Should Quartz Countertops Be Installed by a Professional?

Now that quartz has become as popular as granite, many homeowners are contemplating the possibility of remodeling their kitchen and bathroom countertops. At the same time, some of these homeowners will think about tackling these renovations as do-it-yourself projects. After all, pre-cut and finished quartz slabs can be purchased at home improvement stores. Since quartz installations do not generally require construction permits, they can certainly be tackled on a DIY basis, but this is not recommended for the following reasons. Quartz Is a Very Heavy Material The first step in a quartz installation project is to determine whether the counter and cabinet structure can support the substantial weight of the slab. To this effect, the wood should be inspected for water or termite damage. In some cases, the counter may need to be shored up or modified. Unless the project involves only a small bathroom counter, installing quartz is a task that requires a strong partner who can assist with lifting. When handled carelessly, quartz slabs can damage homes or cause injuries. Quartz Installations May Require Special Tools When it comes to tools and equipment, a quartz installation can be compared to changing the oil in a passenger car or light truck: it seems like a straightforward job as long as the right tools are on-hand. Purchasing the tools needed for an oil change makes sense because they will likely be used many times in the future. However, the same cannot be said about a wet saw or an angle grinder equipped with diamond blades for cutting quartz. Unless homeowners intend to install various counters, fireplace surrounds, and floors all over their property, investing in expensive quartz cutting tools may not be justified. Measuring and Cutting Quartz Requires Skill Professional quartz installers will spend as much time as they need to take measurements and review them before ordering or picking up quartz slabs. At some point, they will conduct a dry run to double-check their measurements prior to deciding to cut the material. Prefabricated quartz slabs that include sinks may not seem to require as much cutting. However, this cannot be ascertained until the first dry run is completed. Ancillary Repairs May Need to Be Done With quartz counter installations, there may be more than just setting, cutting, caulking, and fitting the slabs. In some cases, splash tiles may have to be removed or drywall sections may need to be replaced. In other cases, water lines may have to be extended or reduced. Whereas professional installers are prepared to face these ancillary repairs, not all homeowners may be able to do so. What homeowners can certainly do on a DIY basis is care for their quartz countertops. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not require sealing. However, it does need to be cleaned with a specially formulated quartz and Corian cleaner such as Granite Gold Quartz Brite®. If you’d like to learn more about quartz and natural-stone care, reach out to Granite Gold® today at 1-800-475-STONE. We offer a wide variety of products that are safe to use on quartz as well as natural-stone surfaces such as granite, marble, and slate.