Preparation for Basix Quartz Countertop Installation

Pre Installation Topics:

1. Color or Slab Selection

• 1.1. Consumer is responsible for deciding on color selection. Final selection should not be made from website pictures, magazines, literature or small samples. If necessary, the consumer should work with their supplier to see full size slabs or current samples
• 1.2. Fabricator is responsible for inspecting slabs for defects prior to fabrication.

2. Installing a quartz countertop may also require adding structural support to underlying cabinets since the slabs are extremely heavy. Review any needs with designer or installer.

3. Agreement should be made to determine location in slab for cutouts for sink, cooktop, other appliances, faucets and seam location(s).

4. Edge detail must be decided before fabrication can begin

5. Detail for all corners (inside corners and outside radiuses) should be reviewed.

• 5.1. Inside corners should have a minimum 1/4 inch radius
• 5.2. Outside corners should have a minimum 1/8 inch radius to eliminate sharp outside corners that could be a safety hazard.

6. Seam Expectations

• 6.1. Seams will be visible; about 1/16 +/- 1/32 of an inch
• 6.2. Will show pattern changes
• 6.3. May not be perfectly smooth
• 6.4. The consumer and installer should agree on the seam locations

7. Backsplash expectations

• 7.1. Quartz backsplashes of 2 or 3 cm will reduce total available countertop space
• 7.2. Do not let backsplash rest directly on deck (includes tiles and other solid materials). Installer should use spacers to keep backsplash off countertop.
• 7.3. Silicone is the best material to caulk the gap between the countertop and backsplash.
• The information contained in this bulletin is given by Basix Surfaces based on technical data which Basix Surfaces believes to be reliable. It is intended for use by people having knowledge of this technical area, at their own discretion and risk. Seller assumes no responsibility for results obtained or damage incurred from the use of this technical bulletin either in whole or in part by a buyer of Basix Quartz Surface.

8. Overhangs may need additional support. Review with installer what, if any additional support will be needed for your overhang underlayment, corbels or legs).

9. Confirm that the installer will not do any dry cutting or grinding on site or inside the home. When natural stone or quartz slabs are “dry” machined with saws and grinders, the machining can generate crystalline silica dust. Refer to our Safety Data sheet on our website for additional information.

Prior to "Installation Day"

10. Consumer must insure that subcontractor items completed; plumbing & electrical roughed in, flooring set, cabinetry permanently affixed, etc.?

11. Field measurements are to be taken once all cabinets have been installed in their permanent positions. In many cases, the fabricator will make a template of the installation area.

12. The sink(s) should be available as well as all appliances that require a cut out in the countertop so the proper cutout sizes are made.

Installation Day Tips

13. Confirm with installers that they will not be using hand tools to cut or grind the quartz. See previous comments regarding quartz dust.

14. Remove any breakables from the room and from any wall that has work being done against it.

15. Construction Dust Control Measures – be sure they take dust control measures that might be necessary, like covering doorways, air duct returns, furniture, etc. before starting. A fan blowing out from the work area is an excellent idea to control any dust or fumes. Dust generation at a construction site is normal and requires containment & control within the construction work area.

• 15.1. NOTE: The Construction Dust Control Measures do not apply to Respirable Silica Dust created from Dry Cutting or Grinding natural stone or quartz materials referenced previously.

16. Consumer and Installer must agree who is responsible for protecting the floors.

17. Basix Quartz Surface is a heavy material. Be sure the path from the delivery vehicles to the installation area is free from obstructions.

18. Clean out cabinets as dust and particulates may fall into any exposed areas.

19. Cabinets must be level (side to side and front to back). Installers must insure the area is flat and true to 1/8 inch over a 10 foot section.

20. Additional wood support strips may need to be installed on top of cabinets and against back wall, especially in corners. When completed, the countertop should not have any “give” when pressure is applied in a down force

21. Tops should have a gap of 1/8 inch abutting any walls or cabinet side walls.

22. Silicone should be used to adhere the countertop. It will take at least 24 hours to “set”.

Post Installation Tips

23. Installer should clean up after their work is completed. At a minimum, the area should be broom swept and all debris removed.

24. Remove any breakables from the room and from any wall that has work being done against it.

25. Obtain the following from supplier or download them from our website.

• 25.1. Care and Maintenance instructions
• 25.2. Warranty Information

26. Go to www.basixsurfaces.com website and register your installation with Basix Surfaces.