How to Measure Countertops: A Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrading your kitchen or bathroom is exciting, but one crucial task needs your attention before you dive into choosing colors and finishes: measuring your space for new countertops. At Planet Stone, we've helped thousands of homeowners and contractors across Los Angeles get the perfect fit, and we're here to share our expert insight on exactly how to measure countertops correctly.

Whether you're researching DIY countertops or preparing to work with a professional installer, accurate measurements are the foundation for a smooth and successful installation. Proper planning ensures that your Planet Stone countertops are perfectly cut and crafted. No guesswork, no surprises. Let's walk through the tools, processes, and key things to remember when measuring for your new countertops.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Precise countertop measurements ensure:



• A seamless fit with minimal on-site adjustments
• Accurate pricing for materials and installation
• A quicker, more efficient installation day

Even minor miscalculations can result in delays, additional costs, or wasted materials. Precision isn't just preferred for custom-fabricated stone products like quartz and granite—it's essential.

What You'll Need

Before you begin measuring, gather these tools:

• A tape measure (preferably 25 feet)
• Graph paper or a printed kitchen layout plan
• Pencil and eraser
• Calculator (optional but helpful)
• Ruler or straight-edge

How to Measure Countertops in 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Sketch Your Layout

Start by drawing the basic shape of your kitchen or bathroom countertop area on graph paper. Label all key sections like sinks, appliances, backsplash areas, and edge lengths. Be sure to note any wall boundaries or unique features your new countertop will need to navigate.

Step 2: Measure the Lengths

Measure the length of each section from end to end and record the numbers on your drawing. If your kitchen has corners or L-shaped counters, break those into separate rectangles for easy measuring.

PRO TIP: Write measurements in inches for consistency, and round up to the nearest inch if unsure.

Step 3: Measure the Depth

A standard countertop depth is typically 25½ inches, but custom setups can vary. Measure from the back wall to the front edge to capture the actual depth. Be sure to include any overhangs or desired stylized edges in your final dimensions.

Step 4: Account for Cut-Outs

If you already know where your sink, cooktop, or other built-in features will go, mark those areas on your layout. Note the exact location, width, and depth. This helps the fabrication team plan for precise cut-outs in your stone slab.

Step 5: Calculate the Square Footage

To estimate how much material you'll need, multiply the length by the depth for each section to calculate the square inches. Then, divide the total by 144 to convert to square feet.

Example:

60" (length) x 25.5" (depth) = 1,530 square inches

1,530 ÷ 144 = 10.6 square feet

Don't worry; we'll verify these numbers for you if you're requesting pricing for Planet Stone countertops. However, having an initial estimate helps streamline your quote process and speeds things up on our end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to include backsplashes or edge overhangs
• Measuring without a flexible tape (rigid rulers can curve improperly)
• Overlooking wall irregularities or out-of-square corners
• Rounding down measurements instead of up
• Not allowing for sink and stove cut-outs

Are you not quite confident in your measurements? That's okay! Even if you've started down the DIY countertops path, our professional team at Planet Stone is happy to take precise in-home measurements during your consultation.

Why Choose Planet Stone?

Since 2005, Planet Stone has served the Los Angeles area with top-quality countertops, including granite, quartz, marble, and more. Our pricing starts at $45.99 per square foot for prefabricated granite, making luxury surfaces more accessible than ever.

Planet Stone countertops can be custom-fabricated from kitchens to commercial spaces to fit your space, style, and needs. We specialize in a wide range of stone products, including:

• Kitchen countertops
• Bathroom vanity tops
• Bar tops
• Tabletops
• Fireplaces
• And more!

Final Thoughts

Whether you're embarking on a full renovation or just freshening up a single counter, learning how to measure countertops correctly is a smart first step. From simple DIY countertop projects to full custom installations, proper planning saves time, money, and headaches.

At Planet Stone, we're proud to help our customers every step of the way, from the initial measurements to flawless, final installation.

Contact Planet Stone today to learn more about how we can help you measure your space for new countertops.

Your dream space starts with a perfect measurement. Let Planet Stone help you get there!

Helpful Links:

- Learn more about all our Services

- Get inspired with our Inspiration Gallery

-Check out our page on Countertop Edge Details