Reusing quartz countertops can be a great way to save money on your kitchen or bathroom remodel. Quartz is an engineered stone made from ground quartz crystals held together with resin. It is an increasingly popular countertop material due to its durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns. With proper removal and installation, quartz countertops can be reused in a new location. Here is a complete guide on reusing quartz countertops.
An Overview of Reusing Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are ideal candidates for reuse for several reasons:
- Durability – Quartz is extremely durable and scratch-resistant, so countertops that are in good condition can withstand being removed and reinstalled.
- Non-Porous – Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed. This makes reinstallation much simpler.
- Modular Design – Many quartz countertops are made up of smaller slab sections seamlessly joined together. This modular design makes removing and reusing countertops much easier.
- Neutral Colors – Popular quartz colors like whites, grays, and blacks are timeless. Outdated color patterns are less of an issue with reusable quartz.
With proper precautions, high-quality quartz countertops can be reused in a new kitchen or bath for a fraction of the price of buying new slabs. The process involves carefully removing the countertops, transporting them to the new location, and professionally installing them. The main considerations are avoiding damage during removal and having sufficient support in the new location.
Determining if Your Quartz Countertops are Reusable
Before going through the trouble of removing and reinstalling your quartz countertops, examine them closely to determine if they are good candidates for reuse. Look for the following:
Condition – Countertops with excessive scratches, stains, burns, or other damage are not worth trying to reuse. Quartz can withstand normal wear and tear, but excessive damage weakens the structural integrity.
Thickness – Standard quartz thickness is 3/4 inch for floor applications and 1 1/4 inches for horizontal surfaces like countertops. Thinner pieces are more prone to cracking during transport or installation.
Seams – Examine seams between slabs. Cracks or gaps indicate poor initial installation. Widening seams make countertops prone to further damage.
Edges – Make sure edges are not chipped or cracked. Damaged edges won’t withstand a second installation. New edges can be re-fabricated but at added cost.
Sink Cutouts – Improperly cut sink holes weaken the structural integrity of the slabs. Cracks radiating from sink cutouts mean a countertop should not be reused.
Color/Pattern – While neutral quartz colors are ideal for reuse, outdated or bold patterns may not be worth the effort to salvage. Make sure the aesthetic will work in the new space.
If your countertops pass this inspection, the next step is safely removing them.
How to Remove Quartz Countertops for Reuse
Removing quartz countertops without damaging them takes patience and care. Follow these steps:
1. Disconnect Sinks and Accessories
Start by disconnecting sinks, soap dispensers, and anything else attached to the countertops. Remove sink bowls from underneath if possible. Shut off water supply lines.
2. Clean Surfaces
Clear countertop surfaces completely. Remove any residual caulk, sealant, or adhesives. This prevents contaminating the surface during transport.
3. Outline Cuts
Outline intended cuts with a marker. Avoid removing more than necessary. Make straight cuts to get clean edges.
4. Cut Seams (if needed)
For countertops made up of smaller pieces, each section can be removed individually. Use a diamond blade wet saw to cut through seams and free each section.
5. Protect Edges
Apply painter’s tape around the edges to prevent chips and cracks during handling. Also tape any seams between sections.
6. Make Final Cuts
Make necessary cuts along walls, corners, and any other contact points. Cut just the adhesive or caulk, not deep into the substrate. Go slowly to prevent cracking.
7. Carefully Lift and Remove
Once fully disconnected, lift each section individually and transport immediately to avoid damage. Lifting dollies or suction cups can help maneuver the heavy slabs. Get help moving larger pieces.
8. Transport Horizontally
Never carry slabs vertically. Transport them horizontally on flat carts, keeping supported fully along the bottom.
9. Store Safely
Keep slabs supported flat in a clean, climate-controlled environment until ready for reinstallation. Avoid dirt, moisture, or standing water on quartz surfaces.
Follow these precautions closely and your quartz countertops have an excellent chance of being reused successfully.
Preparing the New Location for Quartz Countertop Installation
Once removed from the original location, preparing the new kitchen or bath is critical for proper quartz countertop installation. Proper support and seam placement are vital.
Ensure Adequate Cabinet Support
Cabinets must offer uniform support across the entire countertop. Any sagging, gaps, or uneven areas in cabinetry will transfer to the countertops. This can lead to cracks or weakened seams. Reface or replace cabinets if needed to provide flawless support.
