Countertop Estimation Guide: How to Measure the Square Footage of a Countertop

Planning to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom countertops? Accurate measurements are essential for getting a reliable estimate and ensuring a smooth installation process. This guide will walk you through the steps to measure your countertops effectively.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Graph paper or plain paper
  • Something to write with
  • Calculator

Step 1: Sketch Your Countertop Layout

Begin by drawing a top-down view of your countertop area. Include all sections such as:

  • Main countertop areas
  • Islands or peninsulas
  • Backsplashes
  • Appliances (sink, cooktop, refrigerator, dishwasher)
  • Walls and doorways

Step 2​: Measure Each Section

Here’s how to measure a countertop​: 

  1. On your sketch, separate the countertop into easy-to-measure sections, especially if your countertop has an L-shape, island, or other extensions.
  2. Measure the length and width of each section in inches.
  3. Multiply length by width to get the area in square inches.
  4. Divide the area by 144 to convert to square feet (sq ft).

Formula: (Length×Width)/144=Square Feet (sq ft)

Example Calculation for Section 1:

  • Section 1: 80″ (length) × 26″ (width) = 2,080 sq in
  • 2,080 ÷ 144 = 14.44 sq ft

Step 3: Account for Overhangs and Backsplashes

Overhangs:

Standard countertop overhangs are typically 1.5-2 inches. Include these in your measurements by adding the overhang depth to the width.

Backsplashes:

If you’re including a backsplash:

  1. Measure the length and height in inches.
  2. Multiply to get the area in square inches.
  3. Divide by 144 to convert to square feet.

Example:

  • Backsplash: 72″ (length) × 4″ (height) = 288 sq in
  • 288 ÷ 144 = 2 sq ft

Step 4: Calculate Total Square Footage & Finalize Your Notes

Add the square footage of all countertop sections, overhangs, and backsplashes to get the total area. 

Ensure your sketch includes:

  • All measurements labeled
  • Locations of appliances and fixtures
  • Notations for overhangs and backsplashes
  • Any special considerations (e.g., angled cuts, seam preferences)

Step 5: Get a Cost Estimate from Premier Granite & Stone

Once you’ve completed your measurements and sketch, contact Premier Granite & Stone for a personalized consultation. Our experts will review your information, answer any questions, and guide you through the next steps to bring your vision to life.

Not sure if your measurements are accurate? Struggling to estimate the square footage? No problem—we’re happy to help with that too.

Contact us today!

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