Seams are often a major concern for homeowners installing new kitchen countertops. However, they are almost inevitable in modern kitchens. The exception is island counters, which can be seamless with the right dimensions. Smaller homes with compact kitchens might also suit seamless countertops. But in larger, modern kitchens, avoiding seams is more challenging. It’s crucial to understand that seams are not always a negative aspect. In fact, they can be beneficial.
After Hidden Work Is Done
The easiest way to visualize the stage at which cabinetry and countertops are installed is to think about what will and will not be visible after the fact. Things that will not be visible are considered hidden work. This includes plumbing for the sink and the electrical circuits that will power your appliances. It also includes the plywood subfloor – if you are going that far down with your demo.
All the hidden work needs to be done first. Otherwise, it will be too hard to get to with cabinetry in the way. Kitchen cabinets also don’t tend to go in until the walls have been painted. There is no point in putting in cabinets and countertops prior to painting only to risk damaging them with paint splashes here and there.
If you are putting in a custom backsplash, your countertops go in before. That way, you can carry the backsplash all the way down to the countertop. Lastly, consider the kitchen sink. If it is mounted under the countertop surface, it goes in after the cabinets but before the counters.
Countertops and Appliances
Whether installing quartz, granite, or marble countertops, most homeowners understand the concept of getting all the hidden work done first. It has been our experience that the big question is one of countertops and appliances. Which gets installed first?
The general rule is that countertops are installed before appliances, with the possible exception of an under- the-counter dishwasher. Refrigerators, stoves, ranges, and wine coolers are all installed after countertops. However, there is an important caveat here.
Professional contractors often prefer to wait for countertop installation until all the appliances have arrived. Here’s why: even though appliances tend to come with standard measurements, you can never truly know how things are going to fit until you get the appliances on the job site.
It is best to have all the appliances on hand so that the contractor can get more exacting measurements. They don’t have to be in place when measured. They just need to be available. And if you do have a specialty appliance that does not meet standards, you’ll avoid wasting countertop material with incorrect measurements.
Near the End of the Project
Given that kitchen countertops are installed immediately after cabinetry, installation tends to be near the end of the project. Get all the hidden work out of the way. Make sure the appliances have been delivered. Post installation, you will only have a few jobs remaining: installing the backsplash, caulking, and getting those appliances put in place. After that, you can finally enjoy your fully remodeled kitchen.
If you’d like an expert to handle the stress of renovating, contact us today to discuss how we can help with the kitchen remodel of your dreams. Visit one of our Utah showrooms to be guided by our experts and pick out your custom kitchen design.
