Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom countertops due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, when installing quartz countertops, an important consideration is whether the countertop can support anchoring posts or pillars. Here is a detailed overview of using posts and pillars with quartz countertops.
What is a Post or Pillar on a Countertop?
A post or pillar on a countertop refers to a vertical support structure installed at the corner of the countertop or along the countertop edge. Posts are typically made of wood, metal, or stone material.
Common reasons for using a post or pillar include:
- Providing added support for a long span or overhang of a countertop.
- Acting as an anchor for cabinets and improving stability.
- Providing decorative accents and design elements.
- Increasing structural reinforcement for heavy accessories like a cooktop.
Can Quartz Countertops Support Posts?
The good news is that quartz countertops can generally support posts and pillars without any issue. Here are some key factors to consider:
Thickness of the Quartz Slab
Quartz countertops come in varying thicknesses, most commonly 1.2 cm, 2 cm, and 3 cm. Thicker quartz slabs will be able to handle more weight and force from anchored posts. A minimum 2 cm thickness is recommended for countertops that will have posts.
Installation and Reinforcement
Proper installation is crucial for reinforcement. The quartz countertop should be securely adhered to the cabinet base using adhesive. Brackets, support frames, or corbels can be used to further reinforce load-bearing pillar areas.
Weight Load Factors
Quartz has excellent compressive strength and can tolerate concentrated weight loads of up to 100 pounds per square inch (PSI). Typical posts or pillars on countertops impose far lower weight loads, well within the load bearing capacity of a quartz countertop.
Post/Pillar Material and Size
Lighter materials like aluminum or thin wood may be preferred over heavy natural stone pillars. Likewise, smaller sized pillars 3-4 inches in diameter disperse force better than large 12 inch diameter pillars.
Best Practices for Installation
When installing countertop posts on quartz, following best practices will ensure stability:
- Have posts installed by an experienced professional fabricator.
- Ensure a minimum 2 cm thick quartz slab is used.
- Reinforce the post location from underneath with brackets or supports.
- Use adhesive/epoxy made for securing quartz at the post-countertop joint.
- Avoid installing posts at seam joints between two quartz slabs.
- Make sure spacing between multiple posts is adequate.
- Use lighter weight post materials like aluminum or composite.
- Adhere to quartz manufacturer’s recommendations for post installation.
Design Ideas for Quartz Countertop Posts
With quartz able to provide ample support, posts and pillars open up creative design possibilities:
- Island Support – Two matching pillars at corners of a large kitchen island.
- Overhang Support – Single post anchoring an extended bar-style countertop overhang.
- Cabinet Anchor – Posts at the countertop edge to stabilize floor-to-ceiling cabinets.
- Decorative Accent – Thin unique designed metal or crystal pillars as accents.
- Contrasting Materials – Marble, wood, or metal pillars paired with quartz.
- Waterfall Edge – Pillar placed behind a cascading waterfall quartz edge.
Conclusion
Quartz possesses the durability and strength needed to support anchored posts and pillars in most standard countertop installations. With proper fabrication and installation, quartz can handle the weight and force from posts without cracking or failing. When quartz is reinforced and paired with suitably sized and weighted posts using the right techniques, it opens up exciting design possibilities not feasible with other weaker countertop materials. With its resilience and capacity to support posts, quartz can be confidently installed in kitchens and bathrooms requiring this type of structural countertop support.
FAQs about Quartz Countertops and Supporting Posts
Can you anchor cabinets to a quartz countertop?
Yes, cabinetry can be securely anchored to a quartz countertop by using screws fitted through brackets underneath the countertop. Proper reinforcement and drilling pilot holes will prevent cracking.
What thickness of quartz is needed to support a post?
A minimum thickness of 2 cm is recommended, although 3 cm quartz will provide even greater load bearing capacity.
Should posts for quartz countertops be made of wood or metal?
Lightweight metal like aluminum is ideal, although properly sealed and prepared wood can also be suitable for quartz countertop posts. Heavier materials may put more stress on the structure.
Can you put large 12-inch pillars on a quartz kitchen island?
Larger pillars with a 12 inch diameter are not ideal for quartz island countertops. Smaller sized pillars of 3-4 inch diameter are better for dispersing force.
Should quartz seams be avoided near countertop posts?
Yes, seams between two quartz slabs are vulnerable points, so posts should be installed away from any quartz countertop seams.