Installing a quartz countertop can greatly enhance the look and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom. Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals blended with polymer resins for durability. It’s a popular choice for countertops because it’s stylish, low maintenance, and heat and scratch resistant. When installing a quartz countertop, using the right adhesive is key to creating a long-lasting bond. Here’s an in-depth look at what glue to use for a quartz countertop installation.
Choosing the Right Adhesive
When gluing down a quartz countertop, it’s important to use an adhesive specifically designed for solid surfaces. Standard wood glues or construction adhesives won’t create a strong enough bond. Here are the best glue options to use with quartz:
100% Silicone Adhesives
100% silicone adhesives are one of the most popular and reliable choices for adhering quartz countertops. Silicone glues are flexible and create a permanent, waterproof bond. What glue to use on quartz countertop installers often prefer silicone because it allows the countertop to move minimally with changes in temperature and humidity without compromising the seal.
Popular brand name 100% silicone adhesives include Dow Corning 732 Multi-Purpose Sealant and GE Silicone II. Be sure to choose a silicone designated for stone or quartz.
Epoxy Adhesives
Two-part epoxy adhesives are another top choice for quartz countertop installations. Epoxies create an incredibly strong, resilient bond. However, epoxy is less flexible than silicone.
Leading brands like Akemi and Tenax make specific epoxy adhesives for stone and quartz that provide optimal bonding power. Make sure to get an epoxy designed for solid surface materials.
Polyurethane Adhesives
Polyurethane glues and sealants also work well to adhere quartz countertops. Like epoxy, polyurethane bonds tightly but doesn’t have the flexibility of silicone.
Bostik’s Best and SikaBond are reputable polyurethane adhesives that offer great adhesion for quartz.
How to Glue a Quartz Countertop
Once you’ve selected the right adhesive, proper application is key for proper bonding. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to glue a quartz countertop:
- Clean and prepare the surfaces. Wipe down the quartz and substrate with denatured alcohol to remove any dirt or oil. Lightly sand or roughen smooth surfaces to improve adhesion.
- Apply adhesive to the substrate. Run a zig-zag bead of glue along the underside of the overhangs and several beads across the rest of the surface. Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions.
- Set the countertop and press firmly. Carefully lower the quartz slab into place. Use a J-roller across the entire surface to flatten glue lines and remove air pockets.
- Clamp edges. Use C-clamps along seam lines and overhangs. Wipe away any excess squeezed-out adhesive.
- Allow drying time. Most adhesives take 24-48 hours to fully cure. Avoid disturbing the countertop during this time.
- Seal seam lines. Once fully set, apply color-matched caulk along all seam lines for waterproofing. Wipe smooth.
FAQs About Gluing Quartz Countertops
What kind of glue is best for quartz countertops?
The top adhesives for quartz are 100% silicone, epoxy, and polyurethane glues specifically formulated for solid surfaces. Avoid standard wood glue, construction adhesive, super glue, or hot glue.
How long does quartz countertop adhesive take to dry?
Drying times vary by product but are typically 24-48 hours. Avoid putting any weight on the countertop or introducing water or cleaners until the adhesive has fully cured.
Should you use silicone or epoxy for quartz?
Silicone and epoxy are both great options. Silicone is more flexible while epoxy creates a stronger bond. Choose silicone if the countertop will be subject to any movement or vibration. Go with epoxy for the most rigid installation.
Can you use regular caulk on quartz?
For filling the seams between quartz slabs, use a color-matched caulk designed specifically for solid surface countertops, not standard caulk. The caulk must be able to withstand heat and cleaning products.
Does Gorilla Glue work on quartz?
No, Gorilla Glue and other standard wood/construction adhesives do not create an adequate bond with quartz. Always use a countertop-specific adhesive like silicone, epoxy, or polyurethane.
Conclusion
Installing a gorgeous quartz countertop gives your kitchen or bath a stylish, maintenance-free work surface. Be sure to use the proper adhesive like silicone, epoxy, or polyurethane designed specifically for adhering solid surface materials. Follow the application instructions carefully and allow the recommended drying time. With the right glue and technique, you’ll enjoy a seamless, durable quartz countertop installation.