Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Made from engineered stone, quartz counters offer an attractive, low-maintenance, and durable surface. But while the countertops themselves are manufactured offsite, proper installation is critical to ensure they are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Here is an in-depth look at how quartz countertops are installed.
Selecting the Right Fabricator and Installer
Installing quartz counters is not a DIY project. Proper training and experience are required, so be sure to hire professional fabricators and installers. When selecting a company, consider the following:
- Experience with quartz – Look for installers who regularly work with engineered stone and are familiar with how it differs from natural stone. An inexperienced installer is more likely to make errors cutting, fastening, and sealing the material.
- Familiarity with your product – Certain quartz brands, like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone, have specific installation requirements. Choose a company that has experience with your selected product.
- Reputation and reviews – Read reviews and ask to see examples of past quartz installation projects to vet the company. Reputable fabricators and installers should have a long work history and satisfied customers willing to recommend them.
- Full-service – Select a company that handles everything from templating and fabrication to delivery and install. Using multiple companies can lead to miscommunications and errors.
Pre-Installation Inspection and Preparation
Before installation day, the countertop company will send someone to complete templating and assess the installation site. This is an important pre-installation step. Here’s what they’ll be looking for:
- Condition of cabinets/walls – Any issues like moisture damage, leaks, warped surfaces, or leveling problems will need to be addressed before countertop installation.
- Placement of appliances – The installer will confirm that the sink, stove, and other appliances leave proper clearance for cutting and placing the quartz slabs.
- Measurements – The installer will take precise measurements and create a template to follow for cutting the slabs.
- Seams and edges – They will determine the placement of seams between slabs based on the template and note any special edge profiles.
Once the templating is complete, the fabricator will cut and polish the slabs. On installation day, they will deliver the prepped slabs and any accessories like sinks.
As a homeowner, here are a few things you can do to prepare for quartz installation day:
- Clear countertop area of appliances, cookware, debris, etc.
- Have electrical and plumbing hooked up for appliance installation.
- Designate an installation path from the doorway to the kitchen.
- Ensure the installers will have access to power outlets and water.
Installation Day Process
The installation process will vary slightly based on kitchen layout and quartz brand. But in general, these are the key steps professional installers will take to safely and effectively install your new quartz countertops:
1. Inspect Slabs and Test Fit
The installers will unpack the slabs upon arrival and inspect them for any imperfections or damage that may have occurred during transportation. They will then do a “dry fit” by placing the slabs in position on the cabinets without any adhesive to ensure they fit according to measurements. The installers will make any final adjustments to the slabs or cutouts needed for a proper fit.
2. Add Build Up and Support Brackets
Most installers will apply a substrate like plywood or high-density fiberboard to build up and strengthen the cabinets. This provides added support for the heavy surface. They may also install metal brackets around walls, islands, seams, and appliances for additional reinforcement.
3. Clean and Apply Adhesive
The counters andcabinets will be wiped clean and dry before adhesive is applied. Installers commonly use a color-matched epoxy or polyurethane. This is spread evenly across the surface where the slabs will adhere. The adhesive must be applied carefully to prevent oozing up through seams after the slabs are set.
4. Set Slabs and Remove Excess Adhesive
Following the measurements on the template, the installers will carefully lower each slab into place and press it down firmly. They use shims and weights to keep the slab aligned and flush during installation. Once secured, any adhesive squeeze-out along the seams or edges is immediately cleaned away with a solvent like denatured alcohol.
5. Seal Seams and Apply Finishing Touches
Visible seams between slabs are sealed using a color-matched epoxy filler to create a smooth, seamless appearance. The installers also remove any shipping brackets or supports and give the counters a final clean. At this point, the client can inspect the new installation and point out any imperfections to be corrected.
6. Connect Accessories and Complete Integration
The final step is to integrate any sinks, faucets, soap dispensers, and other accessories that were purchased with the counters. The installers will connect plumbing and electrical as needed. They can also install the accompanying backsplashes and handle any custom edge profiles or decorative touches.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
While quartz counters are highly durable and low maintenance compared to other surfaces, some simple care is required to keep them looking like new after installation:
- Use coasters under drinks and trivets for hot pans to prevent marks and burns.
- Clean spills promptly with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.
- For stubborn stains, apply a non-abrasive cleaner designed for quartz.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive pads.
- Reseal seams every 2-3 years with an epoxy filler.
- Use a cutting board to protect the surface when chopping, cutting, or prepping food.
With proper installation by professionals and ongoing maintenance, quartz offers decades of beauty and durability as a countertop surface. Following these best practices for installation and care will help homeowners get the most out of their investment.
FAQs About Installing Quartz Countertops
Quartz installation involves some unique considerations compared to other countertop materials. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Does Quartz Need To Be Sealed Like Granite?
No, quartz does not require regular sealing like natural stone. The resin binder makes quartz non-porous so it does not need sealants to prevent staining.
How Thick Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz slabs are typically 0.5 to 1.25 inches thick. Thicker slabs of 1 to 1.25 inches are often used for kitchen counters needing more support.
How Much Overhang Is Needed for Support?
Quartz installers recommend a 1/4 to 1/2 inch overhang off the cabinet base for proper support. Anything beyond 1/2 inch could put too much leverage on the substrate.
Can Quartz Countertops Be Installed Outside?
Quartz is not always recommended for outdoor use due to potential fading and damage from UV rays. There are specially formulated quartz products for outdoor installation.
Does Installation Time Differ Between Quartz and Granite?
Quartz often requires less installation time compared to natural stone. The slabs do not need extensive cutting and fitting to install seamlessly.
How Should Quartz Seams Align?
The seams between quartz slabs should be as unnoticeable as possible. Many pros recommend aligning them with the sink or cooktop to disguise the joints.
What Thickness is Recommended for Quartz Backsplash?
A 3/4 inch thickness is commonly recommended for quartz backsplashes to provide enough stability on the wall.
Can Cabinets Support the Weight of Quartz?
In some cases, old or weak cabinets may require reinforcement to properly support heavy quartz slabs. Your installer should assess this.
Is It Harder to Install Quartz with Special Edge Profiles?
Yes, edge profiles like bevels or ogees require more precision cutting which can increase installation time and cost.
Conclusion
Quartz offers a winning combination of beauty, durability, and versatility that makes it an increasingly popular choice for today’s kitchen and bath updates. While quartz stands up admirably to heavy use and traffic, proper installation is critical. Following the careful process used by experienced professionals ensures your new counters fit correctly, are securely anchored, and have invisible seams and transitions. Hiring knowledgeable quartz fabricators and paying close attention to their methods will help homeowners make the most of their investment in these high-performing engineered stone countertops. With the right prep work, expert installation, and simple maintenance, your new quartz counters will beautifully serve their role as a functional kitchen or bath centerpiece for decades to come.