Replacing kitchen cabinets can give your space a fresh new look, but it often comes with the question of whether you need to replace the countertops as well. With quartz countertops, the good news is that you can usually replace your cabinets without having to replace the countertop material. Here’s what you need to know about replacing cabinets without replacing quartz countertops.
Understanding Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a durable, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Unlike natural stone, quartz countertops are engineered in a factory so there is very little variation between slabs.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resistant to stains, scratches, and heat
- Non-porous so they don’t require sealing
- Wide variety of colors and patterns available
Can You Replace Cabinets Without Replacing Quartz Countertops?
The short answer is yes, you can generally replace your kitchen cabinets without having to replace quartz countertops. Here are the main reasons why:
Quartz slabs are consistent in thickness – Natural stone countertops are often uneven, requiring modifications when cabinets are replaced. But quartz slabs are engineered to a consistent thickness, typically 3/4″ or 1-1/4″. This makes it easy to reuse them with new cabinets.
Quartz is durable and scratch resistant – Unlike marble or other natural stones, quartz won’t easily scratch, stain or chip when removing old cabinets and installing new ones. Minor surface scratches can also be buffed out of quartz.
Seams can be maintained – The seams between quartz slabs are held together by adhesive. As long as these seams are properly handled, they can remain intact when replacing cabinets.
Quartz color and patterns won’t change – Since quartz is engineered, you don’t have to worry about new slabs varying in color or pattern from your existing slabs. Any additions or repairs can match seamlessly.
Quartz doesn’t require sealing – Because it is non-porous, quartz does not need to be sealed like natural stone. So it won’t be damaged if sealants are stripped during the cabinet replacement process.
As long as your quartz countertops are still in good condition structurally and aesthetically, keeping them through a cabinet replacement can save thousands in project costs.
How to Protect Quartz Countertops During Cabinet Replacement
While quartz is incredibly durable, you still need to take some precautions to protect it when taking out old cabinets and installing new ones:
- Use plywood or another protective material when working on top of the countertops.
- Carefully remove sink and cooktop appliances to avoid cracking seams.
- Prevent impacts that could chip edges or corners of the slabs.
- Avoid dragging tools or materials across the surface that could scratch.
- Use painter’s tape along countertop edges to prevent accidental damage.
- Handle disassembly and installation carefully around seams to keep them intact.
Your contractor should have experience with keeping existing quartz intact throughout a cabinet replacement project.
Can Any Sections Be Replaced if Damaged?
If your quartz countertop does get damaged during the cabinet replacement process, it is possible to replace just the affected section. Here are your options:
- Seam repair – If damage occurs right along a seam, it can often be repaired without replacing the whole slab. This involves re-adhering and re-sealing the seam.
- Spot repair – For chips, scratches, or smaller areas of damage, quartz can be patched and resurfaced by a pro. This avoids replacing an entire slab.
- Partial slab replacement – For more extensive damage on part of a countertop, just that section can be removed and replaced with new quartz. Matching the existing pattern and color is key.
- Full slab replacement – As a last resort, if damage is beyond repair a full slab may need replacement. Thankfully this is rare with proper care during cabinet work.
FAQs About Replacing Cabinets with Quartz Countertops
Can you put new cabinets under existing quartz countertops?
Yes, new kitchen cabinets can be installed under existing quartz countertops in most cases. Quartz is engineered to a standard thickness that accommodates new cabinets. Just be very careful not to damage the countertops during the cabinet replacement process.
Do you have to cut quartz countertops when replacing cabinets?
Usually not, since quartz slabs are pre-cut to standard widths and lengths. The countertops should fit seamlessly on top of the new cabinets as long as the layout does not change. Minor trimming can be done if needed.
Is it cheaper to just replace cabinets and not the quartz countertops?
Yes, keeping your existing quartz countertops instead of replacing them can save thousands of dollars in project costs. New kitchen cabinets cost far less than new countertops, so it is a budget friendly option.
Can quartz countertops be reused if they are removed?
In most cases, quartz countertops can be safely removed and reused if needed. This requires carefully detaching them from the underneath cabinets and disassembling any seams. Reinstallation requires re-adhering all seams.
Should you replace or reseal quartz countertops during kitchen remodel?
Resealing is not necessary for quartz since it is non-porous unlike natural stone. As long as your quartz is in good condition structurally, there is no need to replace it either during a kitchen remodel.
Consult an Expert Before Proceeding
While quartz countertops can generally be kept through a kitchen cabinet replacement, it’s always smart to consult a professional first. An experienced contractor can examine your existing quartz and advise you on the feasibility of reusing it. They can also guide you on the process to minimize any damage or issues. With proper care, your beautiful quartz countertops can shine like new alongside your fresh modern cabinets.