Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz offers a durable and low-maintenance alternative to natural stone countertops. But can you recut quartz if it becomes damaged or if you want to update the look? Here is what you need to know about recutting quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from about 90% ground quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a solid, non-porous slab. The pigments add color and pattern.
Compared to natural stone, quartz is harder, more stain and scratch resistant, and requires less maintenance. It does not need annual sealing like granite or marble. Quartz also resists heat better than natural stone and won’t etch from acidic foods. With a wide range of colors and patterns, quartz offers the look of stone with added durability.
Can You Recut Quartz Countertops?
Yes, it is possible to recut quartz countertops. However, recutting quartz is not as straightforward as cutting natural stone. Here are some key considerations:
Requires Special Tools
Quartz is an extremely hard material, harder than natural granite. Cutting quartz requires special diamond-tipped blades designed for this purpose. Standard stone cutting tools will quickly wear out.
Precision is Key
When recutting quartz, precision is vital. Even slight mistakes become very noticeable on the smooth, non-porous surface. The cutting must be perfectly straight and even. This requires expertise and the right tools.
May Void Warranty
Recutting quartz often voids the manufacturer’s warranty. Any issues that arise from improper cutting will not be covered under warranty. This includes cracking, chipping, or discoloration.
Seams May Be Visible
Unlike natural stone, quartz slabs are made in molds. Recutting across the grain of the slab exposes the edges and may create visible seams. The recut section may not match the surrounding areas perfectly.
Requires Professional Fabrication
Due to the expertise and tools required, quartz countertop recutting is not a DIY project. Only professional fabricators have the skills and equipment to recut quartz properly. Most homeowners must hire a professional.
When to Consider Recutting Quartz
Here are some instances when you may want to recut quartz countertops:
Damaged Section
If a section of the quartz becomes damaged – cracked, chipped, stained – recutting can remove the damaged area. The recut area will be seamless with no evidence of damage.
Change the Shape
You may want to change the shape or layout of the quartz counters. Recutting can resize or reconfigure the slabs to better fit your space.
Updated Look
Over time, decorative styles change. Recutting makes it possible to update the look of your quartz by adding rounded corners, bevels, an apron front, or other details.
Coordinating Backsplash
To match a new backsplash, you may want to recut the countertop edge profile. A tight-fit between countertop and backsplash requires matching cut outs.
The Recutting Process
Recutting quartz countertops involves the following general steps:
- Template and measure the areas to be cut very precisely.
- Fabricator cuts the quartz offsite using specialized tools.
- Old adhesive is removed completely from the subsurface and edges.
- The recut piece is returned to the counter and seamlessly secured in place.
- The joints are filled, smoothed, and polished to a uniform finish.
Cost to Recut Quartz
The cost of recutting quartz varies depending on the size of the project, complexity, and your location. On average, expect to pay $50-100 per linear foot for straight seam cuts. Custom cuts, removing sections, and installing new edges will cost more. Total costs typically range from $500 to several thousand for large projects.
Maintaining the Finish
With a perfectly cut seam, the recut section should match the surrounding quartz. But slight differences in finish can happen over time as the material ages. Here are some care tips:
- Clean with a mild non-abrasive cleaner and soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Reseal with a penetrating sealer once a year to keep the finish uniform.
- Don’t place extremely hot pots or pans directly on the surface. Always use a trivet.
- Use a cutting board to protect from knives and avoid hard impact.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
With proper care, your recut quartz countertops will retain their beauty and function for many years. But take care not to damage the surface or impact the seams. Damaged areas may need to be recut again.
FAQs About Recutting Quartz
Is it cheaper to recut or replace quartz?
In most cases, recutting just a section is cheaper than full replacement. However, costs add up for multiple seams or recutting a large surface area.
Does recutting quartz change the color?
Slight color variation is possible near the cut lines due to differences in grain pattern. Color change is more likely with dramatic recutting like changing from a dark to light quartz.
Can any fabricator recut quartz?
No, quartz requires specialized tools and expertise. Make sure your fabricator has experience with precision quartz cutting to avoid mistakes.
Will recutting weaken my quartz countertop?
With proper professional cutting, recutting should not compromise the integrity or durability of the countertop. But excessive cutting can make the slab more prone to cracking over time.
Is there a seamless way to cut out a section of quartz?
Seams are unavoidable when cutting out a section of the countertop. But an expert fabricator can minimize the appearance of seams and match the finish.
Conclusion
While possible, recutting quartz countertops requires precision, expertise, and the right tools to achieve clean, invisible seams. For the best results, hire an experienced professional fabricator. Recutting can refresh the look of your quartz counters but take care to avoid over-cutting which can compromise durability. With proper care and maintenance, recut quartz countertops will retain their beauty and function.