How to Cut Quartz Countertop | 9 Simple DIY Steps

Disclaimer

Articles, products, and services offered on this site are for informational purposes only. We are part of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. Amazon.com is compensated for sales resulting from links on our website.

Please review our disclaimer before acting based on anything you read or see.

Quartz countertops have quickly become popular for many homeowners due to their durability, variety of color options, and low maintenance requirements. While quartz countertops are a great addition to any kitchen, they can be expensive and require specialized installation tools. This blog post will discuss how to cut Quartz countertop and provide tips on how to do it safely and correctly:

  • Make a mark on the quartz countertop
  • Select and position the blade
  • Apply masking tape to the area around the mark
  • Start cutting with a Rotary Tool and Diamond Blade
  • Stop after making the first cut in quartz with a rotary tool
  • Change to a Corded Electric Drill with Diamond Coated bit
  • Remove the remaining pieces of quartz with a hammer and chisel
  • Smooth out edges with sandpaper
  • Mask off the area around the hole you just created 

We will also cover the necessary tools and supplies and how to measure your countertop and make the cuts. 

Following these steps, ensure your kitchen’s quartz countertop is appropriately cut and looks fantastic.

How To Cut Quartz Countertop

Make a mark on the quartz countertop

Before you begin cutting the quartz countertop, make sure to mark the area you plan to cut with a wax pencil. 

It will help you stay organized and keep your cuts precise. 

Make a mark on the quartz countertop

Make sure the mark is visible and delineate where the cut will make. 

Once you have made the mark, use a straightedge to ensure the cut is even. 

Using a protractor ensures you get the desired slope degree if cutting at an angle. 

Once the mark is in place, you can begin cutting.

Select and position the blade.

After selecting the proper blade for the quartz countertop, the next step is determining the correct cut positioning. 

Securely attach the blade at the right angle and height to ensure the most efficient cut. 

Select and position the blade

When selecting the blade, choose one that can handle the hardness of the quartz countertop. Typically, a diamond-tipped knife is the recommended option for a quartz countertop. 

When positioning the blade, the ideal distance between the quartz countertop and the blade surface should be no more than 1/8 of an inch. 

It will ensure a smooth and clean cut.

Apply masking tape to the area around the mark.

Before cutting, it is vital to use masking tape to protect the area around the mark. 

It will help ensure a clean, accurate cut and protect the surrounding surfaces from the dust the cutting process creates. 

Apply masking tape to the area around the mark 

Apply the tape firmly, ensuring it covers the area surrounding the mark on the quartz countertop.

Start cutting with a Rotary Tool and Diamond Blade

Step 4 of the process for cutting the quartz countertop is to begin the cutting with a rotary tool and diamond blade. A rotary tool with a diamond blade is the most effective for cutting quartz countertops, providing precision, accuracy, and speed. 

Start cutting with a Rotary Tool and Diamond Blade

It is essential to use a high-quality diamond blade when cutting quartz countertops so that it will not chip or crack when cutting. 

Furthermore, ensure that the diamond blade is securely attached to the rotary tool and that the cutting speed does set correctly to ensure a smooth and precise cut.

Stop after making the first cut in quartz with a rotary tool

After making the first cut with the rotary tool, stopping, taking a break, and assessing the situation are vital. 

Check the depth of the cut and ensure the tool is cutting through the quartz properly. 

Stop after making the first cut in quartz with a rotary tool

Make sure not to rush the job and take the time to ensure that each cut is precise, as this will ensure that the stakes are clean and the quartz countertop properly fit.

Change to a Corded Electric Drill with Diamond Coated bit.

Before cutting quartz countertops, you must ensure you have the right tools. 

We recommend switching to a corded electric drill with a diamond-coated bit. 

Change to a Corded Electric Drill with Diamond Coated bit

This bit is designed to cut quartz countertops and can handle the hard surface without becoming worn down. 

The diamond coating will also help to keep your cuts smooth and accurate. 

It’s essential to wear safety glasses when using an electric drill.

Remove the remaining pieces of quartz with a hammer and chisel 

Once you have scored the quartz countertop, use a hammer and chisel to remove the remaining pieces.

Use precise, measured motions with the chisel, as too hard of a hit can cause the countertop to crack or chip. 

Remove the remaining pieces of quartz with a hammer and chisel 

If you need to gain experience using a hammer and chisel, practice on scrap pieces of quartz before attempting to cut the countertop. 

Always wear safety glasses and gloves when chiseling the quartz. After removing all the pieces, you should have a successful cut in the quartz countertop.

Smooth out edges with sandpaper.

Once you have cut the quartz countertop to the desired size and shape, use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.

Use 120-grit sandpaper to start, switch to a finer grit, such as 180-grit, and finally, use an excellent spirit, such as 240-grit, to finish. 

Smooth out edges with sandpaper

Move the sandpaper in a circular motion, ensuring that you sand every area of the edge. 

It will give the countertop a polished, finished look. Finally, wipe down the quartz countertop to remove dust from the sanding process.

Mask off the area around the hole you just created 

When cutting quartz countertops, it is crucial to mask off the area around the hole you created. It will help to prevent the quartz dust from spreading throughout the workspace. 

Carefully use masking tape to cover the area around the cut, pressing it down to avoid air bubbles. 

It will also help protect other surfaces and materials in the area you do not want to be affected by the quartz dust. 

Mask off the area around the hole you just created 

It is important to properly secure the masking tape so that it does not come undone during the cutting process. 

To further protect the area, place a plastic drop cloth on the floor beneath the workspace to catch any loose quartz dust. Taking the extra time to mask off the area around the hole you created will save you time and effort in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of blade do you use to cut the Quartz countertop?

The Quartz stone should be cut up with a circular saw using a diamond blade because it is a weighty material. It gives a clean cut because the tiny crystals are attached to its edge. Another method of cutting Quartz stone is through a jigsaw as one of the power tools. 

Is Quartz stone harder to cut than Granite? 

Yes! Quartz is more rigid than Granite stone because it is powerful and heavy material on earth. 

It is extremely tough because it is a mixture of Quartz stone with more than 90% and 10% men-made epoxy binder (resin) and acrylic, so it is non-porous, unlike Granite stone. Quartz is so heavy that it needs a cabinet under the countertop to glue the joints. 

What are the problems with the Quartz countertop?

Some of the problems people have observed with Quartz countertops are;

  • Clean the spill on Quartz countertops immediately to save it from irremovable stains
  • To expose Quartz stone directly to heat or temperature over 300 degrees Fahrenheit. So it is used for indoor things only. 
  • Seams cause a problem sometimes with Quartz stone. 
  • It is not friendly with scratches also.
  • It is expensive too.
  • Using hot water to clean the surface is not a good idea.

Expert Opinion

Cutting quartz countertops can be a tricky and dangerous job. However, it can do with the right tools, safety measures, and patience. 

Remember to wear protective gear when cutting quartz countertops, and take your time when making your cuts. 

With the right know-how, you can quickly and safely cut your quartz countertop and have it look beautiful in no time.

You can cut quartz countertops without leaving unsightly marks with these steps and techniques.

Comments are closed.