Information about IKEA pre-cut countertops for kitchens

The pre-cut countertop always comes in predefined measurements. Customers need to cut the hole for the sink, the hole for the cooktop and desired width for the countertop.

Customers must take responsibility for cutting the countertop according to the measurements desired. Customers can cut the countertop themselves (will require specific tools) or take their countertop to a hardware store to have it professionally cut.

*Always cut the counter in a straight line and never at 45°, due to the way the pre-cut countertop is constructed internally, if the countertop is cut diagonally (45°) the counter will fall apart.

All pre-cut countertops come with 1 edge strip (thick wood vaneer comes with 2) to be used on the depth of the countertop (shorter side). These are not sold separately or as hardware. They should be glued to the cut sides of the countertop (glue needs to be purchased in a local hardware store).

IKEA has 2 types of pre-cut countertops:

1. Laminate countertops: comes in various materials and colors (e.g. EKBACKEN countertop, white marble effect, Article number: 403.356.28).

2. Thick veneer countertops: combines old craftsmanship with modern manufacturing methods, butcher block style (e.g. KARLBY countertop, veneer/ birch, Article number: 903.352.06).

Some very useful Countertop accessories are:

• Diffusion barrier: mounted under the countertop above a dishwasher to protect against moisture, this is for any type of wood countertop. Quartz countertops do not need the diffusion barrier. Article number: 043.750.85

• Countertop support fixture: acts as a support for any type of countertop and lifts the countertop to make it easier for the installation of appliances and sinks. Article number: 702.746.28

• STOCKARYD Wood treatment oil for indoor use 500 ml: protects wood surfaces, gives a nice sheen to enhance the character of the wood. Always suggested with all wood countertops. Article number: 202.404.62

Tips and rules for Pre-cut countertop:

• When storing a countertop, the temperature should be between 10° and 30° otherwise the countertop will break or get damaged.
• The maximum space for the countertop without any support in between 2 base cabinets is 30".
• The maximum overhang for the countertop is about 10" before the countertop will need some legs to support the overhang
• The pre-cut countertop comes in 2 lengths: 74’’ or 98’’, and the depth is always 25 5/8’’ (except for the island pre-cut countertops which are 42 inches deep and 74 inches long). The available thickness is either 1 1/8'’ or 1 1/2’’.
• EKBACKEN pre-cut countertops are the only ones with the size options for the island.
• There is no fixture hardware that IKEA carries to have 2 cut countertops brought together.

Click here to see more information for the pre-cut countertop:

We also have the IKEA Kitchen buying guide which has a section for the pre-cut countertops