Tired of Your Outdated Kitchen? Here's How to Easily Replace the Countertops
Is your kitchen still stuck in the 1990s with faded laminate countertops and chipped ceramic backsplashes? Do you dream of waking up to a gorgeous, contemporary kitchen but dread the thought of a lengthy renovation? We've all been there. Thankfully, replacing your outdated countertops is an easy weekend project that can give your kitchen a major facelift.
In this post, we'll walk through the entire process of swapping out those dreary old countertops for stunning new ones. We'll cover choosing the right materials, prepping your kitchen, removing the existing countertops, installing the new ones, and adding perfect finishing accents. Follow our tips below and you'll be whipping up meals in your fresh, updated kitchen before you know it.
Picking New Countertop Materials for Your Kitchen
The first step is selecting a material for your new countertops. There are lots of options out there, so keep these factors in mind as you shop:
- Budget - Less expensive choices like laminate and tile cost $20-50 per square foot installed, while premium materials like quartz and granite run $80-150 per square foot.
- Durability - Materials like quartz and granite resist stains, scratches, and heat damage better than laminate.
- Maintenance - Quartz and granite are nearly maintenance-free, while materials like butcher block require sealing.
- Styles - Get creative with bold colors and patterns in materials like glass, concrete, and laminate.
Once you settle on a material, order samples to view colors and textures in your space. Trust us, you'll know the right one when you see it!
Popular Countertop Material Options
Here's a quick rundown of some of the most popular options:
- Laminate - Affordable, stain-resistant, and available in countless colors and patterns.
- Granite - Elegant natural stone with unique speckled finish.
- Quartz - Even more stain and scratch resistant than granite.
- Butcher Block - Gorgeous wood finish requires seasonal sealing.
- Concrete - Industrial, contemporary look offered in different stains.
Preparing Your Kitchen for a Countertop Makeover
Once you've ordered your new countertops, it's time to get your kitchen ready for the installation process. Here are some tips:
- Clear off all appliances, accessories, and other items from existing countertops.
- Measure countertops and create a template to send to manufacturer.
- Purchase any tools, adhesive, caulk and accessories needed for installation.
- Turn off electricity, gas, and water supply lines to avoid leaks/damage.
- Cover floors, cabinets, and other surfaces with protective material.
Essential Supplies for DIY Countertop Installation
Make sure you have these supplies on hand before starting:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Safety goggles and gloves
- Utility knife
- Caulk gun
- Sandpaper
- Rags
- Adhesive/sealant
Removing Existing Kitchen Countertops
Taking out old countertops takes some elbow grease, but goes quicker with proper technique. Follow these steps:
- Use a utility knife to cut any caulk attaching countertops to walls/backsplash.
- Disconnect the sink, faucet, and any appliances incorporated in countertops.
- Unscrew countertop screws working in rows from one end to the other.
- Insert pry bar under front edge of countertop and gently pry upwards.
- Carefully lift off countertop section and remove. Repeat steps for each section.
Avoid Cabinets Damage During Removal
Removing old countertops risks damaging cabinets or walls if you aren't gentle. Take it slow and use painters tape on cabinets to prevent scratches.
Installing New Countertops in Your Kitchen
Once the old countertops are out, it's time for the fun part - installing the gorgeous new ones! Here is a simplified step-by-step process:
- Make any cutouts for sink or stovetop prior to installing.
- Dry fit countertops and make adjustments as needed for perfect fit.
- Apply adhesive evenly to cabinets per manufacturer instructions.
- Carefully lower countertop onto adhesive and press down firmly.
- Clamp sections together while adhesive dries.
- Reinstall sink, faucet, appliances and backsplash.
Tips for Seamless Countertop Installation
To ensure a smooth installation process:
- Work with a helper to maneuver heavy countertop pieces.
- Thoroughly clean all surfaces before applying adhesive.
- Use shims to level countertops and fill any gaps.
Finishing Touches to Complete Your Kitchen Upgrade
Once your sparkling new countertops are installed, add some finishing accents to complete your kitchen's transformation. Consider these quick updates:
- Add a fresh coat of paint to walls, cabinets, or trim.
- Swap out old cabinet hardware for modern brushed nickel or matte black.
- Replace a dated faucet with a sleek, contemporary model.
- Change the backsplash - try glass, metal, or marble tile.
- Upgrade lighting over countertops to LEDs.
Let Your New Countertops Shine
With your old countertops out and new ones installed, it's important to let any adhesive fully cure before using your kitchen. Follow manufacturer recommended curing times. Then style your updated countertops with pretty accents to highlight their sleek, fresh look!
We hope this guide gives you the confidence to tackle swapping out those outdated, worn-out countertops for gorgeous new ones all on your own. With the right materials and a little elbow grease, you can completely transform your kitchen in just a weekend. Get started today designing your dream kitchen oasis complete with stunning countertops that make you smile each time you walk in the room.