Upgrading your kitchen counter tops can be fun and an exciting time – but please take into consideration the following insight.
Are all the cutout fees included?
What edge profiles are included?
What edge profiles are an up charge and how much so?
How will your new counters interact with your current backsplash?
Under mount or top mount sink?
Stainless steel, composite, porcelain or other type of sink?
Does the fabricator digitally template and then use a machine?
Will they template your replacement counter tops with the old counter tops in place?
If you are going with a large under mount sink with a disposal – is the rough plumbing in the wall low enough?
Does their price include disconnection of the plumbing?
Will they caulk the new counters?
Does their price include delivery and installation? Does the price they quoted you include the sales tax already?
Does their price include reconnection of the plumbing? Dishwasher? Stove? Cook Top? Etc?
What about removal and hauling away of the old counters? Without damaging the tile, cabinets, flooring, appliances, doorways or anything else that is staying current?
What type of warranty do they provide for?
If the counters need sealing – will they provide the first coat along with care and maintenance instructions and explanation?
There are a few, not all, counter top providers that make it to where there is a lot of fine print and hidden fees that you do not find out about until it’s too far into the game.
Sometimes these things are discovered after the deposit is paid and is nearly impossible to get back.
You should be playing on a level playing field as you determine whom is the best option for your new counter tops.
If the floor plan of your kitchen works for you and your cabinets meet your expectations then upgrading your counter tops is a great way to improve your kitchen. Just be sure to factor in whether you want to change your sink, faucet, back splash at the time in order to have the proper budget set.
Also of note, when changing the back splash is the best time to upgrade to under cabinet lighting if that is something you desire. The holes made by the electrician to run the wires for the under cabinet lighting can be repaired before the new back splash is installed.
There is much more information in the LEARNING CENTER available to you.
You may be interested in the following articles:
How Can a Remodeled Kitchen Improve My Health?
What Exactly are Quartz Counters and Are They a Smart Choice for My Kitchen Remodel?
Or this video: