Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects thanks to their durability, low maintenance, and wide range of colors and patterns. However, like all countertop materials, quartz is not immune to staining and discoloration over time. If your quartz countertop has lost its luster or you’re simply looking to change up the look of your space, you may be wondering if it’s possible to change the color of your existing quartz countertop.
What is Quartz?
Before diving into techniques for changing the color of quartz countertops, it helps to understand exactly what quartz is. Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material, while resins account for 6-10%. Pigments are added to achieve the desired colors and patterns.
Unlike natural stone countertops such as granite and marble, which are mined directly from quarries, quartz slabs are manufactured. The manufacturing process allows much more control and consistency in the finished product’s appearance. It also results in a non-porous, highly durable surface resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Quartz offers many benefits that make it a top choice for today’s kitchens and baths:
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant surface
- Low maintenance
- Resists stains, burns, and cracks
- Non-porous so doesn’t require sealing
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Consistent coloring throughout the slab
- Mold and bacteria resistant
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Higher cost than laminate
- Can be damaged by strong chemicals
- Requires professional installation
- Seams more noticeable than natural stone
- Limited ability to repair damage
- Coloring and finish uniformity varies by brand
Can Quartz Be Painted?
With proper preparation and products, it is possible to apply new coloring to existing quartz countertops. Painting is one of the most affordable and straightforward approaches to change the look of your quartz. However, there are some important limitations to keep in mind.
The non-porous nature of quartz that makes it so resistant to staining also makes it a challenge for paints and coatings to bond to the surface. Without proper adhesion, paint will quickly peel and flake off quartz. Most standard interior paints simply can’t adhere well enough for lasting results.
Additionally, quartz has very fine scratches and etching in its surface that become emphasized after painting. So while a paint color change may provide an immediate transformation, the underlying surface quality remains the same. These limitations mean painted quartz countertops won’t have the durability and lasting quality of a new quartz slab.
Process for Painting Quartz:
- Thoroughly clean and prepare the surface
- Lightly scuff with an abrasive pad to improve adhesion
- Apply bonding primer specifically designed for quartz
- Apply 2-3 thin coats of acrylic paint
- Finish with a protective clear sealer
Pros:
- Very inexpensive color change
- Wide range of paint colors available
- Good short-term solution for temporary change
Cons:
- Paint likely to chip, fade, and peel quickly
- Doesn’t resolve underlying condition of quartz surface
- Drastically changes resale value of home
Using Quartz Colorants
Rather than attempting to paint on an entirely new color, another option is applying quartz-specific colorants to your existing countertop. These are translucent tints designed to penetrate and color the top layer of the quartz. Colorants soak into micro-pores on the quartz surface to achieve a permanent, natural-looking color change.
Applying quartz colorant requires extensive preparation to open the surface and allow the colors to absorb. The countertop is lightly sanded and then treated with an etching primer and absorption promoter. After the colorants are applied, the finish is sealed with a protecting top coat.
Quartz colorants offer a much more durable and long-lasting color change compared to paints. And because they allow the original pattern and veins of your slab to show through, the end result looks like a brand new quartz countertop. The range of achievable colors is also much more extensive, as multiple translucent layers can be built up.
Quartz Colorant Process:
- Lightly sand and clean the countertop
- Apply etching primer and absorption promoter
- Apply multiple layers of quartz colorant for desired shade
- Seal with a protective clear top coat
Pros:
- Permanent, natural-looking color change
- Much more durable than paint
- Wide range of colors can be achieved
- Maintains original quartz pattern and veins
Cons:
- Multi-step process requiring specialty products
- Requires experience working with quartz colorants
- Not DIY-friendly, professional installation recommended
Replacing Just the Quartz Surface
If you want to change the color or pattern of your quartz countertops but are satisfied with the cabinetry and layout of your kitchen or bath, replacing just the quartz surface slabs is an option. This allows you to get the visual transformation you want without a full remodel.
With this approach, the existing quartz countertop is carefully removed, exposing the cabinetry and supports. After inspecting and repairing any damage, new slabs of the desired quartz color and style are fabricated and installed. The end result looks like brand new custom countertops.
Quartz replacement avoids the shortcomings of painting and colorants while being less costly and invasive than a full replacement. However, it still requires hiring professional installers experienced with safely removing and replacing quartz slabs. Extra cabinetry repairs may also be needed.
