Quartz countertops are growing in popularity for home kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. With their durability, low maintenance, and customization options, it’s no wonder many homeowners are interested in installing quartz themselves. Here is a comprehensive guide on ordering quartz slabs and doing a DIY installation.
Introduction
Quartz countertops, made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, have become a top choice for home upgrades. Quartz is an engineered stone that offers the look of natural stone without some of the drawbacks. The customization, non-porous surface, stain resistance, and low maintenance requirements make quartz an ideal countertop material for DIYers.
While quartz slabs can be heavy and require careful installation, with proper planning and preparation, installation can definitely be a DIY project. Carefully following each step of the process is key to achieving a successful quartz countertop installation.
Steps to Ordering Quartz Slabs
Ordering the quartz slabs is the first step in the process. Carefully measure your existing countertops and follow these steps:
- Choose a supplier – Local home improvement stores may carry quartz, but a specialized stone supplier will have more options. Get quotes from different suppliers.
- Select a color and style – There are hundreds of color and pattern options. View samples in different lighting. Darker colors show scratches less.
- Choose the thickness – Thicker 3cm slabs are more durable. 2cm is fine for most home kitchens.
- Measure precisely – Give the supplier exact measurements to ensure your slabs fit properly. Include sinks, faucets, and any special cuts needed.
- Order extra – Order 10-15% more than your measurements to account for errors or breakage. Extra can be saved for repairs later.
- Confirm your timeline – Verify when the slabs will be delivered so you’re ready for installation. Most suppliers take 2-4 weeks.
Preparing for Installation
Installing quartz countertops requires careful preparation and the right tools. Be sure to:
- Watch tutorial videos – Study installation videos first so you understand each step.
- Clear your counters – Remove everything from your countertops and clean the surfaces.
- Assemble supplies – Have on hand adhesives, silicone, shims, a circular saw with diamond blade, clamps, rags, and denatured alcohol.
- Reinforce cabinets – Quartz is heavy, so add braces or screws to strengthen cabinet frames.
- Create support – Use 2x4s secured to walls to support seams if needed.
- Carefully review instructions – Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Once your slabs arrive, be prepared to carefully follow these installation steps:
1. Dry Fitting the Slabs
- Lay out the slabs based on a detailed drawing of how they should fit.
- Ensure overhangs align with cabinet dimensions.
- Mark the slabs and cabinets for cutting if needed.
- Label each slab with a number and mark the placement order.
2. Cutouts and Special Shaping
- Make sink, faucet, and any other cutouts using a circular saw with diamond blade. Make small holes with a drill.
- Cut and shape slabs following measurements. Cut with the decorative side down.
- Smooth cut edges with 100-grit sandpaper so seams are even.
3. Cleaning and Prepping the Slabs
- Once cutting is complete, wipe all surfaces with denatured alcohol.
- Apply painter’s tape along the wall, backsplash, and edges for glue overflow.
- Thoroughly mix two-part epoxy adhesive per manufacturer instructions.
4. Applying Adhesive and Setting Slabs
- Spread adhesive evenly over cabinets and slabs using a trowel.
- Carefully lift and position the first slab in place, aligning edges and pressing firmly. Use shims if needed.
- Repeat for remaining slabs, sliding into position and removing any adhesive squeeze-out.
5. Curing Adhesive and Finishing
- Use C-clamps along the seams to tightly secure while adhesive cures. Wipe away excess glue.
- Allow the adhesive to fully cure following manufacturer guidelines, usually 24-48 hours untouched.
- Remove tape, shims, and clamps once cured. Clean surfaces and seal seams with silicone.
6. Backsplash and Finishing Touches
- Cut and install matching quartz or tile backsplash.
- Reinstall sink and faucet. Make final connections.
- Give a final clean and seal to complete the installation.
DIY Quartz Countertop Cost
Quartz slab prices range $50-100 per square foot. The DIY installation cost is roughly $10-20 per square foot. In total, expect to spend $60-120 per square foot for materials and DIY installation. The investment pays off since quartz requires very little maintenance over many years.
Tips for Success
Follow these tips to ensure your DIY quartz countertop installation goes smoothly:
- Carefully check slab dimensions when they arrive. Measure twice, cut once.
- Work slowly and methodically. Quartz is unforgiving and cracks easily.
- Keep slabs face down whenever moving or carrying them.
- Use a helper for lifting. Slabs can be very heavy and brittle.
- Carefully follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions.
- Patience is key. Rushing leads to cracks, leaks, or adhesion failures.
Conclusion
Installing quartz countertops as a DIY project takes careful planning, patience, and attention to detail. Ordering the slabs precisely, assembling the proper tools, thoroughly prepping your counters, and methodically following each step of the installation process can lead to a successful outcome. With some time invested upfront and care taken with each stage, you can save on installation costs and end up with beautiful new quartz countertops installed by your own hands.