How do you measure an over sink cutting board?

Measuring an over sink cutting board is an important step before purchasing or making one. Having accurate measurements ensures the cutting board will properly fit over your sink and provide enough workspace. There are a few key measurements to take to get the right sized cutting board.

Why do you need to measure?

Measuring is crucial for a couple reasons:

• To ensure proper fit – An over sink cutting board needs to adequately cover the sink bowl opening. If the board is too small, it will slide down into the sink. If it’s too large, it won’t properly sit on the counter ledges.
• For comfortable workspace – The cutting board should provide enough surface area on all sides of the sink for food prep tasks. Measuring first will ensure you get a board large enough for your needs.
• To get the right size if making your own – For a custom made board, proper measuring is needed to cut the board to the right dimensions.

Not measuring can lead to frustration, wasted material if making your own, or the need to return a bought board that doesn’t fit right. So it’s worth the small effort to measure first.

What measurements are needed?

These key measurements are needed:

• Sink opening length and width – This ensures the cutting board fully covers the sink’s outer rim dimensions.
• Counter overhang on each side of the sink – This provides space for the board to rest on the counter ledges.
• Desired front and back overhang – The amount of board you want sticking out front and back of the sink for prep space.

Optionally, also measure any rear faucets or soap dispensers that the board would need to accommodate.

Tips for getting accurate measurements

Follow these tips when measuring to get precise numbers:

• Use a soft measuring tape – A soft vinyl tape can bend to measure curved sink edges easier than a stiff metal one.
• Remove any sinks inserts or accessories – This exposes the true sink opening for accurate measuring.
• Measure inner and outer sink rims – This accounts for any difference between the two.
• Measure front and back of sink overhangs – Side counter overhangs may differ, so measure each side.
• Check for level – Make sure counters on each side of the sink are level. Any difference in height will affect the fit.
• Record all numbers – Write down all measurements to refer back to when shopping or making the board.

Getting very precise measurements will ensure your new over sink cutting board fits perfect and provides ample workspace.

How to measure a rectangular sink

For a rectangular sink, the key measurements needed are:

• Length – Measure the sink’s length from the inner and outer rim at the front and back. Record the larger of the two.
• Width – Take the sink’s width from side to side for both inner and outer rims. Note the larger measurement.
• Side overhang – Measure from the outer sink edge to the counter end on each side.
• Front and back overhang – Measure desired overhang in front and behind the sink.

Here is a visual guide for measuring a rectangular sink:

Measurement	Description
Length	Front to back rim measurement (use larger of inner or outer rim)
Width	Side to side rim measurement (use larger of inner or outer rim)
Side overhang	Counter space from outer rim to edge on each side
Front & back overhang	Desired extra space in front and behind sink

Measuring instructions for a rectangular sink

Follow these steps to measure a rectangular sink:

1. Clear sink of any inserts, racks or accessories.
2. Using a soft tape, measure front to back length along inner sink rim. Record length.
3. Repeat length measurement along outer rim. Note larger of two lengths.
4. Measure side to side width along inner rim. Record width.
5. Repeat width measurement along outer rim. Note larger of two widths.
6. Measure from outer rim to counter end on right side. Record right overhang.
7. Repeat for left side overhang measurement.
8. Decide on desired front and back overhang size. Record each.

These measurements provide the needed dimensions for a properly sized rectangular sink cutting board.

How to measure an oval or round sink

For oval and round sinks, these measurements are key:

• Length – Longest measurement from front to back
• Width – Widest measurement from side to side
• Side overhang – Rim to counter end on each side
• Front and back overhang – Extra space wanted in front and back

Here are the steps to measure an oval or round sink:

1. Clear sink of any accessories or inserts.
2. Measure front to back length across center of sink for longest dimension.
3. Measure side to side width across center for widest dimension.
4. On each side, measure from rim to counter end for overhang.
5. Determine desired front and back overhang size.

For oval sinks, taking multiple length and width measurements at different spots can ensure you find the maximum.

