Countertops Phase|Step 5 of 33
Evaluate Current Counters
Countertops have the biggest visual impact in a kitchen. Assess whether yours need replacing or can be refreshed.
Time Required
30 minutes
Cost
$0
Difficulty
Very Easy
Signs You Need New Countertops
- Deep stains that won't come out: Wine, oil, or rust stains set into the surface
- Burn marks or heat damage: Especially common with laminate
- Chips, cracks, or missing pieces: Structural damage that can't be repaired
- Dated pattern or color: 1990s speckled laminate or outdated tile
- Seam separation: Visible gaps where countertop pieces meet
- Delamination: Laminate peeling away from substrate
Signs You Can Keep Them
- Solid surface (Corian): Can be sanded and refinished
- Natural stone in good shape: Granite/marble can be resealed and polished
- Neutral color: White, gray, or beige that works with updates
- No structural damage: Just surface wear or minor scratches
- Good edges: No chips or major wear at edges
Countertop Material Comparison
| Current Material | Can Refresh? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Laminate | Rarely | Can paint, but results vary |
| Tile | Sometimes | Can regrout, paint, or resurface |
| Granite | Yes | Professional polish and reseal |
| Quartz | Yes | Usually just needs deep cleaning |
| Butcher Block | Yes | Sand and refinish with oil |
Pro Tips
- •Consider the backsplash: New counters often mean new backsplash. Factor that into cost.
- •Check under the sink: Water damage under counters may require replacement regardless of surface condition.
- •Live with the color: Bring samples home. What looks good in the showroom may not work with your cabinets.
- •Budget reality check: Counters are 30-35% of a typical kitchen update budget.