How to Replace a Kitchen Countertop

Updating a kitchen countertop is easier than you think.

Tired of that worn, out-of-style countertop? Follow these tips for replacing a drab counter and get a whole new look for the kitchen.

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Materials and tools:

putty knife
combination square
pliers
wrench
utility knife
power drill (with spade and screwdriver bits)
caulking gun and caulk
jigsaw
safety glasses
new countertop (with pre-cut opening for sink)
masking tape
caulk or other adhesives

Steps:

Figure B (click to enlarge)

1. Measure for a new countertop by measuring the distance from the edges of the countertop to the edges of the sink trim. Transfer those onto a diagram so you can have the sink cutout pre-cut when buying the countertop.

2. Disconnect the drain line under the sink. If the faucet hardware is mounted to the sink or countertop, as opposed to being wall-mounted, then you'll have to turn off the water supply valves and disconnect the water supply as well.

Figure C

3. Take the utility knife and cut the caulk seams around the edges of the old countertop where it meets the wall and around the sink. Cut any glue, caulk or paint seals under the countertop. If the counter can be removed without taking out the sink, do so. Otherwise, disconnect the sink clips under the countertop, lift the sink out and set it aside.

Figure E (click to enlarge)

4. Have a friend help you pull out the old countertop. Clean up any debris and pull of wall covering behind the counter if desired.

5. Run a thick bead of caulk along the frame of cabinets to seal the new countertop in place. Set the new countertop into place and press firmly for a good seal. Reattach the screws that held the old counter to the cabinets to give the new countertop added stability.

Figure G

6. If you did not have the sink opening pre-cut, transfer the measurements you made earlier to the new counter.

7. Use the markings to line up the sink's retaining ring. Once you're sure the ring is in the desired position, tape it to the countertop and trace around the inside of the ring.

Figure I

8. Drill a hole for the jigsaw blade a few inches inside the lined area using a spade bit. Insert the jigsaw blade into the hole and go around the inside of the line you traced for the sink. To avoid scratching the counter, cover the feet of the jigsaw with masking tape and place masking tape around the area being cut out to avoid splintering the countertop.

9. Test-fit the sink in the hole. If it fits, run a bead of caulk around the opening and plop the sink into place. Reconnect the drain and faucet hardware (if necessary), trim away excess caulk and reattach the clips holding the sink to the counter.