Built-in soap dispensers are the perfect way to store soap in a hidden dispenser conveniently located where you need it. This can be a great alternative if you don’t have counter space for a countertop dispenser.
But wait – you have quartz countertops in your house. So, should you drill a hole in the countertop for the dispenser, or is that a bad idea? While that answer is up to you, we review a few points in this post that might help you decide, so continue reading to learn more!
Should You Put A Soap Dispenser On A Countertop?
Soap dispensers come in a few configurations, including countertop styles, built-in models, and wall-mounted options. In residential settings, wall-mounted soap dispensers are fairly rare (although they’re typical in commercial scenarios). Unless you want to branch out with a wall-mounted soap dispenser, you’ll probably use a built-in model or countertop style.
Countertop soap dispensers are convenient – they’re easily accessible and don’t require extra work associated with installations. Since they rest on the countertop, you don’t need to drill extra holes in your sink deck or countertop. On top of that, you can easily replace or refill them as needed.
With a built-in soap dispenser, they remain conveniently out of the way since the bottle sits underneath the countertop. If you choose this option, you might need to drill extra holes in your countertop.
Soap Dispenser Considerations
Before you commit to a built-in soap dispenser for your quartz countertop, there are a few things you need to consider. So, without further ado, here are a few factors that might affect your decision:
Faucet Accessories
Some faucets come with soap dispensers, while others don’t. If your faucet comes with a matching soap dispenser, you don’t need to worry about finding a matching dispenser. However, if your faucet didn’t come with a soap dispenser, you’ll need to find a matching model.
While this is usually fairly straightforward, as most brands offer standard finishes and matching models, it’s not always easy. So, before you drill a hole in your countertop for a soap dispenser, ensure you can find a model that matches your faucet.
Space Constraints
With a built-in soap dispenser, you’ll need plenty of space underneath the countertop. Generally, these dispensers feature a spout and pump that sits above the countertop or sink deck, with the majority of the dispenser resting below the counter.
If the base cabinet underneath your sink isn’t very large, you might not have enough room for a soap dispenser. So, before you buy a built-in soap dispenser, ensure there’s plenty of space in the cabinet beneath your sink. Of course, different sizes are available, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check.
Permanent Or Temporary
While countertop soap dispensers are temporary, built-in soap dispensers are permanent. Of course, you don’t have to leave the dispenser there forever, but if you drill a hole in your quartz countertop, it’s permanent.
That said, it’s important to note that you could cover the countertop hole later if you don’t want a soap dispenser anymore. Various brands sell covers and escutcheons that you can use to cover extra holes in your sink deck or countertop. While they’re usually used to cover pre-drilled faucet holes, you can get creative and use them for soap dispenser holes.
Even still, it doesn’t hurt to determine whether you want a permanent soap dispenser or one you can easily move if you decide you don’t want to keep it.
So, Should You Install A Soap Dispenser In Quartz?
Ultimately, the answer to this question is up to you. If you prefer the convenience and tucked-away profile of a built-in soap dispenser, then, by all means, add a soap dispenser! However, if you’re unsure whether you want a permanent hole in your quartz countertop, it might be best to wait until you’re confident you want to install a soap dispenser.
Can You Drill Extra Holes In A Quartz Countertop?
Perhaps you’re switching an old single-hole faucet for a three-hole model and need to drill a hole in your quartz countertop. Or, maybe you’re installing a built-in soap dispenser and need to drill a hole to accommodate the bottle. Either way, you’ll need an extra hole next to your sink.
Luckily, drilling a hole in your quartz countertop is doable. You’ll need a specific drill bit, as quartz is incredibly hard. With the right tools, careful measurements (and double-checks), and proper technique, you can drill extra holes in your quartz countertop.
Is It Hard To Drill Holes In Quartz?
Quartz is an incredibly hard material, which isn’t surprising given that it’s a naturally-occurring stone. Because of this, drilling holes in quartz can be somewhat tricky, especially if you don’t follow the correct techniques.
For example, if you don’t use the right drill bit, you blaze through drill bits rapidly. This means you’ll probably use at least a few bits before you drill through the countertop. Or, if you don’t hold the drill at a 90-degree angle, you risk cracking and chipping the countertop.
If you go too quickly when drilling through the stone, you could cause damage to the bit and the countertop. So, while it’s doable, you need to understand what you’re doing before you start.
How Much Does It Cost To Have Extra Holes Drilled In A Quartz Countertop?
If you don’t have the tools or skillset necessary to drill holes in your quartz countertop, you can always hire a professional to handle it for you. The process is straightforward and quick, provided you have the right tools.
On average, it costs between $200 and $500 to drill extra holes in an installed quartz countertop. Of course, costs may be higher or lower based on labor costs in your area, how many holes you need, and whether the counter is installed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can You Hide Extra Holes In A Quartz Countertop?
Absolutely, you can hide extra holes in your quartz countertop. So, if you decide you don’t want to keep your soap dispenser, you can always remove it and cover the gap. There are a couple of ways you can do this. The first option is to use a soap tray to cover the extra hole – store your soap dispenser and a few sponges on the tray.
Alternatively, buy a few faucet hole caps to cover the extra holes. They’re inexpensive, create a cohesive appearance, and prevent water from getting into the base cabinet. This is an excellent option if you don’t want the clutter of storing a soap tray on the counter or don’t have the space to keep it.