Remodeling Kitchen Countertops

• 1). Cook in your kitchen and make a point of noticing how you use the space. Would built-in features like cutting boards and trash chutes help? Do you need something tough and sturdy? Do your countertops get messy, making countertops that are easy-to-clean a good choice? Remember that you can use different countertop materials and heights in different areas, depending on how you use the space.
  
  
• 2). Clean the area. Remove all appliances and other items from your current countertops. Dust and clean the area thoroughly.
  
  
• 3). Measure the countertop area to determine how much countertop you are going to need.
  
  
• 4). Budget your countertop remodel. How much are you willing to spend?
  
  
• 5). Cross-check your list of wants and needs with the current countertop options. While stainless steel is expensive, it can take a beating and cleans up easily, which is why it's most often found in professional restaurant kitchens. Stone and concrete is expensive and can require regular maintenance, but it will last years and add value to your home. Wood has a rich and distinctive look, but installation and maintenance can be difficult. Tile and laminate are more budget-friendly options, but installation is difficult and time-consuming.
  
  
• 6). Ask the countertop seller to cut the countertop to your specifications. Discuss beveled edges and built-in features.
  
  
• 7). Remove the old countertop. Many old countertops are simply screwed into the cabinets and walls and can be unscrewed easily. Countertops that are glued onto the cabinets need to be loosened and pried off carefully using a putty knife.
  
  
• 8). Install the new countertop with the help of professionals or by doing it yourself. Heavy materials, like stone, are usually glued to the cabinets and held in place by weight.
  
  
• 9). Maintain the countertops by cleaning them regularly and sealing them, if necessary, with the type of sealant recommended for your countertop material.