Good news is, you can raise or lower your countertops to your liking, making that complete kitchen gut and remodel as customized as it gets.
The higher counter height makes perfect sense. It's more important that the space works for you rather than the potential next owner. I agree with Steve, by adding the extra height to the countertop you create a nice architectural detail. You can do that by building up the stone, quartz or wood.
The standard height should be between 38”-39” for people above-average height. 32” is good for below-average height people. In case of disabled people and wheelchair users, the height of countertop should be 31”-34”.
The industry standard for kitchen countertop height is about 36 inches above the floor. In fact, this standard is so universal, cabinetmakers build all cabinets to a height of 34-1/2 inches as the average countertop thickness is about an inch and a half.
Place your hands on the edges of the countertop, making sure to keep your fingers away from the middle. Slowly lift the countertop off the ground, making sure to keep it level to your body. As you lift, make sure to keep your back straight and your legs bent. Once the countertop is in the air, you can start to move it.
On average, homeowners spend between $100-$200 to get rid of old countertops. But with LoadUp, countertop disposal costs start at $89, and varies on location, the type of countertop and the number of items you need to get rid of.
You can replace your kitchen countertops without replacing the cabinetry if they are still in good condition. By doing this, your kitchen gets a new look, and you save some money too!
Counter Height Requirements
Sales and service counters are typically too high for those in wheelchairs, so modifications must be made. An ADA compliant sales or service counter must have a portion that is 28"-36" inches high, measured from the finish floor to the sales counter top.
The average kitchen countertop height is typically around 36 inches from the floor to the top surface of the countertop. Most base cabinets are 34.5 inches high, and most countertop materials are around 1.5 inches thick, totaling 3 feet for overall counter height.
The most common height that contractors follow is 18 inches above the countertop. However, for clients that request some extra space, 20 inches was the usual measure. Under 18 inches, small appliances may not fit below the cabinets, or if you're taller the upper cabinets can block your view of the countertop.
If you're 5'7”, congratulations! You're among an elite group of “perfect-heighters”, meaning the standard countertop height of 36 inches was specifically designed with you in mind.
The Guidelines require a clearance of at least 40 inches between all opposing base cabinets, countertops, appliances, and walls.
How High Upper Cabinets Should Be From The Counter. The standard height for upper cabinets from the counter is 18 inches, or 1 foot and 6 inches. They shouldn't be less than 15 inches away or more than 20 inches away. This also means the height to where the bottom of your upper cabinets starts.
It may appear like a new granite or quartz countertop, costing less money and time than a comprehensive kitchen countertop. It's a strong surface that would endure years of hard work at the heart of your home, winning over your hearts as well.
Bar height surfaces are typically between 41-43" tall, whereas counter height sits six inches lower, usually between 35-40". Islands at bar height are usually a few inches too tall to conveniently use as additional work space, while counter height surfaces typically sit at a natural working height.
Ergonomic Considerations: The height of the kitchen island should also be considered ergonomically. A taller island might provide a more comfortable working height for tasks like chopping and mixing, while a counter-height island ensures consistency across all workspaces.
The standard counter height is 36 inches for kitchens and 32 inches for bathrooms. People frequently deviate from these norms, however, to create a custom design that works for their needs or desires.
Counter height surfaces are typically 35-40" tall, making them the ideal height for a workspace. Bar height is usually around six inches higher, measuring anywhere between 41-43" tall.
Counter height—36 inches. Table height – 30 inches.
Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn't porous like granite, it's easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times.
Corian (designed by DuPont) was the first solid surface material to appear on the market. It was first sold in 1971 in only one color. The brand still exists and now manufacturers more than 100 colors. The material is stain-resistant due to its non-porous nature, a useful characteristic for a kitchen counter.
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.