Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

Replacing countertops in kitchen projects is manageable for a confident DIYer, but the outcome depends on accurate measuring, the right material for your use, and careful removal of the old surface. This guide walks through each stage so you can plan the job, avoid the common errors, and finish with a level, sealed countertop that fits your cabinets.

Measure and Choose the Right Material

Start by measuring each run of counter in inches, from wall to front edge, and note every corner, sink cutout, and cooktop opening. Add a 1-inch overhang at the front for the typical edge profile, and check whether your cabinets are level, since most installers set tops on the existing base cabinets. Material choice affects both the install method and maintenance. Laminate and solid surface are lighter and easier to handle alone, while granite and quartz are heavy and usually need two or more people and a professional fabricator for templating and cutting. For a broader look at options, see Types of Kitchen Countertops: Materials, Costs and Care Compared.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Kitchen Countertops Quartz vs Granite: Which Is Better for Your Kitchen?.

Remove the Old Countertop Safely

Shut off the water supply to the sink, disconnect the supply lines and drain, and disconnect the cooktop if it is built into the surface. Then work through these steps: For a deeper look, Replacing Kohler Kitchen Faucet Cartridge: 3 Best Picks (2026) covers this in detail.

  1. Remove drawers and doors from the base cabinets so you can reach the mounting screws.
  2. Locate the screws that fasten the top through the cabinet rails, usually from inside the cabinet.
  3. Run a utility knife along any caulk or adhesive between the top and the backsplash.
  4. Lift the old top with a helper, keeping it upright to avoid cracking the sink area or breaking the backsplash.
  5. Scrape the cabinet frame clean and check it for water damage, soft spots, or loose joints before proceeding.

Install the New Countertop

Dry-fit the new top before applying any adhesive. Check that it sits flush against the wall, that the overhangs are even, and that the sink and cooktop openings line up with your plumbing and gas or electric connections. Once it fits, set the top on a bed of construction adhesive or the adhesive the manufacturer specifies, shim as needed to level it, and secure it from below using the mounting brackets or clips supplied with the top. Confirm level in both directions before the adhesive sets, and seal the seam between the top and the backsplash with a flexible silicone caulk.

Watch for These Details

  • Seal natural stone and some engineered surfaces before use, following the manufacturer’s care instructions.
  • Allow adhesive to cure fully before loading the counter with appliances or heavy items.
  • Reconnect the sink and faucet only after the top is secured, so the weight does not stress the plumbing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Measuring once and cutting without checking for out-of-square walls, which can leave gaps.
  • Forgetting the sink and faucet hole positions before ordering a custom top.
  • Trying to lift a stone slab alone, which risks injury and breakage.
  • Skipping shims, which can leave the surface rocking or cause cracks over time.
  • Ignoring the backsplash, which may need trimming or replacement to fit the new top.
  • Digital level helps you confirm the top is flat across its length and width during install. View on Amazon
  • Construction adhesive in a caulk gun gives you a controlled bead when bonding the top to the cabinet frame. View on Amazon
  • Plastic shims let you fine-tune the height and level of the top before it is fastened. View on Amazon

FAQ

Can I replace a kitchen countertop myself?

Many laminate and solid surface tops are within reach of a careful DIYer with a helper. Heavy stone usually calls for a professional fabricator and installer, especially for templating and cutting the sink opening.

How long does a countertop replacement take?

Removing the old top and preparing the cabinets can often be done in a day, but custom stone typically needs a fabrication lead time before installation. Plan for the template and fabrication stages separately from the install itself.

Do I need to replace the backsplash too?

Not always. If the backsplash is sound and the new top sits flush against it, you may only need to re-caulk the seam. Replace it if it is damaged, loose, or no longer fits the new height and depth.

Conclusion

Replacing countertops in kitchen spaces comes down to careful measuring, the right material for your use, and a methodical removal and installation. Take your time with leveling and sealing, and the new surface will serve you well for years. For a material you are considering, consult a professional fabricator for heavy stone or any cutouts you are unsure about.

Ready to choose one?

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.