Range/Cooktop Cutout in Countertop: Sizes, Process, and Costs
A range/cooktop cutout in countertop requires precise measurements and professional fabrication.
Quick Definition: A cooktop cutout is a rectangular opening in the countertop where a drop-in cooktop sits. The fabricator cuts this opening based on the cooktop manufacturer's specifications, typically with specific clearance requirements (1/8" to 1/4" gap). Freestanding ranges don't need a countertop cutout -- the countertop simply ends at each side of the range opening. Getting the cutout dimensions right is critical because errors are expensive to fix.
TL;DR
- Cooktop cutouts are made by the fabricator during slab fabrication (not on-site)
- Freestanding ranges don't require a cutout -- the countertop terminates at the range opening
- Cutout dimensions must match the manufacturer's specifications exactly (not the cooktop's visible size)
- Typical clearance: 1/8" to 1/4" between the cutout edge and the cooktop frame
- A cooktop cutout typically costs $150-$350 as part of fabrication
- Corner radius matters -- rounded corners on the cutout reduce stress fractures
- Wrong cutout dimensions can crack the countertop or void the cooktop warranty
- Always provide the fabricator with the cooktop's installation template or spec sheet
Freestanding Range vs. Cooktop: Different Countertop Requirements
These two setups are often confused but require completely different countertop treatments:
Freestanding Range (Stove)
A freestanding range sits in a gap between two countertop sections. The countertop runs along the walls on either side of the range but stops at the range opening. No cutout is needed.
What the fabricator does:
- Terminates the countertop at each side of the range opening
- Finishes the exposed ends (polished or with a finished edge)
- Accounts for the range width plus a small clearance gap
Drop-In or Slide-In Cooktop
A cooktop sits inside a cutout in a continuous countertop. The countertop runs underneath the cooktop, with the cooktop's frame or glass top resting on the countertop surface.
What the fabricator does:
- Cuts a rectangular opening in the slab per manufacturer specs
- Rounds the inside corners (prevents stress cracking)
- Polishes the cutout edges (visible when cooktop is removed for cleaning)
Comparison
| Feature | Freestanding Range | Drop-In Cooktop |
|---|---|---|
| Countertop cutout needed | No | Yes |
| Countertop continuous | No (gap for range) | Yes (countertop surrounds cooktop) |
| Appearance | Range visible as separate appliance | Cooktop integrated into counter |
| Fabrication cost | Standard (finished end edges) | +$150-$350 for cutout |
| Flexibility to change appliance | Can swap same-width ranges easily | New cooktop must fit existing cutout |
How Cooktop Cutouts Are Made
Step 1: Get the Spec Sheet
Every cooktop manufacturer publishes an installation specification that includes:
- Required cutout width and depth
- Corner radius requirements
- Minimum countertop thickness
- Clearance requirements (distance from cutout edge to cooktop frame)
- Support requirements (how the cooktop rests on the stone)
Step 2: Template Day
The fabricator records the cooktop location and verifies:
- Cabinet support underneath (the cooktop base cabinet must have adequate structure)
- Distance from walls and other countertop features
- That the spec sheet dimensions work with the actual cabinet opening
Step 3: Fabrication
The cutout is made on a CNC machine or bridge saw:
- The rectangle is cut to spec dimensions
- Inside corners are rounded (minimum 1/2" radius is typical, some specs require more)
- Edges are polished
- The cutout piece (the "plug") is set aside or discarded
Step 4: Installation
The countertop is installed with the cutout in position over the base cabinet. The cooktop is set into the cutout separately (usually by the appliance installer or electrician, not the countertop crew).
Standard Cooktop Cutout Dimensions
Cooktop sizes vary by model, but here are common ranges:
| Cooktop Width (Visible) | Typical Cutout Width | Typical Cutout Depth |
|---|---|---|
| 30" | 28-1/4" to 29-1/2" | 19" to 21" |
| 36" | 33-1/2" to 34-3/4" | 19" to 21" |
| 48" | 44-1/4" to 46" | 21" to 23" |
These are approximations. Every model is different. A 30" GE cooktop and a 30" Bosch cooktop may have different cutout requirements. Always use the specific model's installation manual.
Critical Considerations
Corner Radius
Inside corners on a cutout create stress concentration points in the stone. Sharp 90-degree corners significantly increase the chance of the countertop cracking -- especially in granite, which is brittle.
