How Much Countertop Do I Need? Measuring Square Footage
Published •5 min read
To estimate countertop square footage, measure each section's length and depth in inches, multiply them, add the sections together and divide by 144. Fixr notes most kitchens have about 30 to 40 square feet of countertop. Your estimate is for budgeting; the fabricator measures precisely when they template.
Step by Step
- 1Sketch the countertop from above and split it into rectangles (each straight run, the island, any peninsula).
- 2Measure each rectangle's length and depth in inches. Standard countertops are typically about 25 inches deep, according to Fixr, slightly deeper than the 24-inch base cabinets.
- 3Multiply length by depth for each rectangle.
- 4Add the results and divide by 144 to convert square inches to square feet.
- 5Add the island and any stone backsplash separately.
Worked Example
| Section | Size (inches) | Square inches | Square feet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Run 1 | 120 x 25 | 3,000 | 20.8 |
| Run 2 (corner overlap removed) | 71 x 25 | 1,775 | 12.3 |
| Island | 72 x 36 | 2,592 | 18.0 |
| Total | 7,367 | About 51 |
Don't Forget
- Backsplash: a stone backsplash adds area; Fixr prices a 4-inch granite backsplash by the linear foot.
- Waste and slab yield: fabricators work from full slabs, so you may pay for more stone than ends up on the counter.
- Cutouts for sinks and cooktops don't usually reduce the price; they're often charged separately.
Turning Square Feet Into a Budget
Multiply your square footage by a per-square-foot price, but check whether that price is material only or installed. See countertop cost per square foot for national ranges by stone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate countertop square footage?
Measure each section's length and depth in inches, multiply, add the sections together and divide by 144.
How deep is a standard countertop?
Typically about 25 inches, according to Fixr, slightly deeper than standard 24-inch base cabinets.
How many square feet of countertop does a kitchen have?
Fixr notes most kitchens have about 30 to 40 square feet; islands add more.
Is my measurement used to cut the stone?
No. It's for budgeting. The fabricator templates the installed cabinets precisely before cutting.
Get a Quote from Mega Solutions
Mega Solutions installs granite, quartz, quartzite and marble countertops, and also sells and installs cabinets. Send us your measurements and we'll prepare a personalized quote.
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