How to Measure Countertops: An Easy Guide for Homeowners
Learning how to measure countertops for a quote is easier than most homeowners expect. You don’t need perfect measurements before contacting us. A tape measure, a simple sketch, and a few basic dimensions are enough to get started.
Understanding how to measure countertops is crucial for accurate quotes.
A tape measure, a simple sketch, and a few basic dimensions are enough to get started. Tops Countertops uses the measurements you provide to help build your quote, so they are valuable, but we don’t expect you to measure like a professional. Once your quote is signed, our team takes care of the precision with professional laser templating.
Even a hand-drawn sketch can be incredibly helpful. Measure the basic length and depth of each countertop section, show us where your sinks and cooktops are located, and we’ll take it from there. You don’t even need to calculate the total square footage. Our system will do that for you.
Knowing how to measure countertops can save you time and ensure accuracy.
Ready to measure? Our Kitchen Countertop Measurement Guide makes it easy to get started.
The 30-Second Version
This guide outlines how to measure countertops effectively.
Draw a simple overhead sketch of your countertops and measure the basic length and depth of each section in inches. Include islands, peninsulas, bar tops, and any other countertop areas you want included in your quote.
For sinks and cooktops, simply draw a circle in the approximate location and label it “Sink,” “Cooktop,” or “Bar Sink.” Take a few photos of the space, and you’re ready to send us your information.
You do not need to calculate the total square footage. Our estimating system will calculate it from the dimensions you provide.
That’s it. Your drawing does not need to look professional. We just need a good representation of your countertop layout and basic measurements.
From our experience, customers often think they need much more detailed measurements than they actually do. We recommend focusing on a clear layout and good basic dimensions because those details are the most helpful to our team when preparing your quote.
Learning how to measure countertops helps streamline the process.
Step 1: Draw Your Countertop Layout
How to Measure Countertops: Key Tips for Accuracy
Start by drawing a basic overhead view of the countertop areas. Think of it as a simple map of your space rather than a professional drawing.
If your kitchen is L-shaped, draw an L. If you have countertops along several walls, show each section. Draw islands and peninsulas separately so we can clearly see their size and location.
If you already have a cabinet plan that includes dimensions, you can send that instead of creating a new drawing.
Next, mark important features that affect the countertop layout. For sinks, cooktops, and bar sinks, there is no need to measure the opening or draw the exact shape. Draw a circle in the approximate location and label what it is.
This gives our team the information we need without making the measuring process unnecessarily complicated.
Step 2: Measure the Length and Depth
Taking the time to understand how to measure countertops leads to better results.
Measure the approximate length and depth of each countertop section and write those dimensions directly on your sketch. We recommend providing all measurements in inches.
For example, one countertop section might measure 96 inches long by 25.5 inches deep, while another may be 72 inches long. An island will typically have its own length and depth.
Measure each section individually rather than trying to combine the entire kitchen into one measurement.
Be sure to include any countertop areas you want included in your project, such as:
- Islands
- Peninsulas
- Bar tops
- Bathroom vanities
- Laundry room countertops
When thinking about how to measure countertops, consider all sections of your space.
- Desk areas
- Other separate pieces
The dimensions you provide are important because Tops uses your customer-supplied measurements when preparing your quote. We encourage you to measure as accurately as reasonably possible, but there is no need to worry about achieving fabrication-level precision.
Step 3: Square Footage Is Optional
As you prepare to learn how to measure countertops, remember the basics.
You do not need to calculate your total countertop square footage before sending us your measurements. Our estimating system will calculate the approximate square footage using the dimensions you provide.
If you would like to calculate it yourself, you certainly can. Use this formula:
Length in inches × depth in inches ÷ 144 = approximate square feet
For example:
96 × 25.5 ÷ 144 = approximately 17 square feet
You can repeat the calculation for each countertop section and add the results together.
Again, this is optional. Providing us with good length and depth measurements is what matters most.
Step 4: Take a Few Photos
Taking photos can enhance your understanding of how to measure countertops.
Photos are another easy way to help our team understand your project. Take a few pictures showing:
- The overall countertop area
- Islands and peninsulas
- Appliances
- Walls
- Anything unusual about the space
If you already know which countertop material, sink, faucet, cooktop, backsplash, or other selections you are considering, feel free to include that information as well. If you have not made those decisions yet, that’s completely fine.
Once your sketch, measurements, and photos are ready, you can email them directly to [email protected].
What Happens After Your Quote Is Signed?
Following these steps on how to measure countertops will simplify your project.
Your measurements give us what we need to understand and quote the project, but they are not the measurements used to fabricate your finished countertops.
After your quote is signed and the project is ready for the next stage, Tops Countertops will schedule a professional laser template.
Our team uses precision laser measuring technology to capture the detailed dimensions required for fabrication. The laser templating process allows us to account for walls, angles, corners, countertop shapes, overhangs, appliance openings, and other project-specific details.
This is why you do not need to worry about creating professional measurements yourself. Give us the best basic dimensions you can, and our team will take care of the precision when your project reaches the templating stage.
If you would like to see what happens after your quote, our Countertop Buying Guide walks through the countertop process, including selections, templating, fabrication, and installation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring Countertops
Common questions about how to measure countertops can clarify your process.
How accurate do my countertop measurements need to be?
Measure as accurately as reasonably possible because Tops uses the dimensions you provide when preparing your quote. They do not need to be precise enough for fabrication. Professional laser templating takes place after your quote is signed.
Do I need to calculate my countertop square footage?
No. Provide the length and depth of each countertop section, and our estimating system will calculate the approximate square footage for you. You are welcome to calculate it yourself if you want to be more detailed, but it is not required.
How do I show a sink or cooktop on my drawing?
Draw a circle in the approximate location and label it “Sink,” “Cooktop,” or “Bar Sink.” You do not need to measure the opening or draw its exact shape.
Should I subtract the sink or cooktop from my measurements?
No. Measure the countertop section normally and show us where the sink or cooktop is located on your sketch.
Can I send a cabinet plan instead of drawing my countertops?
Yes. If you already have a cabinet plan that clearly shows the layout and dimensions, send it along with your photos and any other project information you have.
What if my kitchen has an unusual shape?
Do your best to sketch the layout and provide the basic dimensions you can reasonably measure. Photos are especially helpful for unusual spaces. Complicated angles and other detailed conditions will be captured during the professional laser template after your quote is signed.
Even in unusual spaces, knowing how to measure countertops is key.
Ready to Get Started with How to Measure Countertops?
You do not need to overcomplicate measuring your countertops. A simple sketch, basic length and depth measurements, and a few photos can give our team valuable information to begin your quote.
By mastering how to measure countertops, you make the quoting process easier.
When you’re ready, schedule a countertop quote and send your sketch, dimensions, cabinet plans, or photos to [email protected].
Tops Countertops has been helping homeowners, builders, designers, and businesses throughout Western Washington since 1999, proudly serving communities throughout Thurston, Pierce, Mason, Lewis, Kitsap, and Grays Harbor counties.
Tops Countertops is committed to helping you with how to measure countertops accurately.