Can you install my tile backsplash while we wait for the countertop?
It is our “best practice” to wait for the countertops to be installed satisfactorily first.
Is quartz less expensive than natural stone?
In general, no, not necessarily. There are many factors that may affect the price of quartz like thickness, jumbo sizes, a specific collection, preferred edge treatment, demand, preparation, and the level of the latest cutting technology used by the fabricator for measuring and cutting purposes. Of course, the complexity of the project - like a waterfall installation will skew the overall price. And all these factors can apply to a natural stone material as well. On a positive note, there are entry level pricing options for both materials.
Will there be seams in my countertops?
A seamless installation will completely depend on the size of your kitchen’s lower cabinet’s layout. Like natural stone, quartz is sold in slabs and has physical size limitations. The two common quartz slab sizes: Regular: 55” x 120” and the Jumbo size: 63” x 128”, but not all colors are available in a Jumbo size and / or in the thicker 3 cm (1 - 3/16”). When doing a countertop template (measurement), if applicable, we disclose where the recommended seam placement will be.
How long do I need to plan for my countertop installation?
A few things to keep in mind, the availability of the material, demand for installation at the time, and new cabinets. Typically, materials are located within our Texas distribution center(s) and can take 6 - 12 days if not available in our Austin warehouse. At a minimum, the lower cabinets must be installed before we can measure and provide a formal proposal. When measurements, kitchen cabinet plans are available or if only changing the countertops, we can check material availability of the preferred material and provide an initial soft quote. For general planning purposes, it is not uncommon to allow 2 - 3 weeks lead time before the countertops can be installed after new cabinets. And in most cases, the countertop installation can be completed within 1 or 2 days.
Are quartz or natural stone countertops able to handle a hot pot?
Quartz and natural stone countertop materials are heat resistant. However, extreme heat may damage the countertop, especially at seam locations. As always, when placing a hot object on the countertop proceed with caution and use a hot pad or trivets.
Is a Quartz countertop stain resistant?
Quartz is non-porous and very resistant to staining. It does a better job than natural stones by being resistant to oil, coffee, wine, juice and most other common kitchen spills. However, it should not be considered as 100 percent stain resistant and is susceptible to stains from solvents, sodium hydroxide and permanent markers.
How much of a mess should I expect with my countertop installation?
The area is considered a construction zone and it is normal to have light construction dust, but we do a basic cleaning after every job. When old countertops and backsplashes are being removed, expect slightly more dust and possible sheetrock and paint repairs that will need to be addressed by the client after the countertop installation.
The glue used to secure the countertops and seams will have a chemical odor but usually dissipates after several hours. However, take any necessary precautions that you feel are necessary for your family, including pets.
Do I have to hire a licensed plumber and / or electrician?
Yes. New fixtures, appliances, under cabinet lighting, or other related misc items are best left to licensed professionals. If it is a kitchen remodel, chances are demolition and related items have been taken care of prior to the countertop install. If not, we do not disconnect plumbing, electrical or move appliances from the work zone. This task will need to be coordinated by the homeowner before and after the countertop install.
We do expect the sink and faucet be present during the installation. Often, we will do the sink cutout and faucet hole(s) onsite. And we will install the sink only.