Preparing for a New Countertop Installation: What You Need to Know

You did it! You’ve chosen your new stunning countertops. We know you want the installation process to go smoothly, so we’re here to help. Follow our helpful tips to prepare for countertop installation, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.

How To Prepare for Countertop Installation

1. Choose the Style For Your New Countertops

Have you picked out your new countertops yet? At Zeeland Lumber & Supply, our designers are here to help you find the perfect countertop material and color option for any project or renovation. We also offer custom countertops!

One of the hardest parts of installing new countertops is deciding which countertop material is right for your project. Take a look at our Ultimate Guide to Countertop Materials and choose your dream countertops today!

2. Choose the Brand That Fits Your Style

Now you must decide which brand carries the style of countertop that you’ve selected. Zeeland Lumber & Supply is proud to carry top-of-the-line products from reputable brands. We’ll work with you to decide who is best for you to work with depending on your needs. For example, if you need a quick turnaround time on a high-end natural stone countertop, we’ll let you know which supplier can deliver. No matter what you’re looking for, our team is here to ensure that you’re always getting the best quality no matter what.

Also, word-of-mouth is one of the best types of marketing, so you can always ask your friends, family, and neighbors if they have recommendations for countertop materials and brands that they favor.

Once these decisions are made, our professionals at Zeeland Lumber & Supply will work with you to get the precise measurements and set up delivery and installation with the countertop fabricator.

3. Set the Installation Date

Select a date and time for your countertop installation when you know you can be present (most contractors require an authorized individual to be present during the process). If you have young children or pets, keeping them out of the area for the day is best.

When you work with Zeeland Lumber & Supply, we will help to coordinate an installation date with the countertop fabricator to accommodate your schedule.

4. Prepare Your Home Before Installation

Before the contractor arrives at your home, you must take steps to prepare the area. Each company will have specific instructions, but some of the general rules to follow include:

• If your contractor is not removing your current countertops for you, be sure to remove them from the area in advance.
• Remove nails and screws from the initial installation from the cabinets, backsplash, and surrounding areas.
• Clean up any dust or debris in the area.
• Move rugs, tables, furniture, decor, etc., out of the area.
• Create a clear, accessible path for contractors to bring the countertops into your home.
• Ensure cabinets are level and secured to the walls and floor. If new cabinets are part of your remodel, they must be installed before countertops can be measured and installed. If the cabinets rest on top of the countertops (garage, tool room, etc.), they can’t be installed until after the new countertop is installed.
• Ensure all appliances (dishwashers, stoves, and refrigerators) are in place.
• Disconnect sinks and other plumbing fixtures.

5. Be Prepared For Post-Installation

After your countertops are installed, your contractor should thoroughly clean the area. You’ll need to be prepared to clean up any remaining debris and reassemble your room to your liking. If you haven’t already, arrange for a plumber or electrician to reconnect plumbing or wiring.

Your contractor should also inform you about the best ways to maintain your counters for years to come. Generally, it’s always best to use cutting boards and trivets to protect from heat sources. Depending on your countertop material, it’s generally best not to place hot pots or pans directly on countertops.

Start Your New Countertop Process

Ready to install new countertops? Talk to our team at Zeeland Lumber & Supply. We can help you find the materials that will work best in your home, and we’ll make sure you’re prepared for installation day. Contact us online for more info!