Installing a new quartz countertop can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. However, it does require removing the existing tile countertop first. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove tile and put in a quartz countertop.
Supplies Needed
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Pry bar
- Dust mask
- Shop vacuum
- Scraper
- Sandpaper
- Adhesive remover
- TSP cleaner
- Quartz countertop
- Adhesive for quartz
- Seam kit for quartz
Removing the Tile
Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask when removing tile to protect yourself.
- Use a hammer and chisel to break the grout lines and loosen the tiles. Tap lightly to break the grout and avoid damaging the countertop underneath.
- Insert a pry bar under lifted edges of tiles and pop them off. Pry up one tile at a time.
- Use a shop vacuum to collect tile pieces and dust as you work. Vacuum frequently to minimize dust in the air.
- Use a wall scraper to remove thinset adhesive from the countertop surface. Scrape in the direction of the wood grain to avoid gouges. Apply adhesive remover if needed to loosen stubborn adhesive.
- Sand the entire counter surface with 80-100 grit sandpaper to smooth and prep it for the new quartz.
- Clean the countertop thoroughly with TSP cleaner to remove debris, grease, and dust in preparation for the new quartz.
Preparing the New Quartz Countertop
- Carefully transport and place the quartz countertop slab on top of the cabinets.
- Ensure the quartz overhangs the front and sides of the cabinets by 1 1⁄4 inches. This allows room for nosing at the front edge.
- Use painter’s tape to mark the front edge and sides of where cuts need to be made. Mark the locations of sink and stove cutouts as well.
- Use a circular saw with a diamond blade to cut the quartz to size following the marked lines. Make sink and stove cutouts with a jigsaw.
- Sand cut edges smooth with 220 grit sandpaper. Use a corner sander for rounded corners of sink or stove cutouts.
- Dry fit the quartz on the cabinets to test the fit. Make any additional adjustments needed with the circular saw.
Installing the Quartz Countertop
- Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the underside of the quartz slab using a notched trowel.
- Carefully place the quartz on the countertop, pressing down firmly to adhere.
- Clamp edges in place while adhesive dries. Wipe away any excess squeeze-out immediately.
- Once adhesive has cured, run a bead of clear silicone caulk along the seam where the quartz meets the wall.
- Attach the nosing to the front edge using construction adhesive. Clamp until dry.
- Seal edges along sink and stove cutouts with silicone caulk as well. Allow everything to dry fully before use.
- Enjoy your beautiful new quartz countertop! Properly cared for, it will last for many years.
FAQs
How long does it take to remove tile?
Removing tile can take 2-3 hours for a small countertop. Larger or heavily tiled counters may take 5-6 hours. Have patience and take your time to avoid damaging the underlying surface.
What tools do I need to cut quartz?
You’ll need a circular saw with a diamond blade made for cutting stone. For cutouts, use a jigsaw with a granite blade. Always wear eye protection when cutting.
What adhesive works best for quartz?
Use a high-quality adhesive made specifically for solid surface materials like quartz or granite. Avoid standard construction adhesives.
Should I seal quartz countertops?
Sealing is not necessary for quartz since it’s non-porous. However, applying a penetrating sealer can help resist stains. Reapply sealer once a year.
How do I get a seamless look with quartz?
Use a color-matched seam kit to fill the joint between slabs. Apply epoxy adhesive, smooth with putty knives, and sprinkle colored sand to create an invisible seam.
Conclusion
The process of removing tile and installing a new quartz countertop takes some work, but it’s an excellent DIY project for homeowners. With the proper tools and safety precautions, you can completely transform the look of your kitchen. The sleek modern appearance and extreme durability of quartz make it a popular choice to replace outdated tile countertops. Just follow the steps outlined above and soon you’ll be enjoying an attractive, low-maintenance quartz surface that will last for decades.