How to Fit a Kitchen Worktop in 9 Steps

Fitting new kitchen worktops is a hugely satisfying task – as not only does it transform the look and style of the heart of your home, it is a great way to sharpen those DIY skills! Replacing countertops is a super simple way to make your kitchen more practical and add value to your home. We’ve put together a handy step by step guide on how to fit a kitchen worktop so you can tackle the job with ease. 

For the purpose of this guide, we’ve opted to focus on laminate or wooden kitchen worktops, as with a quartz or granite worktop we advise that you use a professional service. We have also made this guide focused on swapping old kitchen worktops with new, assuming the existing cabinets are staying in place. 

What tools and materials do I need to fit a kitchen worktop? 

Before you get stuck into the process of fitting your new kitchen worktops, you’ll need to make sure you have all the correct tools and materials to change a kitchen worktop. 

Tools for Fitting a Kitchen Worktop 

• Measuring tape
• Spirit level 
• Jigsaw or circular saw 
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Clamps 
• Pencil
• Work gloves and goggles 

Materials for Replacing Countertops

• Kitchen worktop
• Worktop connectors 
• Screws 
• Wood glue 
• Silicone sealant 
• Shims

Great you’ve got the kit, now time to fit! 

Make sure you choose a high-quality kitchen worktop that suits your kitchen style and meets your practical needs. Popular choices include granite, quartz, which are tricky to cut and fit but are built to last, whereas if you want to fit the worktops yourself, laminate and solid wood make life easier.

1. Measuring Up Your New Kitchen Worktops
   

   Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful kitchen worktop installation. Measure the length and width of your kitchen cabinets carefully, including any gaps for appliances like stoves and sinks. Once you have your measurements, plan the layout of your worktop, marking any areas for sinks and other fixtures.

   When you order worktops from an experienced professional such as Stone Synergy, laser templating is conducted which allows better precision and perfect fit. Every part of your kitchen worktop area will be measured and crafted for accuracy including any holes required for appliances.

2. Cutting a Kitchen Worktop
   

   Using a jigsaw or circular saw, cut the kitchen worktop according to your measurements. Take your time and use a straight edge to guide the saw for precise cuts. If your worktop requires cut outs for sinks or other fixtures, mark and cut those carefully as well.

3. Time to Test!

   Before attaching your new kitchen worktops permanently, give it a test fit to ensure it aligns correctly with the cabinets and fits snugly into place. Check for any gaps or uneven surfaces and make adjustments before you install your new kitchen worktop if necessary.

4. Get the Cabinets Ready
   

   Clean your kitchen cabinets thoroughly, ready for the kitchen worktop installation. It is also the perfect time to make any adjustments needed to ensure a level surface which you can check with the spirit level. If your cabinets are not level, use shims to correct any discrepancies, as a level surface is essential for a professional-looking installation and a practical kitchen work space.

5. Attach Worktop Connectors

   When you come to change a kitchen worktop, use secure worktop connectors along the top of the cabinets, evenly spaced along the length of the unit. These connectors hold the new kitchen worktop in place and provide stability when the kitchen is in use. Use some screws to attach the connectors securely when installing the kitchen worktop.

6. Apply Wood Glue

   Apply some quality wood glue along the edges of the cabinets where the kitchen worktop will make contact. This step will enhance the bond between the kitchen worktop and the cabinets for a stable finish and reduce the risk of any movement in the future.

7. Position Your Shiny New Worktops

   The all important task of lifting and positioning the worktop onto the cabinets is crucial and requires a pair of extra hands to make sure it all aligns perfectly with the edges. Once you are happy the new kitchen worktop is in position, secure it by tightening the connectors with a screwdriver.

8. Seal the Worktop Joints

   Kitchens are the busy heart of the home, so you’ll want to prevent water damage and ensure a clean finish by using a silicone sealant to seal the joints between the worktop and the walls or adjacent surfaces. Run the sealant along the edges and smooth it out with a caulking tool or your finger for a neat finish. This will ensure you avoid issues with water ingress from splashes and that your fitted kitchen worktops last for years to come.

9. Step Back and Admire Your Work!
   

   Time to look at your work and think’ WOW! What a difference!’ By replacing countertops, you will give your kitchen a new lease of life. Do a final once over for any gaps, uneven surfaces or imperfections. You will also need to give the new kitchen worktops a clean to prep them for everyday use.

DIY Worktops Not For You?

Want to avoid the stress and headache of replacing a kitchen worktop? Stone Synergy is a family-run business with over 30 years’ experience in supplying and installing kitchen worktops, so speak to our experienced team about your project and we’ll be happy to help.

We take care of the whole process of changing kitchen worktops, so you don’t have to worry about it.