To start the process, an on-site measure needs to be done to determine the sizes needed as well as any limitations for thickness, depth or backsplash height (fill out the form at the bottom of this page to set that up). Some countertop profiles are only available in certain thicknesses, depths and backsplash heights. All of these considerations will be taken into account and discussed during the on-site measure and options will be given to best suit your cabinets. Once the measure is done, then you can visit either of the local suppliers listed below and see samples of the edge profiles and colour patterns. Once a profile and colour is chosen, then your countertop can be ordered based on the measure sheet that I send to them. As soon as your countertop arrives at the chosen supplier, it is then cut in their cut-shop to the specified dimensions and the ends are capped and finished. I will then contact you to set up an installation date and coordinate delivery.

The cost depends on the countertop layout, how many mitres are included, whether removal and disposal of the old tops are required, and if any additional prep work needs to be done to the cabinets. I will provide an install quote following the on-site measure. The cost of the countertop material will be provided by the local supplier you choose. If you are looking for a rough estimate before a measure is done, I can usually provide an approximate cost based on rough measurements and photos of the existing countertops which can be submitted in the contact form at the bottom of this page. If a measure is done but you do not proceed with an install, then a measure fee will be charged.

No, before ordering I do a site-visit to take all the necessary measurements and check all of the existing conditions to ensure that the proper sizes are ordered for the best possible fit.

That is completely up to you. I do offer the service of removing the old countertops at the time of installation. That can be discussed at the time of the on-site measure and will be factored into the overall installation cost. Disposal of the old tops can also be arranged for if needed for an additional fee.

Yes, a plumber will be required to remove the existing sink and reinstall it (or install a new sink). I will create the cutout required in the new countertop for the sink, but the sink removal and installation is done by the plumber of your choosing (unless you have the plumbing skills to do it yourself). Usually the plumber will come at the end of the day before countertop install and remove the old sink, and then come back at the end of the day of countertop install and install the new sink.

Rest assured that they never are. A vital part of properly measuring for countertops is taking that into account and allowing for the right amount of extra length and width. This extra material gives the ability to scribe and fit the countertop to the contours of the walls during installation and gives a finished look.

No, there is no maintenance required for laminate countertop other than normal washing. There are however a few things you can do to ensure that your countertop stays looking like new for many years to come. See the care tips section below.

Yes it can be ordered with a built-in backsplash. It can also be ordered with no backsplash and a custom backsplash material can be used on the wall such as wall tile.

There are a few things that you can do to keep your countertop looking like new for many years to come.

1. Keep standing water away from mitre joints and around the perimeter of the sink. While the surface of laminate countertop is completely waterproof, it uses particle board as the substrate which can be damaged by exposure to excess water at joints and cutouts. I always seal all mitre joints with glue and silicone when assembling them, but puddles of standing water will eventually find their way in. Normal wiping and washing is not an issue, but puddles of liquid should be kept away from all joints. Excess water should also be kept wiped up around the sink. The sink should be sealed to the countertop by the plumber but the less water that sits there, the better. I also go one step further and seal the edge of the sink cutout with clear silicone and let it dry before the plumber installs the sink as an extra precaution.

2. Avoid dragging heavy items over the mitre joints. There is always somewhat of a natural high point at the mitre joints. I’ve seen many old countertops with the colour worn away at the mitre joints and this is a result of dragging items like mixing bowls, stand mixers, countertop appliances etc. over the joints.

3. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or abrasive cleaning tools. Laminate countertop can be scratched by abrasives and should only be cleaned with a normal dish cloth and dish soap. Laminate is unaffected by solvents such as Varsol or lacquer thinner if a stronger solvent is needed.

4. Avoid placing hot items directly on laminate countertop. While laminate is relatively heat resistant, it can be damaged or discoloured by excess heat from pots, frying pans etc.