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How To Plan A Template And Fit Worktop

From levelling base cupboards to boxing in pipes, learn how to plan for a template and fit worktop. We want your customer's solid surface to look and fit exactly how they expect, so it is important for our template surveyors to take accurate measurements and check the design details. For that happen, you need to follow our tips on prepping units and functional features. There is also fitting advice on design and installation, to give you confidence that your customer's bespoke worktop is made to a high standard.

Steps for success

From design to depot and delivery – we support you, so you can help our template surveyors and solid surface fitters to do their job to a high standard. Follow our simple steps for a successful installation that goes ahead without a hitch.

Prepare for templating

Clearing out clutter, prepping walls, and finalising the foundation - these are steps you need to start with to ensure the templating appointment goes ahead smoothly.

Make the space safe

Parts, packaging, and power tools are potential hazards. Tidy these away before our template surveyor arrives. We also recommend that floors are protected, the room is well lit, and mains power is available for the appointment.

Declutter the room

Clear anything that can be removed, including temporary sinks, hobs, and counters. Walls need to be plastered and dry, with no backboards or tiles, and they can’t be changed after templating – keep this in mind when finalising the design.

Create a solid base

All cupboards and corner posts must be fixed, level, and square to provide a firm foundation. You can fit base unit decor ends, but don’t fit wall end panels if splashbacks or upstands also need templating.

Templating and installation

Clearing out clutter, prepping walls, and finalising the foundation - these are steps you need to start with to ensure the templating appointment goes ahead smoothly.

Sinks and taps

Ceramic or composite sinks need to be securely installed in a cradle. Remember to leave enough space behind tap levers for backboards or upstands, and make sure Belfast or inset sinks are on-site.

Appliances

Fit the extractor if the splashback butts up to it. If it sits behind, create ducting holes and fixing points, then remove the extractor. Integrated appliances must be fitted, and range cookers require an extra 10mm between decor ends.

Electrics and plumbing

Under-cabinet lighting and light pelmets must be removed and wall sockets clearly marked, with cables pulled through. Finalise socket positions, with face plates fitted or the power isolated. Pipes also have to be boxed in.

Counter considerations

Whether your customer wants drainer grooves or a consistent look, there are a few installation considerations to keep in mind when our fitters are finishing the surface.

20mm Eternal Calacatta Gold Worktop with Ceramic Sink and Brass Tap

Drainer grooves

If your customer has chosen an undermount bowl, they can opt for drainer grooves at the templating stage. These are added during manufacturing and create a vacuum that drains water from essentials, so crockery can be dried and cleared away faster.

Chilcomb Paint To Order Fir Green Worktop

Joins

Every bespoke surface has visible joins. It's also important to remember that heavily-veined patterns may not match across joins, corners, or waterfall features, so styles with solid colours are a better option if your customer wants a more seamless look.

A stately kitchen featuring light-grey shaker doors with a beaded detail and glass dresser cabinets in an island layout.

A Guide To Solid Surface Worktops

Premium, personalised, and precisely made - our bespoke worktops elevate any space. Made from quartz or acrylic, these counters can be customised by colour, thickness, size, and profile for a unique look. Installation is also included, so it's easy to achieve a flawless fit.

A GUIDE TO SOLID SURFACE WORKTOPS