Best practice: Round all inside corners with at least a 1/2" radius. Many fabricators use 3/4" to 1" radius for additional safety. CNC machines handle this automatically.
Minimum Material Between Cutout and Edge
The stone between the cooktop cutout and the countertop edge (or another cutout) must be thick enough to maintain structural integrity.
General guidelines:
- Minimum 2" from cutout edge to countertop front edge
- Minimum 3" from cutout edge to sink cutout
- Minimum 1.5" from cutout edge to a seam
These are general rules -- specific materials and layouts may require more.
Heat Considerations
For quartz countertops, the area around a cooktop cutout is a heat concern. While the cooktop directs heat upward, some thermal energy transfers to the countertop edge. Fabricators working with quartz should:
- Ensure the specified air gap is maintained
- Consider applying a heat-reflective strip along the cutout edge
- Inform the homeowner about heat precautions
For granite and quartzite, heat around the cooktop cutout is not a concern.
Support Underneath
The countertop around the cutout is essentially a frame. Without the center mass of stone, the surrounding material must support itself and the cooktop. Ensure:
- Full perimeter support from the cabinet below
- No unsupported spans greater than the material can handle
- Adequate support for heavy cooktops (some gas models weigh 50+ lbs)
For fabricators, cooktop cutout dimensions are one of the highest-stakes measurements in any kitchen job. A cutout that's too small means the cooktop won't fit. A cutout that's too large means the cooktop frame doesn't cover the gap. SlabWise's Template Verification cross-references appliance specs against cutout measurements to catch errors before fabrication.
Cost of a Cooktop Cutout
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard rectangular cutout | $150-$300 |
| Cutout with polished edges | $200-$350 |
| On-site cutout modification | $200-$500 |
| Re-fabrication for wrong cutout | $500-$2,000+ (depending on material) |
The cutout cost is usually included in or added to the overall fabrication quote. It's not the most expensive line item, but getting it wrong creates the most expensive problems.
FAQ
Does a freestanding range need a countertop cutout? No. A freestanding range sits in a gap between two countertop sections. The countertop terminates at each side of the range opening.
Who makes the cooktop cutout -- the fabricator or the appliance installer? The countertop fabricator makes the cutout during slab fabrication at their shop. The appliance installer or electrician sets the cooktop into the cutout later.
How much does a cooktop cutout cost? Typically $150-$350 as part of the fabrication quote. This includes cutting, corner rounding, and edge finishing.
What happens if the cooktop cutout is the wrong size? If too small, it can sometimes be enlarged on-site (risky and expensive). If too large, you'll need a countertop section replacement or a different cooktop model. Either way, it's costly.
Can you cut a cooktop hole in granite after installation? It's possible but risky. On-site cutting with a circular saw or router can be done, but the vibration and dust are significant. Shop fabrication is always preferred.
What clearance does a cooktop need from the countertop edge? Most manufacturers require 1/8" to 1/4" between the cutout edge and the cooktop frame. This allows for thermal expansion and installation tolerance.
Can you put a cooktop in a quartz countertop? Yes. Cooktops are routinely installed in quartz countertops. The air gap between the cooktop and the quartz, plus the cooktop's insulation, keeps the stone within safe temperature ranges.
Do you need to seal the cutout edges? For granite or marble, sealing the cutout edges is good practice since they're polished but exposed to moisture from cooking. Quartz cutout edges don't need sealing.
Can I change my cooktop to a different size later? Only if the new cooktop requires the same or smaller cutout. A larger cooktop requires a larger cutout, which means re-fabrication. Smaller cooktops may need a filler ring.
What if my cooktop model is discontinued and I need a replacement? Measure the existing cutout precisely and shop for a new cooktop with matching or compatible cutout dimensions. Many standard sizes are consistent across brands.
Get Cutout Dimensions Right the First Time
For fabricators, wrong cooktop cutouts are among the most expensive errors in the shop. SlabWise's Template Verification cross-checks appliance specs against your template measurements automatically -- catching size mismatches before the CNC starts.
Sources
- Natural Stone Institute -- Countertop Cutout Fabrication Guidelines
- GE Appliances -- Cooktop Installation Specifications
- Bosch Home Appliances -- Built-In Cooktop Cutout Dimensions
- Samsung -- Cooktop Installation Manuals and Templates
- Kitchen & Bath Business -- Cooktop and Countertop Coordination Guide
- Fine Homebuilding -- Cutting Stone Countertop Openings