Renovating a kitchen involves some precise measurements in order to have a well-designed kitchen plan. Mistakes can result in costly errors, which can lead to the reordering of kitchen cabinets, countertops, or appliances. The professionals use project design software but here you will learn to do it with just a pencil and paper.
The tools you need to measure a kitchen include a pencil with an eraser, graph paper, and a ruler.
Here’s how to measure a kitchen, so on installation day, cabinets, countertops, and appliances will fit intricately together, much like the pieces of a puzzle.
How to Measure Cabinets
It’s best to measure the walls rather than your current cabinets.
- Step 1: Draw the shape of your kitchen walls on your graph paper. Be sure to make notes of any existing windows.
- Step 2: Note the length of each wall from corner to corner.
- Step 3: Note the length of any window in the kitchen.
- Step 4: Measure the distance from each corner to the window casing (molding).
- Step 5: Measure the distance from the corners of the kitchen to each utility stub out such as gas lines, sink drains, refrigerator lines, etc… (if your current appliance does not allow you to see where the utility point is, just measure to the center of the appliance)
- Step 6: The final step is the measure the height of your ceiling. For accurate measurements, make note of 4 different areas and use the lowest point.
How to Measure Countertops and Sink
Countertop depth is not always necessary since there are standard measurements that the industry follows. However, it is nice to know the total square footage of counter you will need beforehand.
Measuring a countertop is done in total square feet. Record the length and the depth of each section of your cabinets in inches. For example: 42” x 24” + 118” x 24” + ___. You’ll then add all of the sections together to calculate total square inches, and then divide it by 144 to get your total square feet. If you’re doing estimations, round up to the next inch.
How to Measure for Appliances
The width is going to be one of the most important factors when it comes to appliances. You’ll also want to note height. A stove/oven should meet at the same height of a countertop. The fridge may have some restrictions if a cabinet is directly above it.
You’ll also want to note the depth of the countertop, so that the appliance isn’t too narrow, or doesn’t stick out too far. Ensure that you leave some space on either side for a fridge, so you can pull it out to clean it, or so the door can open.