If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your kitchen space without breaking the bank, quartz countertops are an ideal option.
Quartz is a durable and resilient material that can add beauty and style to any kitchen while also providing excellent functionality.
In this article, we’ll explore how to install quartz countertops yourself in just a few easy steps.
Table of Contents
What is a quartz countertop?
Quartz countertops are a type of engineered stone countertop made from a combination of natural quartz and other materials such as resin and pigments.
They are generally about 90-95% ground natural quartz and 5-10% of polymer resins and pigments.
How to install quartz countertops?
Installing quartz countertops is a fairly involved process that should ideally be done by a professional. However, here is a general overview of the steps involved in installing quartz countertops:
Pre Installation measures
It’s important to note that the steps mentioned here are a general overview and there may be slight variations depending on where your countertop is getting installed.
Also, it’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate tools and materials.
If you are installing countertops in the kitchen, then it is mandatory to your kitchen sink is out of the way.
Turn the water supply off and suspend the connection of the drain pipe. Once the connection is removed, just remove the sink making sure any other parts aren’t connected.
Note that this step may vary depending on the type of sink and faucet installed in your kitchen.
I. Measure and template
The first step is to remove your old countertop. This step might need a carpenter’s assistance based on the material of your old countertop.
Steps I and II are crucial in the entire process, since all other steps are based on the measurements taken at this step, so it is absolutely critical to ensure perfect scaling and measurements.
Measure the area where the countertops will be installed and create a template of the space. This will be used to cut the quartz to the correct size and shape.
Initially make the scaled-down drawing of the countertop with exact measurements with all the required gaps and holes wherever needed. The drawing can be rough and can be made on paper but make sure all the measurements follow the same scaling.
While taking measurements, take into consideration the backsplash areas if needed. Especially kitchen/bathroom countertops need these to prevent frequent water drips or backsplashes from damaging the walls.
II. Create a Form
After taking all the measurements, now it is time to create a basic form with all the measurements.
A form is basically creating a layout of the countertop with cheap materials like cardboard, particle wood, or a sheet of material.
This is to make sure the layout and other measurements are perfect in size. Usually, a layout is made of inexpensive particle board or a thin sheet of plywood.
This step makes it easy to identify any errors in the measurement in the early stage without having to waste any materials.
III. Cut the quartz
Use a circular saw or a bridge saw to cut the quartz to the correct size and shape according to the template.
With the help of the created layout, cut the quartz to exactly fit the measurements along with all the necessary gaps, holes, and other additional features needed.
While cutting the quartz it is important to take into consideration additional information like the height of the ceiling in the house, the height of the door, and also the quality of the material on which the countertop is to be placed.
Because, sometimes it is possible that for houses with small entrance doors or ceilings of smaller height, it won’t be possible to carry in lengthy stones.
In such cases, instead of carrying a single large piece, the countertop has to be sliced down to a few more pieces and to be sealed accordingly.
IV. Prepare the cabinets
Make sure the cabinets are level and in good condition. If necessary, reinforce the cabinets and make sure they are securely attached to the wall.
Install the under-mount sink.
If you are installing an under-mount sink, cut the hole for the sink in the quartz and install the sink according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
V. Apply adhesive
Apply a bead of adhesive to the top of the cabinets, being careful not to get any on the front of the cabinets.
If everything looks awesome, apply silicone sealing and seal the countertop. If some spots need any kind of securing or inserts with clips or clamps make sure.
VI. Set the quartz
Carefully set the quartz on top of the adhesive, making sure it is level and properly aligned with the cabinets.
Now that you have got your stones cut and ready. It is time to assemble them. Before jumping on to sealing them straight away, just make sure to align them perfectly and ensure that all the gaps align at the right spots and the open parts aren’t covered.
If you feel anything is off the place, make the marking on the quartz stone using some kind of permanent markers of bright colors for identification and make corrections to the stone accordingly.
VII. Finish
Once the adhesive is set, remove the clamps and finish the edges of the quartz with a router or a laminate trimmer.
After completing the setup give it about 1 to 2 days for the sealing to complete the setup of the stone and let it dry.
Yeah, and don’t forget to attach back your sink, facet, and other components in place.
VIII. Clean
After the countertop is set and rested, clean the quartz countertops with mild detergent and water to remove any dirt.
We highly recommend taking support from a skilled technician in the entire process, as it is a tiresome process to do and also needs the utmost perfection.
Why choose quartz countertops?
There are several reasons why someone might choose quartz countertops for their home:
a) Durability: Quartz countertops are extremely hard and durable, making them resistant to scratches, chips, and stains. This makes them a great choice for high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
b) Low Maintenance: Because quartz countertops are non-porous, they do not require sealing or regular re-polishing. They are also easy to clean with just soap and water, which makes them a great choice for busy households.
c) Variety of colors and patterns: Quartz countertops come in a wide range of colors and patterns, so it’s easy to find one that complements your existing decor.
d) Hygienic: Quartz countertops are nonporous which means that bacteria, mold, and mildew don’t penetrate the surface, making it a clean option for the kitchen and bathroom.
e) Resistant to heat: Quartz countertops can withstand high temperatures, so it’s safe to place hot pots and pans directly on them without worrying about damage.
f) Long-lasting: Quartz countertops are durable and long lasting, making them a great investment for your home
Overall, quartz countertops offer a balance of durability, low maintenance, and aesthetics that make them a great choice for many homeowners.
How to keep your quartz countertops clean & shiny?
Cleaning quartz countertops is simple and easy. Here are a few steps you can follow to keep your quartz countertops looking their best:
i) Wipe up spills immediately
Wipe up any spills, such as liquids or food, as soon as they happen to prevent staining.
ii) Use a mild detergent
Clean the countertops with mild detergent and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the surface.
iii) Dry the countertops
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the countertops to remove any remaining water and prevent water spots.
iv) Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners
Avoid using acidic or alkaline cleaners on your quartz countertops, as they can damage the surface.
Use a sealer: Apply a sealer on your quartz countertops to protect them from stains and spills.
v) Avoid harsh chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or abrasive scrubbers, they can damage the surface and the finish of your quartz countertops.
vi) Regular cleaning
Regularly cleaning your quartz countertops will help them stay looking their best. Wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild detergent at least once a week.
Overall, Quartz countertops are a durable and low-maintenance option for countertops. By following these simple cleaning steps, you can keep your quartz countertops looking new for years to come.
It’s important to note that installing quartz countertops can be a difficult and time-consuming task. If you don’t have experience with this type of installation, it may be best to hire a professional to do the job for you.
We are hopeful that this article was helpful in mind-mapping the steps that are necessary to follow while trying to install a quartz countertops.
