Instructions on how to measure existing cabinets for laminate countertops

Make an outline sketch of what the countertops look like (fig.1). If the countertops fit well and no adjustments are needed proceed as follows;
Using a good quality steel tape measure, make sure the tip is 90° to the blade (not bent). Take measurements along the wall of the existing countertop. If countertop butts into a wall put end of tape up against wall and take measurement on exposed end. If measuring between walls place end of tape in right corner with tip touching wall, measure out 24" and put pencil mark on wall (fig. 2), then put end of tape in left corner with tip touching wall and measure to pencil line (fig. 3), write down this measurement and add 24" (example 114-3/4" + 24" = 138-3/4"). As you get measurements write them down on the sketch you drew previously. Also make note of ends that get finished (capped) or may need a radius, etc. You also may need front cabinet measurements. This would apply to diagonal corner cabinets, angle-end base cabinets, etc. Sometimes countertops with odd angles or nonstandard widths may need to have a template made before the countertop can be manufactured and cut.

0"
Next to stove.

1/4"
Next to refrigerator.

3/4"
Exposed end of kitchen countertop.

1/2"
Exposed end of vanity countertop.

1-1/2"
Exposed end of island countertop, with no radius.

1/2"+ radius size
Exposed end of island countertop, with radius. (example 6" radius; 6" + 1/2" = 6-1/2")


Measure Existing Cabinets DIY Help Home Laminate DIY Help Tools Preparation Measure Existing Measure New Apply End Cap Apply End Splash Scribing Cutting Sink Hole Assemble Miters Fastening Caulking Care & Maintenance Specifications Contact Us \| Links Site Map e-mail us :	Measuring Existing Cabinets Make an outline sketch of what the countertops look like (fig.1). If the countertops fit well and no adjustments are needed proceed as follows; Using a good quality steel tape measure, make sure the tip is 90° to the blade (not bent). Take measurements along the wall of the existing countertop. If countertop butts into a wall put end of tape up against wall and take measurement on exposed end. If measuring between walls place end of tape in right corner with tip touching wall, measure out 24" and put pencil mark on wall (fig. 2), then put end of tape in left corner with tip touching wall and measure to pencil line (fig. 3), write down this measurement and add 24" (example 114-3/4" + 24" = 138-3/4"). As you get measurements write them down on the sketch you drew previously. Also make note of ends that get finished (capped) or may need a radius, etc. You also may need front cabinet measurements. This would apply to diagonal corner cabinets, angle-end base cabinets, etc. Sometimes countertops with odd angles or nonstandard widths may need to have a template made before the countertop can be manufactured and cut. Typical Countertop Overhang 0" Next to stove. 1/4" Next to refrigerator. 3/4" Exposed end of kitchen countertop. 1/2" Exposed end of vanity countertop. 1-1/2" Exposed end of island countertop, with no radius. 1/2"+ radius size Exposed end of island countertop, with radius. (example 6" radius; 6" + 1/2" = 6-1/2")	Click on photos to enlarge. Fig. 1 (Countertop measurements) Fig. 2 Fig. 3
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Measuring Existing Cabinets

Typical Countertop Overhang