If you’re in the market for new countertops for your home or replacing those old counters in your bathroom, you’d probably have heard the term “Square Footage.” Or perhaps your contractor or fabricator has asked you, and you need to provide the correct figures without appearing inexperienced.
You’ll find out in this article that it’s really simple. All you need is a tape measure and the calculator app on your phone. Nothing fancy or too technical.
Wait: Why Does Understanding Countertop Square Footage Matter?
Think of square footage as the starting point for your entire countertop project. Whether you’re choosing a stunning stone slab or a sleek quartz surface, the amount of material needed depends on the size of your space.
It’s not just about getting the right size. It’s about budgeting, avoiding waste, and helping your stone fabricator (that’s us at Cutting Edge Countertops) understand the scope of your project.
Without square footage, you’re guessing. Here’s why it matters:
- You can’t estimate countertop installation costs because you don’t know how much material you’re working with.
- You can’t compare materials within your budget if you don’t know how many square feet you need — price per square foot only helps when you have a number to plug in.
- If you need more than one slab, that changes both price and design. But without a total square footage, you won’t know.
- Thinking about adding a backsplash, waterfall edge, or peninsula? These extras all depend on how much surface area you’re covering and how it fits with the rest of your layout.
In short, if you want a smooth process from showroom to installation, square footage is your best friend.
If you’re just starting out, check out our Ultimate Guide to Quartz Countertops to get familiar with one of the most popular low-maintenance materials out there.
The Simple Formula (No Math Degree Required)
Here’s how to calculate the square footage of your countertops. It really comes down to this: Length × Width ÷ 144 = Square Feet.
Why divide by 144? Because your tape measure gives you dimensions in inches, but countertops are priced by the square foot. Since 1 foot equals 12 inches, then the square of one foot would be (12 inches x 12 inches = 144). So, you divide by 144 to convert it.
Now, let’s say your kitchen counter is 96 inches long and 25.5 inches deep (a pretty standard depth).
Your math would look like this: 96 × 25.5 = 2,448 ÷ 144 = 17 square feet.
That’s it — that’s one section of your total countertop. Repeat this for each part of your kitchen or bathroom where you’re adding a counter.
Here’s the thing — we don’t expect you to bring in blueprints. These measurements are just a starting point to help you — and us — understand how much material your project may need. We won’t fabricate and install from estimates. Once you’re ready, we’ll schedule a visit to obtain precise dimensions before any cutting takes place.
If you’re trying to avoid common mistakes with your surfaces, here are 5 Ways You’re Accidentally Ruining Your Kitchen Countertops.
You Want Examples That Make It Click?
Still a little fuzzy? Let’s run through a few real-life setups:
1. Straight Countertop
- Length: 96 inches
- Width: 25.5 inches
- Calculation: 96 × 25.5 = 2,448 ÷ 144 = 17 sq. ft.
Perfect for standard kitchen counters that run along a wall.
2. L-Shaped Layout
Break it into two rectangles and calculate each one:
- Section 1: 96 × 25.5 = 2,448 ÷ 144 = 17 sq. ft.
- Section 2: 48 × 25.5 = 1,224 ÷ 144 = 8.5 sq. ft.
Total countertop square footage: 17 + 8.5 = 25.5 sq. ft.
3. Kitchen Island
- Length: 60 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Calculation: 60 × 36 = 2,160 ÷ 144 = 15 sq. ft.
4. Don’t Forget the Extras
- Overhangs: Add 1 to 2 inches if your counter extends beyond the cabinet edge. Granite countertops, for example, have a standard 1 ½ overhang.
- Backsplashes: Measure height and length and calculate the same way.
- Sink cutouts and appliance spaces: These don’t usually affect the total material needed since fabricators cut them after the slab is measured and selected. Think of it as shaping a block of marble — we carve out what’s needed once the whole piece is chosen.
These are just simple examples. Your space can be bigger or smaller than these. However, they should give you a clear idea of how to put the lengths and widths of your countertop into square footage during a home remodel.
And if you’re remodeling more than just your counters, here are Ideas for Remodeling a Kitchen or Bathroom to guide your project.
Not Sure? That’s What We’re Here For
A rough measurement gives you a solid starting point, so we can help you narrow down options and give you a better idea of cost.
When you’re ready to move forward, we’ll take precise countertop measurements, work with you to select the perfect material, and handle the rest. We even offer digital layouts if you’re choosing something with bold patterns or veins, so every seam looks intentional.
At Cutting Edge Countertops, we help you figure out how much you need, guide you to the right material, and make the whole process feel a lot less overwhelming.
Curious how we take projects from concept to finish? Here’s a step-by-step on our Perfect Countertop Installation Process.
Ready to Get Started?
Need help choosing the right stone, comparing materials, or getting an accurate quote?
Stop by one of our showrooms or schedule a consultation today.
Let’s make your vision real — the right way, the first time.