You’ve heard of countertop slabs multiple times, but did you know that there is something called countertop overlays? They are basically a no-fuss, cheaper, but less durable version of quartz countertops and they’re getting really popular. Here is everything you need to know about quartz overlays and whether they’re worth it or not.

What Are Quartz Overlays?

Quartz overlay is made out of quartz, but the main difference between this and a slab is the fact that overlays are very thinly cut materials that kind of resemble wallpaper. So, that is literally what overlays are. They’re wallpaper for countertops. You can stick them on the existing surface of the countertops without taking them apart, and you have new countertops ready to go.

Pros And Cons Of Quartz Overlays

Well, now that you know what quartz countertop overlay are, you might be thinking about getting them installed. But, pump the brakes, because here are the pros and cons of the material.

Installation Is Fast

When it comes to installation, quartz overlays are pretty easy and fast to put on the countertop surface and forget about everything. This is something that you can even do by yourself.

All you need to do is prepare the countertop first by cleaning it and applying adhesive and then you want to slowly put the overlay on top and use a thin ruler or a tab to make sure that it is securely applied all over the countertops with no air bubbles.

Seams Can Be A Problem

Overlays are amazing and all that, but they don’t come in a giant single piece like wallpapers or as countertop slabs do. You will need to apply the quartz overlays like tiles and this is what can lead to seams.

Seams are bad because if the overlays are not properly applied, then it can lead to obvious appearance of seams and that can ruin the whole look, which is not what you want. So this is something that puts a lot of people off.

They are Inexpensive

One of the biggest advantages of quartz overlay worktops is the fact that they are almost a fraction of the price of regular quartz slabs. Quartz is generally quite an expensive material and if you know anything about replacing countertops, then you would know that it takes a lot of time, effort, and money.

So, if you want to go down the reasonable route, then you can get your hands on quartz overlay, because they literally look like the real deal and they’re not as expensive either, so you’re killing two birds with one stone, which is honestly amazing.

Quality Is Variable

A very off-putting thing about quartz overlays is that the quality differs where you get the material from retailers. Since it is a very fine and a thinner version of quartz itself, the quality can be variable at different retailers.

You want to check the samples as you go, because no matter if it is a slab or an overlay, you want to get your hands on good quality stuff at the end of the day. And this is something where there can be a lot of room for error. So, whenever you want to get overlays, make sure that you’re looking at the samples and then making your decision.

Easier Process Than Countertop Replacement

When it comes to changing the countertops completely, it can be very daunting. You have to call in a professional. They need to take measurements, then you have to get a new material in the same measurements and then you have to install the heavy slabs, which is honestly a prelude to a heart attack itself, because all you’re thinking about is that the countertops will fall and crash at any moment.

Well, that isn’t the case with overlays and as mentioned previously, they are easy to install, so much so that you can do it by yourself. However, they are not the same as quartz slabs because quartz countertops are thicker and more durable. If you want durability and longevity, then pick quartz or granite countertops Potomac.

Not A Lot Of Variety

We, as humans, love a lot of variety. Even though variety is the very thing that can make us confused and indecisive, we still want a lot of options to choose from. Quartz, as a material, has a lot of variety, but when it comes to overlays, that isn’t the case.

The variety shrinks to a few options and you’re left with this really big void that can’t be filled, because you were expecting rows upon rows of colors. This is why a lot of people don’t go for overlays because they lack variety.

Wins In The Sustainability Department

Overlays win in the sustainability game, because they’re the same materials slabs are made from, but instead of just making one countertop slab with a single piece of rock, a lot of overlays are made to cover multiple countertops and who knows how many kitchens.

This is good, because at the end of the day, quartz is a man-made material and the manufacturing requires a lot of industrial processes that aren’t exactly good for the environment. So, if you’re opting for overlay worktops, then it is good because you’re being mindful of the surroundings and your planet.

Ideal For Small Kitchens

This might either be a pro or a con depending on the size of the kitchen you have. Mostly, overlays are popular in small kitchens where countertop space is limited. They are easy to install in smaller kitchens and it also becomes inexpensive.

However, if you have a bigger kitchen, then you might be in a fix, because overlays won’t look in bigger kitchens. There is something about slabs that just complements the bigger and spacious kitchens perfectly, so overlays may not look as great. So, depending on the size of the kitchen, you need to make your decision.

Looks Like The Real Deal

Quartz overlays are made out of quartz. They are just thin and are not as bulky as slabs, which is honestly something that people like about quartz overlays. They love the tile-like look and the thin side profile. Some people just don’t like the look of chunky countertop slabs and that is why overlays are perfect for them.

They’re not laminate countertops, which is a copycat of the material you want in your kitchen. They are the same thing, so overlays will look like quartz and you will love the look of these in your kitchen.

Aren’t As Durable

Quartz overlays are not durable. Sure, they’re made of quartz, but they’re not thick and robust like slabs. If anything, they’re like thin veneers of quartz and if you think about it – how strong can veneers be?

So, if you’re opting for quartz overlays thinking that they will be strong like slabs, then you might want to rethink things. That is not the case and you will need to change the overlays after a couple of months because that is literally how long they will last – so there is that.

Conclusion

Quartz overlays are quite amazing when it comes to updating old countertops without breaking the bank. However, they are not as durable as quartz slabs. Contact a quartz countertop installer Rockville for more details and choosing either overlays or slabs.