Selecting the Right Cabinetry
The cabinetry forms the foundation for your quartz countertop installation. Plywood or solid wood cabinets with a sturdy build are ideal. Particle board cabinets tend to be weaker and can sag over time, causing cracks and gaps in the countertop above. The cabinets must be level, with no uneven surfaces that could transfer through to the finished countertop.
Reinforced cabinets specifically designed for stone surfaces are recommended. These often have 3/4″ plywood decking to prevent sagging. Upgrading to heavy duty drawer glides in the cabinets is also a good idea to support the weight of quartz.
Allowing Room for Overhangs
Quartz countertops should have a standard 1 1/2″ front overhang beyond the cabinet face frame. This overhang prevents splashes and gives the counter an attractive look. The cabinets must be deep enough to accommodate this overhang.
For support, a metal or wood overhang bracket is often adhered to the underside of the countertop. This reinforces the extended edge. Overhangs wider than 1 1/2″ require additional corbels or other support mechanisms.
Selecting the Right Thickness
Quartz thickness should match the span of your cabinets. The standard thickness is 3/4″ which can span up to 24″ between cabinet supports. For spans greater than 24″, a 1 1/4″ thick quartz countertop is recommended. This prevents sagging, cracking, and other damage over time.
Thicker quartz tops add weight, so the underlying cabinets must be sturdy enough to bear the load without pulling away from the wall. Consult your installer for the ideal quartz thickness based on your cabinetry.
Allowing Room for Seams
Quartz countertops are fabricated from large slabs, but seams are usually still required during installation. Planning ahead for these seams can enhance support.
Seams should not be placed directly over dishwasher cutouts or other openings. Instead, locate them above cabinet divider panels. The continuous support minimizes any weak points.
If possible, avoid seams over joints between two cabinet bases. This concentrates a lot of weight and stress in one area. Stagger the seams for better load distribution.
Providing Added Support Elements
For spans over cabinets with gaps, like kitchen islands, additional support systems for quartz may be required:
- Corbels – Brackets secured to cabinet ends to support overhangs
- Pedestals – Vertical supports secured to floor under overhangs
- Columns – Free-standing supports under open cabinet areas
Consult your kitchen designer or installer on the best supplemental supports for your unique layout. Proper reinforcement prevents cracking and collapse.
Allowing Time for Proper Curing
Freshly installed quartz countertops require ample time for adhesives and other components to fully cure. Avoid placing excess weight or stress on new counters for at least 24 hours. Steer clear of heavy pots or appliances that could cause flexing.
Give the countertops several days to gain their full strength before resuming normal use. Rushing this process risks damage to the installation. Be patient for the best long-term durability.
Performing Careful Installation
Proper installation is key to providing quartz countertops with adequate support. Hire an experienced professional installer with specific training in quartz. They understand best practices related to:
- Surface prep and leveling
- Securing corners and seams
- Setting appropriate overhangs
- Allowing for expansion and contraction
Do-it-yourself quartz installations often result in cracked seams, misaligned edges, and other defects from inadequate support. Invest in professional installation for optimal results.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Over time, cabinets and supports can shift. Check for any loosening of corbels, columns, or wall attachments. Tighten as needed to keep countertops fully supported.
Also inspect for sagging, especially on older cabinets. Reinforce areas as required to maintain a level surface and prevent quartz cracks. Don’t overlook regular maintenance.
What is Needed to Support Quartz Countertops?
In summary, proper quartz countertop support requires:
- Sturdy underlying cabinetry
- Adequate overhang space
- Appropriate thickness for span
- Reinforcement of seams/weak points
- Added supports as needed
- Sufficient curing time
- Professional installation
- Regular maintenance checks
With the right precautions and materials, your quartz installation can remain beautifully supported for decades to come. Don’t cut corners on the foundations for these durable but heavy countertops.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much overhang can quartz support?
The standard front overhang for quartz countertops is 1 1/2″. With metal or wood overhang brackets, quartz can support up to a 3″ overhang. Wider overhangs require corbels or other support mechanisms.
Does quartz need more support than granite?
Quartz and granite have similar weight and support needs. The main difference is that quartz has more flexural strength. So for a given thickness, quartz can handle slightly longer spans than granite before requiring additional reinforcement.
Should I get 3cm or 2cm quartz?
3cm (1 1/4″) quartz is best for spans over 24″ between cabinet supports. 2cm (3/4″) quartz is fine for 24″ spans or less. Go thicker if you have a wide kitchen island or other long spans to prevent sagging.
How far apart should seams be in a quartz countertop?
Quartz countertop seams should be at least 6″ apart, with 10-12” ideal. Seams too close together can crack under pressure. Allow enough spacing between seams for stability.
Can quartz crack from lack of support?
Yes, quartz can absolutely crack without proper underlying support. Ensure cabinets are sturdy and level. Add reinforcement as needed under overhangs or wide spans. Avoid stressing new installs before the adhesives cure.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers stylish good looks paired with rock-solid durability. However, proper support is still essential to prevent cracks, gaps, and other damage over time. Carefully selecting materials, allowing for overhangs and seams, adding reinforcements, and hiring a professional will set up your quartz countertops for long-lasting success. With the right foundations in place, you can enjoy these low-maintenance countertops for decades to come.