Replacing Kitchen Counters? Here’s 7 Key Factors to Consider
Your kitchen counters do more than complete the look of your kitchen—they serve as daily workstations for meal prep, clean-up, and your household’s unique routines. From family breakfasts to late-night snacks, they endure spills, scratches, heat, and constant use. Even the most durable materials eventually show their age. Replacing your kitchen counters can transform your space and restore functionality without a full renovation. But before you dive in, there are some key considerations to keep in mind.
Photo: Lisa Lake Photography
7 Things to Know Before Replacing Kitchen Counters
1. Understand Your Existing Kitchen Counter Material
Before anything else, take a moment to identify what material your current kitchen counters are made from. This will guide both the removal process and what replacement materials will work best. Laminate and solid surface materials, for example, are usually secured with screws and adhesives, making them relatively straightforward to remove. If your current surface is tile, it may require more labor to demo cleanly.
Natural stone, including granite and marble, presents a unique challenge. Though beautiful and durable, these materials can develop fissures, chips, or permanent stains over time. When this happens, repair options are limited. If the damage is significant or affects the structural integrity of the stone, replacement may be the more logical—and aesthetically pleasing—choice. Be prepared for some heavy lifting and professional handling when dealing with solid stone.
2. Ensure Cabinet Compatibility with New Kitchen Counters
It’s easy to focus solely on the kitchen counters and overlook what lies beneath. However, cabinetry plays a critical role in supporting your new surface—especially if you’re switching to a heavier material. Granite, quartz, and concrete all carry substantial weight, and not every cabinet base is built to support them. Reinforcements may be required, particularly in older homes or kitchens with non-standard installations.
If you’re also considering replacing your cabinets down the road, it may be worth coordinating both projects. Designer John Petrie, CKD, former president of the National Kitchen and Bath Association, advises that installing stone countertops now could make future cabinet replacement more difficult or costly. Some installers may not be willing to remove an existing stone top due to the risk of breakage. When investing in a high-end surface, it’s important to think ahead.
3. Consider Plumbing Impacts When Updating Kitchen Counters
Your sink and faucet arrangement is another area where kitchen counter changes can cause ripple effects. Moving from tile to stone, for instance, usually requires switching out a top-mounted sink for an undermount version. This shift not only affects sink placement but also influences how faucets, soap dispensers, and garbage disposals are configured.
Undermount sinks create a seamless aesthetic but require precise cutouts and secure mounting. Older plumbing fixtures may not align with the new sink configuration, making faucet replacement necessary. And since garbage disposals aren’t always easy to uninstall and reinstall, be prepared for added complexity during this phase. In many cases, it’s wise to upgrade plumbing components in tandem with the kitchen counters to avoid compatibility issues.
4. Coordinate Your Kitchen Backsplash with New Kitchen Counters
A common oversight in kitchen counter replacement is the backsplash. These two design features are often closely integrated, and replacing one frequently means replacing the other. Since the backsplash typically sits directly above the kitchen counter, removing the countertop can damage or dislodge it.
If your goal is a clean, polished look, this is the ideal time to reassess your backsplash material. Whether you choose classic subway tile, bold patterned ceramic, or a seamless quartz continuation, aim for cohesion in tone and texture. Planning ahead ensures that the kitchen counter and backsplash complement each other, visually and functionally.
5. Review the Condition of Appliances Around Your Kitchen Counters
Upgrading kitchen counters can breathe new life into your kitchen—but not if it clashes with old, worn appliances. Think of the countertop as a stylish jacket. Now imagine pairing it with shoes that have seen better days. While cosmetic, the visual mismatch can detract from the entire kitchen’s appeal.
That said, if your appliances are relatively new or in good condition, there’s usually no need to replace them. Built-in elements like cooktops can be removed and reinstalled, provided the base cabinet dimensions stay the same. Just make sure the cutout in your new countertop is measured precisely, and have a professional handle any appliance adjustments to preserve warranties and ensure safety.
6. Evaluate Lighting Conditions for Your Kitchen Counters
Kitchen counters don’t just affect how your space functions—they also impact how it feels. One often-overlooked factor is lighting. Under-cabinet lighting is a helpful feature, but it can pose challenges during a countertop swap. Wiring may need to be disconnected and reinstalled, and light placement must be adjusted for the new counter height or reflective surface.
Stone surfaces with a polished finish can cause glare if lights are too intense or poorly positioned. Matte finishes, while less reflective, can reduce brightness. Balance task lighting with ambient lighting, and work with a designer to evaluate how your lighting interacts with the new surface. Comfort and visibility are just as important as aesthetics.
7. Choose Quality Kitchen Counter Materials and Professional Installation
Not all kitchen counters are created equal. Prefabricated stone slabs, while economical, come in limited styles and standard dimensions. These are designed for common cabinet depths and may not accommodate custom layouts or irregular walls. Seams may appear in less-than-ideal places, and installation might require modifications that compromise the overall design.
Custom-fabricated kitchen counters offer better precision, higher-grade materials, and the ability to tailor every cut to your space. Partnering with a professional team ensures that your investment is handled with care. From selecting the right material to ensuring perfect installation, skilled fabricators and designers can make all the difference.
Photo: Lisa Lake Photography
Start Your Kitchen Counter Project with a Solid Plan
Replacing your kitchen counters is more than a quick fix—it’s a design decision that shapes how your kitchen functions and how it’s perceived. It’s an opportunity to refresh your home’s style, improve durability, and invest in everyday ease. By thinking through layout, lighting, cabinetry, appliances, and installation details, you can avoid surprises and create a result that’s both beautiful and lasting.
Kitchen Counters in Easton, PA
At Laslo Custom Kitchens, we specialize in replacing kitchen counters as well full kitchen remodels in Easton, PA and the surrounding Lehigh Valley, PA. With decades of experience and an eye for thoughtful design, our team works closely with homeowners to plan, design, and deliver kitchen upgrades that meet today’s standards and tomorrow’s dreams.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us for a consultation or explore our project portfolio online. Follow us on Instagram or like our Facebook page to see how we turn visions into realities—one kitchen at a time.
Further Reading
“Is it Possible to Replace Countertops While Keeping Your Old Cabinets?”
“How an Expert Renovator can Help You Update Parts of Your Kitchen without Destroying the Rest”
“Financing Your Kitchen Remodel”
FAQ: Kitchen Counters
1. What type of countertop material is best for my kitchen?
The best material for kitchen counters depends on your cooking habits, design preferences, and budget. Quartz is a top choice for its durability and low maintenance, while natural stone like granite offers timeless elegance and uniqueness.
2. How much do kitchen countertops cost?
Kitchen counters typically cost between $40 and $150 per square foot, including installation. Pricing depends on the material selected, the size of the kitchen, edge treatments, and any custom fabrication needed.
3. What maintenance is required for different countertop materials?
Kitchen counters made from natural stone, such as granite or marble, require periodic sealing to protect against stains and moisture. Engineered surfaces like quartz or solid surface materials are non-porous and easy to clean with just soap and water.
4. How durable are various countertop materials?
Most kitchen counters are designed to withstand everyday use, but some materials offer greater resistance to heat, scratches, and impact. Quartz and granite are particularly durable, making them ideal for high-traffic kitchens or avid home cooks.
5. Are certain countertop materials more eco-friendly than others?
Yes, there are environmentally responsible options for kitchen counters, such as recycled glass, reclaimed wood, and sustainably sourced materials. These choices reduce environmental impact while still offering style, strength, and functionality.