10 Things To Consider Before Replacing Kitchen Countertops

Whether you’re updating a few things or planning a full kitchen remodel, you’ll find that replacing kitchen countertops requires careful planning. After all, it serves as your primary work surface and a decorative feature that pulls the whole design together. Therefore, kitchen surface upgrades aren’t as simple as trading the old countertop with something prettier or more stylish. 

Master Remodelers can walk you through an expert kitchen remodel in Knoxville, TN. We listed 10 things that should influence your countertop decisions below. 

Consider These 10 Things Before Replacing Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen remodels can yield a high return on investment for homeowners. However, you must meticulously strategize the process from start to finish. Professional countertop renovation is among the most significant yet overlooked services. 

You want your countertop investment to look pristine for as long as possible. However, you must keep up with its maintenance and ensure it fits your culinary needs. The following considerations can help you avoid future regrets. 

#1. Current Aesthetic Features That Will Stay the Same

Many homeowners find kitchen renovations enjoyable because of the myriad of design aspects they can experiment with and change. Your countertop is one of those features. However, a material or layout that catches your eye may not blend well with other design features. 

For example, you might have elaborate custom cabinetry. Its bright paint color and designs on each door make it a testament to your impeccable taste. You might feel tempted to choose an equally elaborate custom countertop replacement. 

Doing so might throw off the whole design’s balance. You need more muted, understated elements to counter the attention-grabbing ones. Combining two ornate elements that demand space could make your kitchen look too busy. 

In addition to cabinetry, you should also assess the following features:

• Flooring
• Backsplash 
• Lighting design
• Other, more flexible decorative elements like wall art and knick-knacks

#2. The Budget

Upgrading your kitchen is all fun and games until you exceed your budget. It’s essential to consider the expenses of every kitchen renovation, from countertops to kitchen flooring, as this can significantly impact your overall renovation expenditure. A modern kitchen surface installation service can rack up a high price tag, especially when choosing quality materials and a reputable remodeling company. However, selecting cheap products and services can get you in trouble in the long run.

Establish what you can spend on materials and services long before shopping. Choose the best your budget can buy to ensure the new countertop lasts. 

#3. Plumbing Fixtures

Your sink may or may not integrate with the new countertop, depending on how it sits on the surface. If you choose a material, thickness, and layout that resembles the old countertop, you won’t have to worry about this concern. However, exploring new materials and measurements might require a new kitchen sink. 

If you have to replace your sink, you will probably purchase new faucets and hardware. Leave room in your budget for sink installation to keep your kitchen upgrades on track. 

#4. Your Current Countertop Setup

How does your countertop layout currently look? What changes would you make with a new countertop? An attractive perk of surface replacement is that you can shift the layout for better synergy. 

For example, you might want your refrigerator or stove in a different area. You can design your new counter surface to accommodate those changes. Your budget should allow for outlet installations under this circumstance. 

Some other changes that might interest you include:

• Adding an island or peninsula for more space
• Choosing a different surface material in one section for specific cooking tasks
• Making the counter space for a cozier, more compact design 

#5. How You’d Like To Change Your Countertop

Homeowners replace countertops for one of two reasons. Their old surface has become worn and unattractive, inspiring them to replace it with an identical one. Otherwise, they simply want a visual and practical upgrade because they dislike their current setup. 

If you fall into the second category, identify which aspects you want to change:

• Material: Granite and marble are natural stones that come with a hefty price tag. However, their longevity and timeless style make them a fantastic investment. Alternatively, explore man-made quartz surfaces. 
• Width: You might want a wider workspace in your kitchen. Determine how the measurement changes will affect the cabinetry. 
• Thickness: A thicker countertop might last longer and withstand more damage. 
• Aesthetics: Different stone cuts boast diverse visual appeals. Take your time when browsing available samples. 

#6. Your Maintenance Habits

Not all countertop materials are created equal. Some premium kitchen countertop options require more upkeep than others. For example, many homeowners crave marble, a classic, elegant stone known for its iconic beauty. 

However, marble has demanding maintenance requirements, including:

• Immediately cleaning spills and food residue
• Only using microfiber cloths and specific cleaning formulas
• Keeping the stone as dry as possible
• Time-consuming cleaning rituals

You might fare better with a granite countertop if you want a low-maintenance material that looks equally gorgeous and unique. 

#7. Functional and Decorative Aspects You’re Willing To Change

If you plan to make minimal changes, you should list what you will and won’t change. Countertop installation services can bring the drab, dreary, and overused to light. After all, nothing highlights rundown cabinets or appliances quite like sparkling new countertops. 

If you don’t want to invest in replacements, make room in your budget to tidy up a few aspects like:

• Appliances: If your refrigerator or stove still works perfectly, they could do with some cleanup. Wipe them down with appropriate cleaners to make them dazzle. 
• Cabinetry: Consider wiping down and repainting or restaining your cabinets to keep them up to par with other updates. Your remodeler might provide these services. 
• Plumbing fixtures: Even if your current sink will fit into your new countertops, will it add to the charm as it is? If you can’t polish it to a shine, consider a new one. 
• Decorative effects: You can dust and reset most decorative items to nicely offset your new countertops. 
• Tiles: Wall and floor tiles become grimy and dull with dirt and food residue. Ask your renovation service about professional tile cleaning and sealing to make them gleam alongside your new counter surface. 

#8. Whether Your Cabinets Can Support a New Countertop

Will your cabinetry support your new countertop’s weight? Plastic or laminate cabinets can only handle other lightweight surface materials. Research whether your current cabinets will uphold heavy materials like quartz, granite, or marble. Additionally, you may want to know if laminate cabinets can be painted.

If they can’t, reconsider your material options. You might decide to replace both cabinetry and surfaces. Otherwise, purchase a lightweight countertop that matches your cabinet’s capabilities.   

#9. Countertop Measurements

Replacing kitchen countertops requires precise measurements. Create a rough sketch of your current kitchen layout on paper. Label the following areas:

• Sink position
• Appliance cutouts
• Islands or peninsulas
• Uninterrupted countertop stretches

Next, measure each labeled section in your kitchen. Record the specs on the sketch. These measurements will help you and your remodeler find the perfect surface to accommodate preferred changes. 

#10. The Best Remodeler for the Job

Finally, a professional remodeler can assist you with the process. Well-connected service providers can access quality surface manufacturers and dealers. They’ll also strategize flawlessly to accommodate your desires. 

Plus, you’ll understand more about the considerations listed above. A reputable remodeling service saves you money, time, and stress through their expertise. 

Transform Your Kitchen Into a Masterpiece With Master Remodelers in Knoxville, Tennessee

Our team at Master Remodelers makes replacing kitchen countertops a simpler, more straightforward task. We’ll walk you through countertop material options and designs and point out other aspects you should consider. Call 856-458-0416 to begin your kitchen transformation in Knoxville, Tennessee. Learn more now.