Yes, n some cases countertops are cut on site. The decision behind sawing a countertop on site is dependent on various factors. For example, a decision to cut on site is determined based on the chosen countertop material, specific tools needed, or the new countertop needing to be fitted for the kitchen then and there.
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Why do fabricators cut on site?
Fabricators usually cut countertop materials on site due to the sink type that exists or that they intend to install in the kitchen.
A fabricator’s job is to shape and cut materials to the desired dimensions of your countertop. Fabricators are the ones that make the template for a sink, faucet, and cooktop cutouts.
A great example of the type of sink that more often than not requires on site sawing is drop-in sinks. Drop-in sinks are sinks that have a visible lip that rests on the counter. Because they rest on the counter, fabricators are needed to ensure that they cut the material just right. Fabricators primarily work on site with stone countertop materials.
Are countertops normally cut on site?
It depends on the countertop material, as well as the need for it to be cut on site.
Having a countertop cut on site will add to the project’s cost overall, so if it isn’t necessary, avoid doing it. Beyond the price tag, you also have to deal with the noise, mess, and people in your home.
While some materials fabricators have to cut on site due to the existing sink or kitchen fixtures, most don’t. Therefore, the most significant factor in determining if the countertop material needs to be cut on site is the sink and the tool required to cut the countertop material.
For example, marble, when combined with a drop-in sink, needs a diamond-tipped saw to cut. As a result, fabricators will likely cut the marble slab on site to ensure that it’s the correct size according to the sink and counter. On the other hand, some materials don’t need on site sawing, such as wood – which is done off site – or laminate – which goes over existing or newly installed counters.
Will there be lots of dust in my kitchen?
This is entirely dependent on the type of saw used in the process.
Sawing down any countertop material is likely to produce some level of dust. How substantial that level of dust is, depends on the material and the saw used in the sawing process.
There are available saws that have built-in vacuums to help with the mess created in the sawing process. Beyond that, there are other methods of controlling the dust produced during an onsite sawing job, which depends on the material. For example, with concrete, you use water to help shape the concrete and control the dust.
Regardless of what level of dust will result in onsite countertop sawing, the fabricator should be warning you. You need to prepare for dust and make sure that your home is ready by covering or removing items from your kitchen and surrounding areas that you don’t want to be affected by the on site sawing process.
Can quartz be cut on site?
Yes, quartz can be cut on site and it can be cut off site. Most people prefer cutting quartz on site as it’s easier to cut to the required measurements.
As long as you have enough space, the right tools and the right skills and experience, you’ll be able to successfully cut to the size you want.
Can I cut the quartz myself?
You should not risk cutting the quartz yourself if you don’t have the experience. It’s extremely dangerous, you need to call a fabricator instead. If you can afford to buy quartz, you can afford to have someone install it. Simple.
