Can you keep your countertops if you get new cabinets?

Author: Amely Nikolaus DDS  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

You might be wondering if you can replace your kitchen cabinets without sacrificing your current counters. The answer is yes! Whether you have charming vintage, sturdy quartz or gorgeous granite countertops, you can absolutely save your countertops while changing out your cabinets.

Can you change cabinets but keep the countertop?

Yes, it is entirely possible to replace kitchen countertops while leaving the existing cabinets in place. This is a common practice during kitchen renovations. Here are some key points to consider:

Can you replace cabinets and keep quartz countertops?

Yes, countertops can often be replaced without damaging cabinets. This process involves removing the old countertop and installing a new one while preserving the existing cabinetry.

Should you replace cabinets or countertops first?

It is generally recommended to remove the countertops prior to replacing the lower kitchen cabinets. This allows for easier access to the cabinet bases and ensures that the countertops are not damaged during the installation process.

Can quartz countertops be removed without damaging cabinets?

Depends how much silicone they used when they set the countertop. As long as they try to cut the silicone and pry the countertop lose from inside, that could help not to cause any damage to the outside of the cabinet.

Should I Repaint, Reface, or Replace my Kitchen Cabinets?

Can I replace countertops without damaging cabinets?

Yes, you can, but it's better to get a professional to remove it. That way, they ensure your cabinetry sustains minimal to no damage throughout the process.

What is negative about quartz countertops?

Cons: Uniformity: Being uniform has pros and cons for a homeowner, but generally, the lack of uniqueness makes quartz look more plastic than natural stone. May fade in direct sun exposure. Vulnerable to heat damage.

Should countertops be lighter or darker than cabinets?

Deciding on the color of your kitchen countertops can be tricky. Experts recommend working with a lighter countertop than a cabinet for the perfect color blend. This combination makes the countertop installation job ideal for the ultimate kitchen outlook.

Is replacing cabinets worth it?

Investing in your kitchen can have a significant impact on your home's overall value. According to the 2023 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, replacing kitchen cabinets can yield up to 85.7% of the investment.

What is the average cost to replace countertops with quartz?

The average total cost to purchase and install quartz counters falls between $3,000 and $4,500. However, it's common to spend anywhere from $2,000 up to $6,000 or more depending on several cost factors: Quartz prices per square foot – Low to high-end material grades.

What is the cheapest way to replace kitchen countertops?

Generally the cheapest countertops available, laminate is made from layers of plastic bonded to particleboard to form a solid surface. Preformed counters with a built-in backsplash come in limited colors and patterns. You can dress up this product by paying for extras like end caps, mitered corners, or bullnose edges.

How often should you replace countertops?

Your Countertops Look Outdated

While you'll incur an additional expense you may not have budgeted for, it will save you time and can even make you money in the long run. In general, kitchen countertops should be replaced every 10-15 years, which is roughly the lifecycle of interior trends.

Can you save quartz countertops when replacing cabinets?

Reusing quartz countertops is possible, but it comes with several challenges. The process requires careful removal, transport, and reinstallation to avoid damaging the durable yet brittle material. Professional assistance is highly recommended to minimize the risk of cracks and ensure a seamless fit with new cabinetry.

What brands of kitchen cabinets does Lowes carry?

Lowe's offers a variety of custom cabinets and semi-custom cabinets from several different manufacturers to meet your style and construction preferences and exceed your every expectation. Shop KraftMaid cabinets, Shenandoah cabinets, Diamond cabinets and Schuler Cabinetry cabinets.

Do I need to empty cabinets for countertop installation?

The cabinets located at the sink base should be completely emptied, with the top set of drawers removed. This will make it easier for our installers to gain access to the countertop without having to remove those items themselves. Kitchen or bathroom sinks should also be disconnected and removed.

What color countertops never go out of style?

White will always be an elegant choice for kitchen countertops.

What are the kitchen trends for 2025?

Bold Colors: The Rise of Dramatic Hues

While a white kitchen is still quite popular, darker or brighter cabinet color choices are emerging. According to Country Living Magazine, deep black, smokey charcoal, and even terracotta are making appearances.

Should you redo cabinets or countertops first?

Some homeowners opt for a remodeling project in stages. In that case, we recommend refinishing the cabinets before installing the new countertops. It is because kitchen cabinets have relative a larger surface area than countertops.

Can I keep countertops when replacing cabinets?

You might be wondering if you can replace your kitchen cabinets without sacrificing your current counters. The answer is yes!

What is a realistic budget for a kitchen remodel?

Experts say that, as a rule of thumb, plan to spend between 5% to 15% of your home value on a kitchen renovation. If your home costs $300,000, your kitchen renovation budget range should fall between $15,000 and $45,000. Staying in this range will help you maximize the return on your investment.

Is quartz cheaper than granite?

Which is more expensive, quartz or granite? Both quartz and granite maintain their value for many years to come, and the materials cost approximately the same, with quartz being slightly less expensive. However, luxurious quartz products can be as expensive as granite slabs.

Why do people not like quartz countertops?

Con: Heat Resistance

For some countertops, such as laminate, that would be a disaster. Quartz countertops are somewhat heat resistant, but at very high temperatures the resins that bind the quartz crystals may discolor.

Can you put a microwave on a quartz countertop?

The short answer is yes, you can place a microwave directly on quartz kitchen countertops Noblesville, IN. Quartz is a strong material that can support the weight of a microwave without any issues.

What is the most non-toxic countertop?

Good options include porcelain slabs, quartz, and some natural stone. Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate. If using laminate countertops, specify that the substrate be made with a no added formaldehyde (NAF) resin.

Previous article
How can I stop my water pipes from freezing?
Next article
What are the two sinks of carbon dioxide?