How to Update Kitchen Counters
- 1). Organize your kitchen makeover plans. If you're planning a complete renovation, now is the time to deal with issues such as moving appliances, installing new cabinets and adding an island. when your new counters are in, it will be very difficult to change these features without disturbing the new countertops.
- 2). Evaluate your current countertops to decide if you want to completely replace them, or just give them a bit of a face lift. If you simply want to change the color or design of the counter, apply a faux finish. Clean and sand the countertops. Apply primer first followed by a solid coat of paint, or a faux finish such as marbling. Finish with several coats of a polyurethane sealer.
- 3). Select a material if you are completely replacing your current countertops. The most common choices for kitchen countertops are laminate, stone, tile, stainless steel, wood and solid surfaces such as Corian. Consider your functional needs. Stone is resistant to scratches and heat but must be sealed against staining. Tile must be sealed against stains as well, along the grout, though it can stand up to moisture and heat. A solid surface may crack when exposed to high temperatures, though it is resistant to stains and moisture. Stainless steel is one of the most durable surfaces in regards to stains, water and heat but can become dented. Laminate and wood are the most vulnerable and can be damaged by heat, moisture and stains.
- 4). Create a budget for your project. Compare this with the material that you are most interested in. Laminate and tile are the most cost-effective options, while stone and concrete are among the most expensive. You don't have to limit yourself to one material if you have a lot of counter space to cover. You could use a different material for certain work surfaces or to highlight a decorative kitchen island.
- 5). Create a floor plan of where your new counters will go. Mark the locations of corners and other spots where there may have to be a seam in the countertop. Measure the length and width of every area. Don't forget to measure sinks as well.
- 6). Purchase counters that match the specified measurements gleaned from your floor plan. Familiarize yourself with the material and installation requirements. If you are experienced with home improvement projects, you may be able to install the counters on your own. Countertop overlays that fit over your existing counters are available in some cases as well, for a much simpler installation process.
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