For the homeowner who is not intimidated by a do-it-yourself renovation project, installing kitchen countertops should probably be feasible. If you have never done something of this magnitude, you will want to err on the side of caution – especially during the preparation part – as the amount of time and money you could end up wasting will be significant. However, since removing the countertops is half of the process, there are markers to gauge how successful your project will be. If you feel comfortable after the removal and prep period, you can decide to install the counters on your own. For a successful first part of a kitchen counter replacement project, follow these five steps.
1. Visit the counter supplier first. While you may naturally start to take measurements in your kitchen, it’s better to begin by consulting the counter manufacturer. Sometimes, the measurements they request will be different and you will have to start over again. Of course, it is a good time to ask for advice and make sure about the type of counters you have decided on.
2. Get the measurements right. When taking measurements for new counters, it is best to work with the cabinets’ dimensions as a blueprint. Draw a picture of the entire kitchen and mark down the width and depth of your cabinets, as well as the appliances that are located at either end of the counters (i.e. refrigerator, stove). For parts of counters that don’t end at the wall, you will need to make sure the finish is correct.
3. Handle the sink’s plumbing. Once you want to take out the counters, you need to shut down the water and disconnect the pipes. Removing the sink will be part of the job. It’s a good moment to look over the condition of the plumbing and see what could stand being replaced. If the sink itself is heavy, then it’s a good idea to take it out, even if it seems attached to the counters. It may just need to be pried or even cut loose.
4. Take off the countertops. If your sink it light enough that you can handle it along with the counters themselves, it can be left in until you take out the entire piece. In some cases, homeowners will find that whoever installed the original countertops had actually nailed them into place. Otherwise, they may merely be stuck and have to be wedged off. For the toughest projects, you will need to use a saw and cut them out.
5. Prep the cabinets. Once you have everything removed, it’s time to lay the groundwork for the new countertops. There are buildup strips that should be screwed in, allowing a certain amount material to hang off the edges. Next, you need to drill holes so the mounting screws have enough space to hold the countertops in place. You will then be ready for installation.
Before you start any home renovation project, check with the experts at Sears. Sears kitchen countertops come in so many different styles and price points that you are bound to find a solution for your home.