Installing a new countertop can refresh the kitchen and enhance your cooking activities. However, to compare the costs of countertop materials, such as laminate and granite, you'll need an accurate measure of the surface area of your countertop.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Measuring Length
Step 1. Count the number of sections of your kitchen table
You will need to measure each area separated by appliances, sinks, or other features. Don't forget to include each wall and table section in a separate section if you have one in your kitchen.
- When in doubt whether the table length is one or two sections, it is best to separate them to ensure the length is accurate.
- In the corner section, separate the piece into two perpendicular sections.
Step 2. Number the sheet of paper
Create three columns: one for length, one for depth and one third for area. When you get to the end of your measurements, you'll be able to add them together to find the surface area.
Step 3. Measure the length of the first section using a tape measure or tape measure
The length of the kitchen table is the long horizontal space between appliances. Be sure to measure the length from the wall to the edge of the table.
Step 4. Repeat with each section on your list, including the separate tables and the wall above the table
Part 2 of 3: Measuring Depth
Step 1. Measure the depth of the first section
Depth is the space between the edge of the table and the wall. Take measurements from the sides if there is a protective wall covering the wall.
Standard cabinets measure 24 inches (70 cm) and typically include 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) overhanging edges. You can use 25.5 inches (64.8 cm) as a depth measurement if you plan to install standard cabinets
Step 2. Repeat with the remaining sections
This is especially important if you have irregular depths and a separate section in the middle. You can also use the standard 25.5 inches (64.8 cm) if you don't have a separate section in the middle.
Step 3. Write down the depth of the protective wall on the table four inches (10.2 cm) if you're not sure how deep you need to go
Be sure to record all depth measurements in the second column on your paper.
Part 3 of 3: Calculating Surface Area
Step 1. Multiply the length by the depth to get the area of each piece of the table
Step 2. Write down the area in the third column on your paper
This should be written in square inches.
Step 3. Add up all the square inches by adding the area of all the pieces together to one number
Step 4. Divide the number (in square inches) by 144 to get the number in square feet
Multiply this final amount by the retail price per square foot to find the cost of each type of countertop material, or give it to a sales representative to order materials.
