Preparation for Installation
We have prepared a preproject checklist that covers some key points that you and your supplier should review to be sure there is complete understanding of expectations so the project goes smoothly.
Preparation for Countertop Installation:
Your fabricator and installer know how to install tops to minimize hassles and maximize the countertop life expectancy and customer satisfaction. If you are interested, you can review the "Minimum Fabrication Requirements Bulletin”. Your installation is optimized when the walls, cabinets and substructure are properly prepared. It is the responsibility of your installer to determine if the project is ready for installation.
Pre Installation Topics:
Color or slab selection
Consumer is responsible for deciding on color selection. Final selection should not be made from website pictures, magazines, literature or small samples. If necessary, the consumer should work with their supplier to see full size slabs or current samples
Fabricator is responsible for inspecting slabs for defects prior to fabrication.
Installing a quartz countertop may also require adding structural support to underlying cabinets since the slabs are extremely heavy. Review any needs with designer or installer.
Agreement should be made to determine location in slab for cutouts for sink, cooktop, other appliances, faucets and seam location(s).
Edge detail must be decided before fabrication can begin
Detail for all corners (inside corners and outside radiuses) should be reviewed.
Inside corners should have a minimum 1/4 inch radius
Outside corners should have a minimum 1/8 inch radius to eliminate sharp outside corners that could be a safety hazard.
Seam Expectations
Seams will be visible; about 1/16 +/- 1/32 of an inch
Will show pattern changes
May not be perfectly smooth
The consumer and installer should agree on the seam locations
Backsplash expectations
Quartz backsplashes of 2 or 3 cm will reduce total available countertop space
Do not let backsplash rest directly on deck (includes tiles and other solid materials). Installer should use spacers to keep backsplash off countertop.
Silicone is the best material to caulk the gap between the countertop and backsplash.
Overhangs may need additional support. Review with installer what, if any additional support will be needed for your overhang (underlayment, corbels or legs).
Confirm that the installer will not do any dry cutting or grinding on site or inside the home. When natural stone or quartz slabs are "dry" machined with saws and grinders, the machining can generate crystalline silica dust..
Prior to Installation
Consumer must insure that subcontractor items completed; plumbing & electrical roughed in, flooring set, cabinetry permanently affixed, etc.?
Field measurements are to be taken once all cabinets have been installed in their permanent positions. In many cases, the fabricator will make a template of the installation area.
The sink(s) should be available as well as all appliances that require a cut out in the countertop so the proper cutout sizes are made.
Installation Day Tips
Confirm with installers that they will not be using hand tools to cut or grind the quartz.
Remove any breakables from the room and from any wall that has work being done against it.
Consumer and Installer must agree who is responsible for protecting the floors.
IntecStone quartz surface is a heavy material. Be sure the path from the delivery vehicles to the installation area is free from obstructions.
Clean out cabinets as dust and particulates may fall into any exposed areas.
Cabinets must be level (side to side and front to back). Installers must insure the area is flat and true to 1/8 inch over a 10 foot section.
Additional wood support strips may need to be installed on top of cabinets and against back wall , especially in corners. When completed, the countertop should not have any "give" when pressure is applied in a down force
Tops should have a gap of 1/8 inch abutting any walls or cabinet side walls.
Silicone should be used to adhere the countertop. It will take at least 24 hours to "set".
Post Installation Tips
Installer should clean up after their work is completed. At a minimum, the area should be broom swept and all debris removed.
Allow adhesives to set (24 hours) before using countertops. Failure to do so may impact the positioning of the material.