Level Substrates
The substrate or base surface must be completely level before installing countertops. Use shims as needed to level wall framing, cabinets, and base materials.
Check for Plumb Walls
Walls should be checked for plumb (perfectly vertical). Out of plumb walls will result in poor seams and gaps between countertops and walls.
Plan Seams Carefully
Seams between slabs are the weakest points. Minimize seams and place them intelligently avoiding high-stress areas like sinks and cooktops. Get professional advice on the best seam placement.
Select Adhesives Wisely
The adhesive beneath quartz slabs helps evenly distribute stress. Urethane-based adhesives provide flexibility and shock absorption. Consult manufacturers to select compatible adhesives.
Allow Proper Overhang
Adhere to manufacturer guidelines for maximum overhang beyond cabinet and drawer fronts. Overhang provides aesthetic appeal but too much creates instability.
Preparing the new space properly before installation provides the best chance of seamlessly integrating reused quartz countertops.
Hiring Countertop Installation Professionals
Quartz countertop installation is difficult, precision work best left to experienced professionals. Attempting to DIY reused countertops almost always leads to cracks, uneven seams, and other damage. Professional installers have specialized tools and techniques to reuse quartz successfully.
Seek Experienced Installers
Ask installers specifically about their experience with quartz reuse. Look for demonstrated knowledge of critical details like substrate prep, adhesive selection, and seam placement.
Request References
Reputable installers should provide references from past quartz reuse jobs. Speaking with previous customers gives great insight into expected results.
Confirm Proper Licensing
Quartz installation requires expertise in multiple trades. Confirm installers carry all legally required licenses and insurance for your protection.
Require Onsite Templating
Slabs should be templated onsite after cabinets are installed. Offsite templating with reused slabs often results in gaps, misfits, and uneven seams after install.
Specify Adhesive Brands
Discuss adhesives with installers and specify quality reusable brands known for flexibility and strength. Urethane or latex/acrylic adhesives work well.
With attentive project management and clear communication, professional installers can flawlessly reuse quartz countertops, saving thousands over new slabs.
What to Expect Cost-Wise for Reused Quartz Countertops
While reusing quartz is cheaper than buying new slabs, costs still add up. Here are typical costs for reused quartz countertops:
- Removal – $200-$1000 depending on size, complexity, and whether performed by homeowners or contractors
- Transport – $100-$500 depending on distance and size of slabs
- Edge Refabrication – $40-$100 per linear foot if edges are damaged
- New Sink Cutouts – $100+ per cutout if old sinks won’t be reused
- Adhesives – $50-$200 depending on slab square footage
- Professional Installation – $2000+ for typical 10 foot kitchen section
Total for 10′ Kitchen – $2500-$4000, compared to $6000-$12000 for new quartz countertops.
While not cheap, proper reuse of quartz slabs can recoup 50-70% of original investment, making it worthwhile in many homes.
FAQs About Reusing Quartz Countertops
Many homeowners have additional questions about reusing quartz countertops:
Does reused quartz need to be resealed?
No, quartz does not need sealing during reuse. It is non-porous and unaffected by transport or reinstallation.
Can you reuse quartz counters outdoors?
Yes, quartz has good freeze-thaw resistance and UV stability, making it an excellent reusable choice for outdoor kitchens.
Do new cutouts weaken reused quartz?
With proper edge treatment, new cutouts for sinks or cooktops do not weaken slabs noticeably during reuse.
Does reused quartz need new edges?
Not necessarily. If edges are undamaged, they can be reused. Some choose new edges for aesthetic reasons at added cost.
Do marks or stains affect reuse?
Surface marks have no impact on reuse. Stains can potentially be removed via grinding and polishing at added cost.
Conclusion
Reusing quartz countertops instead of sending them to the landfill can be an economical, eco-friendly kitchen or bath remodel solution. With careful removal, transportation, and professional installation, quality quartz slabs can serve you well in a new space. Consider countertop reuse if you are looking for that coveted quartz durability and aesthetic without the expense of brand new slabs. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect your existing installation and hire experienced professionals to ensure success. With the right approach, reusing your quartz offers savings and satisfaction.