DIY Measuring Existing Cabinets for Laminate Counter Tops

Make an outline sketch of what the counter tops look like (fig.1). If the counter tops 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 counter top. If counter top 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 counter tops with odd angles or nonstandard widths may need to have a template made before the counter top can be manufactured and cut.

0"
Next to stove.

1/4"
Next to refrigerator.

3/4"
Exposed end of kitchen counter top.

1/2"
Exposed end of vanity counter top.

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

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


Measure Existing Cabinets DIY Help Home Laminate DIY Help Specifications Contact Us \| Links Site Map e-mail us :	Measuring Existing Cabinets Make an outline sketch of what the counter tops look like (fig.1). If the counter tops 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 counter top. If counter top 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 counter tops with odd angles or nonstandard widths may need to have a template made before the counter top can be manufactured and cut. Typical Overhangs for Counter Tops 0" Next to stove. 1/4" Next to refrigerator. 3/4" Exposed end of kitchen counter top. 1/2" Exposed end of vanity counter top. 1-1/2" Exposed end of island counter top, with no radius. 1/2" + Exposed end of island counter top, with radius. (example 6" radius; 6" + 1/2" = 6-1/2")	Click on photos to enlarge. Fig. 1 (Counter top measurements) Fig. 2 Fig. 3
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Measuring Existing Cabinets

Typical Overhangs for Counter Tops