Countertop Square Footage Calculator for Accurate Measurements

How to Calculate Countertop Square Footage: A Quick Measurement Guide

Measuring countertops isn’t complicated, but doing it right really matters. Follow these four simple steps to get precise measurements and use the calculator with confidence for any countertop project.

Step 1: Measure Each Section Separately

Grab your tape measure. Measure the length and width (in inches) of each rectangular section of your existing countertops. Got a U-shaped or L-shaped kitchen? Break your countertop project into individual sections and measure each straight section from wall to wall, even if they connect at corners.

[add alt text: Countertop square footage calculator — Measuring U-shape and L-shape countertops]

➡️ Don’t forget to include overhangs or any custom shapes you’ll need.

Step 2: Multiply and Convert to Square Feet

Take each section’s length and width measurements and multiply them together. Then divide by 144 to convert from square inches to square feet.

Formula: (Length × Width) ÷ 144 = Square Feet

Write down the square footage for each section — you’ll add them up in the final step.

Step 3: Add Backsplash Area (If Needed)

Planning to use the same material for your backsplash? Calculate backsplash square footage the same way: (Length × Width) ÷ 144. Don’t forget to add this to your total countertop square footage for an accurate material estimate.

Step 4: Add Everything Together and Round Up

Add up all your section measurements plus any backsplash area for your total square footage. Round up to the nearest half square foot — materials come in slabs, not fractions.

Don’t forget the waste factor. Most projects need 10–20% extra for cuts, mistakes, and future repairs. Our calculator includes this automatically, but knowing why helps you budget properly.

Standard Countertop Depth and Overhang

Getting the standard depth right matters for both function and cost. Kitchen and bathroom countertops have different standard measurements, and knowing these helps you measure accurately and plan your budget.

These measurements work for most homes, but custom depths are always possible. Islands often have larger overhangs for seating, typically 10-12 inches for bar stools. Always measure your actual space to be sure.

What Affects the Price of a Countertop?

Countertop costs depend on more than just square footage. Material choice makes the biggest difference, but edge profiles, thickness, and installation complexity all impact your final price. Even the shape of your space affects costs — more cuts mean higher fabrication fees.

Here’s what you can expect for popular materials:

* Based on a standard 30 square foot countertop project, which is typical for most kitchens.

Need more specific numbers? Try our Quartz Countertop Cost Calculator to price your project by quartz type, square footage, and edge profile.

Turn Your Estimate Into a Real Plan with Granite Selection

At Granite Selection, we make the entire countertop process easy—from measurement to fabrication to installation. You won’t deal with delays, vague pricing, or confusing options. Just expert guidance and high-quality results.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Thousands of granite, quartz, and marble slabs ready to go
• Full-service support: measurement, fabrication, and installation
• Transparent quotes with no surprise fees
• Reliable timelines and expert coordination
• Top-rated customer support from first contact to final install

Ready to turn your estimate into a finished space you’ll love? Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.

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