Installing quartz countertops can transform the look and feel of your kitchen. With its durability, low maintenance, and customization options, quartz makes an excellent choice for kitchen countertops. However, many homeowners wonder – how long does it take to install quartz countertops? Let’s take a closer look.
Overview of the Quartz Countertop Installation Process
The time it takes to install quartz countertops depends on several factors:
- Size of the countertops
- Complexity of the job
- Access to the kitchen
- Preparation work required
- Skill level of the installation team
That said, most simple, straightforward quartz countertop installations take 1-3 days total. Here’s a general overview of what’s involved:
Day 1: Old countertop removal, cleanup, and preparation work.
Day 2: Custom fabrication and installation of the new quartz slabs.
Day 3 (if needed): Finishing touches like caulking edges and cleaning up.
Of course, every kitchen is different. Larger kitchens with multiple countertop sections will require more time. The use of specialty edges and inlays will also add labor hours.
Factors That Impact Installation Time
Several key factors determine exactly how long your quartz countertop installation will take:
Size of the Kitchen
The total square footage and linear footage of your countertops is a major factor. Larger kitchens will simply take more time for demolition, fabrication, installation, and finishing.
As a general guideline for installation time:
- Small kitchen (less than 40 sq ft): 1-2 days
- Medium kitchen (40-80 sq ft): 2-3 days
- Large kitchen (over 80 sq ft): 3-5 days
Of course, the complexity and access to your kitchen can also impact the time required.
Layout Complexity
Simple countertop layouts with just an L-shaped wrap or straight runs are fastest to install. Highly complex designs with multiple seams, edges, cutouts, and unusual shapes will require more fabrication and installation work.
Other factors like non-square corners, bumpouts, or countertops spanning multiple rooms will also drive up installation time.
Edge Treatments
Standard 1/4″ bevel edges can be fabricated quickly. More complex edges like ogee, dupont, triple pencil, and furniture-style edges require special cutting and shaping, adding labor time.
Inlays for a decorative strip or other custom accents also take more effort to precisely cut and seam together.
Access to the Kitchen
Kitchens on upper floors without direct exterior access will require extra work to haul materials in and debris out. Tight corners or doorways can also limit moving large slabs into the kitchen.
In contrast, kitchens with wide doorways or direct garage access speed up the process.
Preparation Work Needed
If plumbing, electrical, or structural work must be completed before installing the new countertops, this prep work can add a day or more to the schedule. Likewise, if walls or cabinets must be repaired or replaced first, this extends the timeline before countertop templating can even begin.
Skill Level of Installers
Experienced installation crews can work quickly and efficiently to fabricate and install quartz countertops in the shortest time possible. Less seasoned crews may work at a slower pace or need to make adjustments during the process, extending the job.
Be sure to vet countertop fabricators carefully and evaluate their experience level with quartz. Read reviews and ask for examples of past quartz installations if possible.
Scheduling Your Quartz Countertop Installation
When scheduling your quartz countertop installation, keep the following timeline guidelines in mind:
- Template: Schedule templating with a visit from the installer to take exact measurements of your countertops. Allow 30-60 minutes for templating.
- Fabrication: From the template, the fabricator will custom cut and polish your quartz slabs. Fabrication typically takes 5-10 business days.
- Installation: Schedule 1-3 days for removal of old countertops, installation of the new slabs, and finishing. Allow at least 8 hours per day.
- Curing: Quartz needs 24 hours to cure properly once installed. Avoid direct water contact or moving heavy objects for 1-2 days.
When factoring in templating, fabrication, installation, and curing time, you should plan on 2-4 weeks total to complete your quartz countertop installation. Communicate your timeline needs clearly to your countertop professional to ensure adequate time is scheduled.
Tips for a Smooth Installation Process
To help your quartz countertop installation go as quickly and efficiently as possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Declutter your kitchen as much as possible before installation day. This allows easier access and movement.
- Let the installers know about any access issues, tight corners, or special needs upfront.
- Remove existing backsplashes, sinks, faucets, and appliances as needed (installers may do this as well).
- Plan for dust, noise, and some disruption during the 1-3 day installation period.
With proper planning and an experienced installation team, you can expect your quartz countertop project to be completed within 1-3 working days. The gorgeous, durable results will be well worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions about Quartz Countertop Installation Time
How long does it take to install a quartz kitchen countertop?
For most standard size kitchens, quartz countertop installation takes 1-3 days. Smaller kitchens may only require 1 day, while larger or more complex jobs could take 3-5 days.
What factors determine the installation time?
The main factors are the total size of the countertops, number of seams/edges, layout complexity, access to the kitchen, preparation work needed, and skill level of the installers.
Do I need to be home during the entire installation?
You don’t need to be home the entire time, but it’s best to be present for some key stages – during templating, to answer any questions during install, and for the final walkthrough.
Can I use my kitchen during the installation?
It’s best to avoid using the kitchen during the 1-3 day installation period as the workers will need full access. Make arrangements to cook meals elsewhere if possible.
How long does it take to install just a small section of quartz?
For a small countertop section of about 10 linear feet with minimal seaming, installation may only take 4-6 hours. A full day should allow adequate time for clean up too.
What should I do to prep for installation day?
Clear off countertops completely and declutter access areas. Remove existing backsplashes, sinks/faucets if needed. Discuss access to the kitchen and any special needs with the installer.
Can I provide my own quartz slabs to save money?
It’s not recommended – the fabricator will be unable to warranty their workmanship if issues arise with slabs not purchased through them. Opt for a competitively priced fabricator using high-quality quartz instead.
Conclusion
Installing new quartz countertops in your kitchen completely transforms the space with durable, low-maintenance beauty. By understanding the key factors that determine total installation time, planning accordingly, and prepping your kitchen properly, you can expect a smooth, efficient installation process. In most kitchens, you can enjoy stunning new quartz countertops in just 1-3 days.