How To Measure Square Footage Of A Countertop

Measuring the square footage of a countertop is a crucial step when planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel. Accurate measurements ensure that you order the correct amount of material and avoid costly mistakes. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to measure square footage of a countertop:

Materials You'll Need:

Measuring tape
Pencil or pen
Paper
Calculator (optional)

Step 1: Determine the Shape of the Countertop

Countertops come in various shapes, such as rectangular, L-shaped, U-shaped, or irregular. Identify the shape of your countertop to determine the appropriate measuring method.

Step 2: Measure the Length and Width

For rectangular countertops, use the measuring tape to measure the length and width of the countertop. Record these measurements in feet or inches.

Step 3: Calculate the Area for Rectangular Countertops

Once you have the length and width, multiply them together to calculate the area. For example, if the length is 8 feet and the width is 3 feet, the area is 24 square feet.

Step 4: Measure the Lengths of the Sides for L-Shaped Countertops

For L-shaped countertops, measure the lengths of the two perpendicular sides. Label them as "Length A" and "Length B".

Step 5: Calculate the Area for L-Shaped Countertops

Multiply Length A by Length B to calculate the area of the L-shaped countertop. For instance, if Length A is 6 feet and Length B is 4 feet, the area is 24 square feet.

Step 6: Measure the Lengths and Width of the Sides for U-Shaped Countertops

For U-shaped countertops, measure the length and width of each side. Label the lengths as "Length A", "Length B", and "Length C".

Step 7: Calculate the Area for U-Shaped Countertops

Multiply each length by the corresponding width and add the results together to find the total area. For example, if Length A is 5 feet, Length B is 3 feet, and Length C is 6 feet, and the widths are all 2 feet, the total area is 40 square feet.

Step 8: Calculate the Area for Irregular Countertops

If your countertop has an irregular shape, you'll need to divide it into smaller, regular shapes. Measure and calculate the area of each smaller shape, then add them together to get the total area.

Step 9: Convert Measurements to Square Feet (Optional)

If your measurements are in inches, convert them to square feet by dividing the total area by 144 (the number of square inches in a square foot).

Tips:

Take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy.
Measure from the longest points of the countertop.
Include the overhang (if applicable) in your measurements.
Consider the location of any cutouts (e.g., for a sink or stovetop) when measuring.
If you're unsure, consult a professional for assistance.