Quartz countertops can absolutely be installed in mobile homes, providing a beautiful and durable surface for kitchens and bathrooms. Here is a comprehensive guide on quartz countertop options for mobile homes, installation considerations, costs, pros and cons, care and maintenance, and more.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments. It is one of the most popular countertop materials due to its many benefits:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists stains, heat, and bacteria growth
- Comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so liquids don’t penetrate the surface
- Seamless appearance with no grout lines
- Adds value and style to any home
Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed and is less prone to damage. This makes it an ideal countertop material for mobile homes which are subject to more movement and vibrations during transportation.
Pros Of Quartz For Mobile Homes
There are many advantages to choosing quartz for a mobile home:
Durability
Quartz is nearly indestructible and can withstand years of wear and tear. Heavy objects can be placed on it without concern of cracks or chips. This durability is crucial for mobile homes that are transported from one location to another.
Easy Maintenance
Quartz requires very little maintenance. Simply wiping with a damp cloth is enough to keep it clean in most cases. It does not need polishing or sealing like natural stone. This makes it a practical option for mobile home living where convenience is key.
Resists Damage
Unlike other materials, quartz resists scratches, stains, heat damage and more. This prevents burns or permanent markings over time. Spills and messes can be wiped away without leaving a trace.
Nonporous
With quartz countertops, liquids will not soak in and stain the surface. This is ideal for mobile homes where leaks or flooding incidents may occur during transport.
Stylish Appearance
Quartz comes in a huge selection of colors, patterns, and finishes. This allows it to elevate the look of any mobile home kitchen or bathroom. It provides a high-end appearance without the high cost.
Adds Value
Upgrading to quartz countertops can increase the resale value of a mobile home. They give buyers the impression of luxury and style.
Seamless Look
Quartz slabs are manufactured to be installed seamlessly with no visible grout lines. This creates a smooth, uniform appearance.
Considerations For Mobile Home Installation
Installing quartz in a mobile home is similar to a conventional house but there are some specific factors to keep in mind:
Allow for Expansion and Contraction
Mobile homes flex and shift during transport so the countertops need room to expand and contract ever so slightly. Leave a 1/8 inch gap between the quartz and walls or other surfaces. Use silicone caulk to fill the gaps after installation.
Support UnderLAYERS
Reinforce cabinets and walls with extra support bars and plywood underlayment prior to installation. This prevents sagging or separation from the additional weight. Screw the cabinets into the wall studs for maximum stability.
Hire a Pro
Due to the special considerations, it is advisable to hire a professional quartz fabricator and installer who is experienced with mobile homes. They can ensure proper support and allowances are made during template and install.
Check Wall Alignment
Walls in mobile homes are not always perfectly straight. Check for any misalignment and discuss with the installer prior to slabs being cut. They can make adjustments in the template to account for any variances.
Allow Time Before Transport
It is recommended to allow several days after install before transporting the mobile home. This allows the silicone caulk and adhesives to fully cure and bond properly. Preventing movement right away minimizes the risk of shifting or cracks.
Use Flexible Caulk
Around sinks, cooktops, and joints, use a flexible silicone caulk. This allows for expansion and contraction without cracking or pulling away. Traditional hard caulks may crack under the stresses of a mobile home.
Cost Of Quartz Countertops
Quartz is priced in the mid-to-upper tier of countertop options. Expect to pay:
- Material cost: $50 – $100 per square foot
- Installation: $40 – $100 per square foot
- Total estimated cost: $100 – $200 per square foot
The total cost depends on the thickness and grade of the quartz slab, edge profiles, complexity of the project, and local labor rates. For a typical 30 square foot mobile home kitchen, expect a total cost between $3,000 – $6,000.
Quartz can cost slightly more to install in a mobile home due to the need for additional support and customized fabrication. However, it remains an affordable option to transform the living space.
Pros And Cons Of Quartz
Here is a summary of the key benefits and drawbacks to consider:
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Low maintenance
- Resists stains, scratches, heat
- Non-porous
- Wide variety of colors/styles
- Seamless appearance
- Adds value to mobile home
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Higher cost than some materials
- May need supplemental supports
- Can chip if subjected to impact
- Takes skill to fabricate and install
- Resin content is not eco-friendly
How To Care And Maintain Quartz Countertops
Caring for quartz requires very little effort:
- For everyday cleaning, wipe with a soft damp cloth or paper towel
- Use a mild soap and water solution if needed for dirt and grime
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, pads, and sponges as they may dull the surface
- Rinse thoroughly after using any cleaner products
- Blot up spills immediately to prevent staining
- For dried stuck-on spills, use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape away
- Reseal around sinks, faucets, and joints annually with silicone caulk
- Avoid exposing to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners etc
With simple care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for decades in a mobile home. Be sure to use trivets or hot pads under hot pans and pots to prevent burning. While quartz is highly scratch resistant, cutting directly on the surface should be avoided.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about installing quartz countertops in mobile homes:
Is quartz too heavy for a mobile home?
Quartz is heavier than laminate but not generally too heavy for a mobile home if properly supported. Have cabinets reinforced and use at least 3/4 inch thickness for stability. The structure should be evaluated to ensure it can bear the load.
Does quartz need to be secured to the wall?
It is not mandatory, but recommended to attach a bracket or clips to secure the backsplash to the wall. This prevents it from pulling away if the home shifts and flexes during transport.
What about using an undermount sink with quartz?
Undermount sinks add a nice finished appearance. The quartz will need to be fabricated to allow for the sink cutout. The sink then gets attached from underneath, so no lip or edges show. Brackets help support the weight.
Can quartz crack during transportation?
It is unlikely quartz will actually crack but it may chip if subjected to a hard impact or drop. Preventing motion right after install allows the caulk and adhesives to fully cure. Travel slowly on roads and reduce vibrations as much as possible.
Is quartz easy to repair if damaged?
Small chips can often be smoothed and polished. But extensive cracks or damage are difficult to repair on quartz. One advantage is damaged sections can be removed and replaced if needed since it is manufactured in slabs.
How thick should the quartz be?
For mobile homes, a thickness of at least 3/4 inch is recommended. This gives it the structural integrity to withstand shifts without cracking. Edges and seams are also more durable at this thickness.
Should I hire a specialist contractor or DIY?
It is highly advisable to hire a professional quartz fabricator and installer that has experience with mobile homes. They know the special installation requirements and will get the templating and fabrication done right the first time.
What edge profiles can be done on quartz?
Quartz edges can be finished in different styles such as standard square, bullnose, ogee, and beveled. Decorative edges add aesthetic appeal. The edges can be polished, rounded, or patterned.
What if my walls are uneven?
If the walls are very uneven it can make installation challenging. Shims may be needed to account for any protrusions. For dips and gaps in the walls, use color-matched caulk for the best final appearance.
How soon after install can I use the countertops?
It is best to avoid use for at least 24 hours after installation. Allow the adhesive to fully cure before subjecting to any pressure or impacts. After that, normal use can resume. Just use trivets for hot items.
Conclusion
Installing quartz countertops can help elevate the look and luxury of any mobile home kitchen or bathroom. While heavy, quartz can be installed properly with some additional considerations and reinforcements. The durability and easy maintenance of quartz make it an ideal surface for mobile home living. With proper installation and care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years, while increasing the value of the mobile home. Consider upgrading to quartz to get designer style at an affordable price.