Measuring for a corner sink

A corner sink brings additional measuring challenges. Here are the key measurements needed:

• Front to back length
• Side to side width at front of sink
• Side overhang measurement of adjacent counter
• Diagonal corner to corner measurement
• Desired front and side overhang allowance

And the steps to measure a corner sink accurately:

1. Clear sink of all accessories and inserts.
2. Measure front to back length through center of sink.
3. Measure side to side width at front of sink.
4. On open side, measure rim to counter end for overhang.
5. Measure diagonal corner to corner length.
6. Determine desired front and side overhang dimensions.

The corner to corner measurement ensures the cutting board will angle correctly to fit.

Allowance for sink accessories

If your sink has a rear faucet, soap dispenser, or other accessories, make sure to allow space for them in your measurements.

• Measure location of each accessory from sink edges.
• Measure clearance needed around accessory – this should be allowed for in the cutting board dimensions.

You want to prevent the cutting board from interfering with being able to use the sink accessories.

Allowance for sink depth

Standard sink depths are between 5-9 inches. Make sure to select or make a cutting board at least 1-2 inches deeper than your sink basin. This helps stabilize the board and prevent it tipping into the sink when in use.

Choosing cutting board size

Once you have all your measurements, determine the ideal cutting board size:

• Length – Use longest sink length + front and back overhangs.
• Width – Use widest sink width + side overhangs.
• Depth – 1 to 2 inches deeper than sink.

This will provide a properly-sized cutting board that fits your sink while offering ample workspace.

Tips for measuring sink base cabinets

For a cutting board that fits flush with the cabinet front, you’ll need to measure your sink base cabinet too.

• Measure cabinet opening width.
• Measure front to back cabinet depth.
• Subtract 3/4 to 1 inch from width for fit.
• Subtract 1/2 inch from depth for fit.

Trim bought boards or build custom boards to these base cabinet dimensions for a streamlined look.

How to measure for a custom cutting board

For a homemade cutting board, precise measurements are crucial. Follow these steps:

1. Measure sink length, width, and depth as previously described.
2. Determine desired overhang allowances.
3. Measure sink base cabinet opening width and depth.
4. Sketch cutting board shape using all measurements.
5. Consider edge profiles – rounded vs. square edges.
6. Select cutting board materials and thickness based on size needed.
7. Cut board materials to measured dimensions.
8. Smooth edges and finish board.

Having accurate measurements allows you to custom cut a board to fit your sink and cabinets perfectly.

Standard cutting board sizes

If purchasing a pre-made board, keep these typical sizes in mind:

Size	Length Range	Width Range
Small	12 – 14 inches	5 – 8 inches
Medium	15 – 17 inches	10 – 12 inches
Large	18 – 21 inches	13 – 16 inches
Extra Large	22 – 24 inches	17 – 19 inches

Select a pre-fab board size based on your measurements that allows adequate overhang space.

Installing your new over sink cutting board

Once you’ve purchased or constructed a properly sized cutting board, follow these tips for installation:

• Clear counters and thoroughly clean sink and surrounding surfaces.
• Check board dimensions against sink to confirm fit.
• Set board centered evenly over sink basin.
• Adjust board so overhang is even on all sides.
• Run water and test that board is stable and doesn’t shift or slide.
• Seal or treat board if needed per manufacturer instructions.

Take care lifting heavier wood or thick boards into place. Get help positioning large boards if needed.

Caring for your over sink cutting board

Once installed, follow these care tips:

• Wash frequently with hot water and mild soap.
• Sanitize weekly using a bleach solution.
• Re-seal or re-treat board periodically as needed.
• Avoid prolonged soaking that can damage wood boards.
• Scrape off food debris versus cutting into board surface.
• Avoid harsh cleaners that strip protective finishes.

Proper care helps preserve your board and prevent bacteria growth. Replace boards that show excessive scoring or deterioration.

Conclusion

Measuring correctly before buying or making an over sink cutting board ensures you get a board that fits right and provides ample workspace. Take time to accurately measure your sink length, width, depth, overhang allowance, and base cabinet opening. This results in a custom sized cutting board optimized for your kitchen. Carefully installing and maintaining the board helps provide safe food preparation and longevity of use.