Standard Depth of a Laminate Countertop

Standard Base

• The standard depth for cabinet bases is about 25 inches, although your chosen manufacturer may be plus or minus just a smidge. This base measurement dictates the average depth of a countertop, whether it is laminate or made of other materials. When measuring for countertops, check with the cabinet manufacturer for details on its products and for its own specific countertop depth recommendation.

Commercial Equipment

• Commercial equipment is used by some homeowners to customize their kitchens with high-end gear such as stoves, ovens, built-in wine coolers and dishwashers. If you are using commercial items, understand that there are no standard measurements for such installations. Your laminate countertops will be as deep as needed to cover this equipment along with the cabinet installation.

Overhang Variations

• A defining element in countertop installations is the overhang – how much of the top extends past the cabinet base. Commonly, the edge of the countertop sits flush with the face of the closed cabinet doors. However, you can adjust this dimension. You can have a countertop that flushes out with the base unit or even beyond the doors if you choose, requiring a custom laminate countertop.

Personal Preference

• For the most part, your personal preference can dictate the depth of your laminate countertop. Most customizations are done during the countertop installation. But there can be engineering concerns with custom tops. Bar tops, for example, with an overhang of 18 inches or more, need some form of support to carry the weight of the top as it extends past the cabinet base.