it. If your kitchen shares your hallway area, make sure to cover your hallway.
Which Countertop is Right for You?
Before installing kitchen countertops, you must decide what type of counters you want. Counters are usually permanent fixtures and greatly impact the kitchen’s look, so it is important to choose carefully. You can help by following these tips:
Shop Materials – Many different countertops have various colors, materials, patterns, and styles. Find one that matches your tastes and preferences by shopping around.
On Theme – Select a countertop style that complements the theme and look of your kitchen. Color or style should not match but blend well with the floor or cabinets. Look for inspiration in magazines and on websites.
Measurements – Placing an order for kitchen countertops requires precise measurements. Make sure you work with your countertop fabricator on this step so they can precisely measure how much material and what layout they need.
Conclusion
Once you finish the countertop installation, seal it, level it, dry it, and check for quality control! Wiring and fixtures are connected to the kitchen countertop installers as needed. If you have not done so, you can hire an electrician to reconnect the wiring. Also, the lead installer will discuss the ongoing care and maintenance instructions for your countertop material after the installation process. Based on your chosen material, you should know how to use and care for the countertops.
