TL;DR – in short
-
The IKEA METOD kitchen countertop does not have to be from IKEA
-
The most important things are the dimensions and the method of installation
-
IKEA countertops are easier and cheaper to install
-
Stone, sinter and conglomerate are ordered outside IKEA
-
The recommended depth of the countertop is approximately 62–63.5 cm
If you want simplicity – choose a countertop from IKEA.
If you care about durability and appearance – choose a countertop from an external source.
Introduction
When planning an IKEA METOD kitchen, many people automatically assume that the countertop must also be from IKEA. In practice, the METOD system offers much greater flexibility.
What matters isn't the brand of the countertop, but its dimensions , material , and installation method . In this article, we explain your options and what to consider before ordering.
Does an IKEA countertop fit the METOD system?
Yes. The countertops available at IKEA are fully compatible with the METOD system. They are designed for 60 cm deep cabinets and require no modifications.
IKEA mainly offers:
-
laminated countertops
-
wooden countertops
These are budget-friendly solutions, easy to install, and readily available. However, it's important to remember that holes for the sink, faucet, or hob are usually made independently or with the help of an installation team.
Does the countertop have to be from IKEA?
No. You can install virtually any countertop in an IKEA METOD kitchen – including those from third-party manufacturers.
Non-IKEA countertops are most often chosen when:
-
an undermount sink is planned
-
you care about high resistance to temperature and humidity
-
you want to achieve a more "furniture-like" or architectural effect
What countertop materials work well in METOD?
The most common options are:
-
laminate – practical, cheap, easy to maintain
-
wood – visually warmer, more natural
-
stone – very durable, heavy, more expensive
-
quartz conglomerate – resistant, visually uniform
-
quartz sinter – thin, modern, very resistant
There is no single "best" countertop. The best one is the one that suits how you use your kitchen.
What should you pay attention to when ordering a countertop from outside IKEA?
Countertop depth
METOD base units are 60 cm deep. The recommended countertop depth is 62–63.5 cm .
The countertop should protrude slightly beyond the fronts. This facilitates cleaning and protects the fronts from dirt.
Sink and hob installation
Not every material allows for every type of installation.
Undermount sinks require:
-
stone
-
sinter
-
conglomerate
Laminate and veneer countertops are typically used with inset sinks.
Weight and load capacity
Heavy stone countertops do not usually require METOD body reinforcement, but it is always worth confirming this with the countertop manufacturer.
Where to order a METOD kitchen countertop?
Countertops can be ordered:
-
at IKEA
-
at the carpenter's
-
at the stonemason's
-
in companies specializing in custom-made countertops
In the case of stone and sintered materials, the price often includes: measurement, transport, installation and cut-outs for the sink and hob.
Practical conclusions
-
The countertop for METOD does not have to be from IKEA
-
The METOD system gives you a lot of freedom of choice
-
Dimensions and assembly are more important than brand
-
The depth of the countertop really affects comfort
-
For undermount sinks, the countertop material is crucial.
FAQ – frequently asked questions
Does a non-IKEA countertop fit the METOD?
Yes, if the appropriate dimensions and installation method are maintained.
Does a stone countertop require reinforced cabinets?
Usually not, but it is worth discussing this with the contractor.
Is a laminate countertop a bad choice?
No. It's a practical and budget-friendly solution for many kitchens.
Comparison of popular kitchen countertop materials
(other than stone)
| Material | What's the advantage? | What to watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Natural, warm look; can be refreshed by sanding or oiling | Sensitive to moisture and high temperatures; requires regular care |
| Laminate | Low price; light; huge selection of colors and patterns | Less durable; more easily damaged; does not tolerate prolonged moisture well |
| Veneer | Visually similar to solid wood; cheaper and thinner | Delicate; if poorly secured, it may delaminate |
| HPL | More resistant than laminate; withstands impact and moisture well | More expensive than regular laminate; not every variant is suitable for an under-mounted sink |
| Microcement | Modern effect; can be applied over existing countertop; water resistant | Requires an experienced contractor; if done incorrectly, it may crack. |
| Stainless steel | Hygienic; resistant to water and high temperatures | Fingerprints are visible; scratches are easy; the industrial look doesn't suit everyone |
| Tiles | A cheap and flexible option; easy replacement of individual components | Grouts get dirty; uneven surface; less comfortable in everyday use |
Comparison of types of stone for kitchen countertops
| Type of stone | Advantages | Defects |
|---|---|---|
| Granite | Very durable; scratch, water and temperature resistant; often cheaper than you think | Requires impregnation; its appearance is sometimes considered too heavy |
| Quartz conglomerate | Stain-resistant; easy to clean; high pattern repeatability | It does not tolerate very high temperatures well. |
| Quartz sinter | Ultra-thin; heat and dirt resistant; modern look | Difficult to process; no spot repairs possible; requires professional installation |
| Quartzite | Extremely hard; looks like marble but is more durable | High price; limited availability; impregnation required |
| Marble | Elegant, luxurious character; unique use | Soft and absorbent; stains easily; requires regular protection |
| Travertine | Warm, natural effect; each countertop is unique | Very porous; absorbs water and grease; requires filling and impregnation |
TL;DR Materials
-
Want a hassle-free countertop → granite, HPL, conglomerate
-
Design counts → microcement, sinter, marble
-
Budget matters → laminate or tiles
-
Natural atmosphere → wood, veneer, travertine (but with care)
0 comments