Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

Removing kitchen countertops is a manageable project if you work in the right order. This guide walks you through how to remove kitchen countertops safely: shutting off utilities, disconnecting the sink and plumbing, releasing the top from the cabinets and lifting it out in one piece when possible. Expect the job to take a full day for a standard laminate top and longer for stone.

Before You Start: Measure, Mark and Shut Off

Start by confirming what you are dealing with. Laminate over particleboard is light and often breaks into pieces, while granite, quartz and solid surface tops are heavy and brittle. Measure the length and depth of each section and note where seams fall, since seams are often where the top is weakest and where it will separate.

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Turn off the water supply under the sink and the gas or electrical feed to the cooktop or dishwasher. If you are unsure how to isolate those lines, a licensed plumber or electrician should handle it before you touch anything. Clear the cabinets and the surrounding floor so you have room to maneuver.

How to Remove Kitchen Countertops, Step by Step

  1. Disconnect the sink supply lines, drain and faucet connections. Lift the sink out once the clips or mounting nuts are free.
  2. Disconnect the cooktop, dishwasher or garbage disposal only if they are attached to the countertop. Most appliances slide out after their connections are capped.
  3. Locate the fasteners. Most tops are secured from below with corner brackets, screws or adhesive. Check the cabinet interior along the back rail and at the corners.
  4. Remove the brackets and screws. Work from the inside of the cabinets with a drill or driver. Keep the hardware in a labeled bag.
  5. Cut any caulk or adhesive along the wall backsplash and the cabinet joint with a utility knife. Score the seam lightly so the top does not tear the drywall.
  6. Lift the top with two or more people, keeping it level. Lift from the cabinet ends, not the overhang.

Handling Stone and Heavy Tops

Granite and quartz slabs can weigh well over 100 pounds per section. Place a protective blanket on the floor, set the top face up on foam supports, and carry it on edge with two people per section. Many fabricators recommend cutting the top into sections with a diamond blade if it will not come out whole. If the top is set in construction adhesive, a few light taps with a rubber mallet along the seam can help break the bond.

Dealing With Adhesive, Caulk and Backsplash Trim

Old caulk and silicone bond tightly to both the countertop edge and the wall. Run a sharp utility blade along each joint before you pull. Remove backsplash trim or tile edging first so the top can clear the wall. If you plan to reuse cabinets, avoid prying against the cabinet face frame, which can split the wood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the water and gas shutoffs, which can flood or damage the room.
  • Lifting a stone top alone or without a level surface to set it on.
  • Prying hard against cabinets instead of backing out the fasteners first.
  • Forgetting to check for a backsplash or wall anchor that holds the top from behind.
  • Discarding the brackets and screws, which you will need if you reinstall or replace the top.
  • Cordless drill/driver: Backs out mounting screws quickly without stripping the cabinet holes. View on Amazon
  • Utility knife with replacement blades: Cuts through caulk and adhesive along the wall and cabinet seams cleanly. View on Amazon
  • Furniture moving blankets: Protect the top surface and floor during lifting and transport. View on Amazon

FAQ

Can I remove a countertop without damaging the cabinets?

Yes, if you remove the fasteners from inside the cabinets before lifting and cut the caulk along the joints first. Avoid prying against the face frames, which is the most common cause of cabinet damage.

How long does it take to remove a kitchen countertop?

A laminate top usually takes a few hours, including disconnecting the sink. Stone tops often take longer because they need extra people and careful handling.

Should I hire a professional to remove a granite countertop?

For heavy stone or any work involving gas or plumbing connections, consult a licensed professional. Fabricators and contractors can handle cutting and lifting safely.

Conclusion

Knowing how do you remove kitchen countertops comes down to shutting off utilities, disconnecting the sink, removing fasteners from inside the cabinets and lifting carefully with help. Take your time with adhesive and heavy stone, and keep the hardware so the new top installs smoothly. A few preparation steps now will protect both the cabinets and the surfaces you plan to reuse.

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Lauren Holland

About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen design & remodeling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.