Quartz Resurfacing Process:
- Remove existing quartz slabs
- Inspect and repair cabinetry as needed
- Measure and fabricate new quartz countertop slabs
- Professionally install new quartz countertop
Pros:
- Get a completely new quartz countertop look
- More affordable than full replacement
- Wide selection of new colors and patterns
- Avoids flaws of existing quartz finish
Cons:
- Existing countertop is discarded, not recycled
- Cabinetry repairs often needed
- Professional installers must cut and install new slabs
Factors When Considering a Quartz Color Change
If you’re thinking about changing the color of your quartz countertops, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Budget – A full quartz replacement has the highest upfront cost. Quartz colorants and painting are more affordable processes.
- Color options – The widest range of colors can be achieved with a new quartz slab or colorants. Paint is limited to lighter hues.
- Durability – New quartz and colorants offer the most durable results. Paint typically wears quickly on quartz.
- Surface quality – Paint and colorants don’t improve existing flaws in the quartz finish. New slabs provide an entirely fresh surface.
- DIY vs. professional – Painting is the only real DIY option, though professional results are still recommended. Other processes require experienced installers.
- Permanent vs. temporary – New slabs and colorants offer permanent color changes. Paint provides only temporary transformation.
- Resale value – Changes that use new quartz slabs or colorants designed for quartz maintain value better compared to painting.
Professional Quartz Color Change Services
For the best results in changing the color of your quartz countertops, it’s advisable to hire an experienced professional quartz fabrication and installation company. Reputable services will have expertise in all the available color change options and can help you determine the best choice for your goals and budget.
Be sure to see examples of previous quartz color change projects completed by any company you are considering. And ask about what specific products and processes they use. Advanced services will use industry-leading techniques like those from Daich Coatings and Cambria to deliver stunning, permanent transformations.
Professional quartz color change services typically charge on a per-square-foot basis, with rates varying based on your region and the complexity of your project. On average, expect to invest $50-$100 per square foot for high-quality results from the surface change options described above.
6 Options for Changing Your Quartz Countertop Color
If you’re considering a quartz countertop color makeover, here are 6 options to consider:
1. Painting
The most budget-friendly option is painting your existing quartz. Use a bonding primer suited for quartz along with acrylic paint. While results won’t be as durable as other methods, it can provide a temporary color change.
2. Colorants
For a permanent makeover, have quartz colorants professionally applied topenetrate and recolor the surface. More durable than paint, colorants maintain the look of natural quartz.
3. New Quartz Surface
You can replace just the surface layer for a completely new quartz countertop at less cost than full replacement. Old slabs are removed and new ones installed.
4. Add a Quartz Skin
Quartz “skins” adhere right on top of existing surfaces to transform the color and pattern. At under 1mm thick, skins provide an affordable overlay.
5. Full Quartz Replacement
For a total quartz countertop transformation, a full removal and installation of new countertop slabs is the most comprehensive option.
6. Switch to Natural Stone
If making a more dramatic change, you could switch your existing quartz countertop out for a new natural stone one like granite or marble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many homeowners have additional questions about modifying the color of their quartz countertops. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Can I change the color of my quartz countertop myself?
It is possible to paint your quartz countertop yourself as a temporary DIY solution. However, for more permanent color change methods or professional results, it’s advisable to hire an experienced quartz pro.
How long does a quartz color change process take?
The time needed depends on the size of your space and technique used. Allow at least several days for painting or adding colorants. A full resurfacing or replacement commonly takes 1-2 weeks.
Will a color change hurt the value of my home?
New quartz slabs or professional colorants designed for quartz will maintain or increase value. Painting, however, is likely to detract value. Consult local pros to understand impacts in your market.
Can any color be achieved on my quartz countertops?
The range of possible colors depends on the method. Paint offers lighter tones only. But advanced colorants or new engineered quartz slabs are available in nearly any hue.
Will a quartz color change also update the finish?
Paint or colorants work on the existing surface, so won’t improve any etching or scratches present. New quartz slabs provide an entirely fresh, flawless finish.
Is it better to change the color or replace the whole countertop?
It depends on your goals. For a simple color/pattern update, resurfacing or colorants work well. But for a total redesign or to resolve significant surface flaws, full replacement may be the better investment.
Achieve the Quartz Countertops of Your Dreams
Upgrading your home with new quartz countertops can be a significant investment. Fortunately, there are ways to transform the look of your existing quartz surfaces through color changes if replacement isn’t in your plans. With professional processes available from painting to colorants to resurfacing, it is possible to achieve the quartz countertop colors of your dreams.
Consider your budget, goals for durability and appearance, and time constraints. And enlist the help of knowledgeable quartz professionals. With the right approach, you can give your quartz countertops an affordable makeover with stunning results. So don’t settle for dingy and dated countertops – explore the many color change options available to reveal your dream quartz surface.