Thinking about changing your kitchen look? Replacing your kitchen worktops is one of the easiest way to make a big difference. Whether your old worktops are damaged, outdated, or just not your style anymore, a new one can refresh your kitchen without a full remodel.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to replace kitchen worktops step by step, explain the best materials to choose, and share useful tips for doing it yourself or hiring a professional.
Why Should You Replace Kitchen Worktops?
Kitchen worktops get used every day—for cooking, cleaning, eating, and more. Over time, they can wear out, get scratched, stained, or just stop matching the rest of your kitchen.
Here are a few good reasons to replace them:
The surface is cracked, chipped, or peeling.
It’s hard to keep clean or look clean, even when it’s not.
You’re updating your kitchen’s style or colour scheme.
You want to increase the value of your home.
You need more space or a better layout for cooking and working.
Even if you don’t change anything else in the kitchen and only replace Kitchen worktops can completely change how your kitchen looks and feels.
What Are the Best Materials for Kitchen Worktops?
There are lots of choices when it comes to replace kitchen worktops. Some materials are more affordable, while others are more durable or stylish. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:
Quartz Worktops
Quartz worktops are very strong and don’t stain easily. They come in many colours and look modern and clean.
Pros:
Tough and long-lasting
Doesn’t stain or scratch easily
Easy to clean
Cons:
More expensive than some other options
Needs professional installation
Granite Worktops
Granite is a natural stone that gives a classy and unique look. Every granite worktop has its own pattern.
Pros:
Heat-resistant and strong
Adds luxury to your kitchen
Increases home value
Cons:
Heavy and must be sealed
Needs strong cabinets to support the weight
Marble Worktops
Marble worktops look beautiful and are popular in high-end kitchens. They’re great for baking because they stay cool.
Pros:
Elegant and stylish
Makes your kitchen feel more expensive
Cons:
Can stain or scratch easily
Needs regular care
Laminate Worktops
Laminate worktop is a budget-friendly option. It comes in many styles and can look like wood or stone.
Pros:
Affordable
Easy to clean and install
Many colours and patterns are available
Cons:
Can be damaged by heat or sharp tools
Doesn’t last as long as stone
Can You Put a New Worktop Over the Old One?
Yes, in many cases, you don’t have to remove your old worktop—you can put the new one right on top. This saves time, effort, and money.
You can cover your old worktop with:
Thin stone slabs (like quartz or granite)
Laminate overlays
Tiles
Solid surface sheets
Note: Make sure the old worktop is strong and level. Keep in mind that adding a new layer will make the worktop slightly higher.
Should You Repair or Replace?
Sometimes, small scratches or chips can be fixed instead of replacing the whole worktop.
It’s a small problem, like a scratch or stain
Repair it if:
It’s a small problem, like a scratch or stain
You have a solid surface or wooden worktop that can be sanded
Replace it if:
There are big cracks, burns, or deep stains
It’s old, warped, or falling apart
You want a completely new look
DIY or Hire a Professional?
Installing kitchen worktops can be a DIY project—but only if you’re using easy-to-handle materials like wood or laminate and you have some basic tools. However, if you’re using quartz, granite, or marble, it’s better to hire professionals. These materials are heavy and require special tools to cut and fit properly.
Steps to Replace Kitchen Worktops
Here’s a simple outline of how to replace kitchen worktops:
Measure Your Space
Use a tape measure to get the correct size of your current worktops. Don’t forget to measure sink cutouts, corner units, or breakfast bars.
Choose Your Material
Pick a worktop that matches your kitchen’s style and fits your budget. Remember, quartz, granite, and marble are more durable, but also more expensive.
Remove the Old Worktop (If Needed)
Unscrew the old worktop from the cabinets. Remove any sealant or backsplash that’s in the way.
Check Cabinets and Supports
Make sure your kitchen cabinets are strong and level. Add extra supports if needed, especially for heavy stone worktops.
Cut and Fit the New Worktop
Cut the new worktop to size. Make cutouts for sinks, hobs, or taps. Smooth the edges and check the fit.
Fix It in Place
Use the right adhesive or brackets (depending on the material) to secure your new kitchen worktop. Seal the edges with silicone to keep water out.
Finish the Look
Add splashbacks, trims, or upstands for a clean finish.
What About the Kitchen Cabinets?
You don’t always need to replace your cabinets. If they’re still strong, you can keep the old ones and just give them a fresh look.
Ways to update your cabinets:
Repaint the doors in a new colour
Add modern handles or knobs
Replace just the doors and drawer fronts
Cover the sides with matching panels
This is a great way to save money and still make your kitchen look brand new, especially if you’re investing in high-end worktops like granite or marble.
Simple Design Tips
Light colours make small kitchens feel bigger.
Use under-cabinet lighting to highlight your new worktop.
Mix textures like smooth quartz with wood accents.
Match your worktop with splashbacks for a stylish finish.
Add a kitchen island or breakfast bar if space allows.
Conclusion: Replacing Kitchen Worktops Made Easy
If you want to improve your kitchen without a full renovation, replacing the worktops is the perfect place to start. Whether you go with Quartz Worktops, Granite Worktops, Marble Worktops, or a more budget-friendly Laminate, there’s a solution for every home and budget. New worktops will make your kitchen more modern and stylish, increase your home’s value and improve hygiene and kitchen function.
With good planning and the right material, you can have a brand-new kitchen feel in just a few days.
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