You are looking at countertops and trying to decide what thickness would look best where. It will depend on a number of factors. For one thing, you have to decide what kind of durability you want, the amount of money you’re willing to spend on getting it installed, the decorative look you’re trying to achieve and other factors.
Questions to Ask Yourself
So, what is the first thing you should do? Well, to begin with, the common thicknesses for countertops are 2cm and 3cm, plus there are other thicknesses that should be taken into consideration. You want to make comparisons with all thicknesses, along with their durability and ease of installation. The advantages should be given consideration. Look at the sizes and from there make decisions that best suit your purposes. In order to guide your decision, ask yourself what is my lifestyle and what would my preferences be that would guide such a decision.
Standard Thicknesses
Ultra-thin
This type of application of 1 to 1.2 cm is used in a number of different ways. One way is with prefabricated countertops with an edging that is laminated. This is a type of prefab and is usually fabricated outside of the United States, and the edges are both laminated and polished. Edging looks thicker because of the use of materials in strips that are positioned on the underside of a slab that creates a thicker appearance. One other way to use an ultra-thin thickness is with wall coverings that are hung vertically (cladding). Quartz is presented well in this instance because of its lighter weight and the delicate condition of the quartz. Fragility can be offset when a strong enough backing is used, like drywall or wooden board. Other uses for ultra-thin quartz are fireplace surrounds, paneling, and walls for showers.
2cm Thickness
A thickness of 2cm is considered standard throughout the industry and can be used vertically. It weighs quite a bit more than ultra-thin thickness and it is a more stable application. When a mitered edge is required on a countertop area such as the outside corners, the thickness compensates for adhesive coverage. A thicker countertop is used with prefab materials that have laminated edges and is even more popular when the edging is eliminated altogether. This look provides both a minimalistic and contemporary look to a kitchen space that people today are interested in using in their homes. One major advantage with 2cm material is that most countertop installations don’t require the added support of wooden boards. Plus, builders like the 2cm countertops that contain a laminated edge. These are the types of countertops found in newly constructed homes. Builders today want a countertop that appears both luxurious and elegant that cost a whole lot less.
3cm Thickness
While the 3cm thickness appears to be the standard for kitchen countertops, there are those who believe and highly suggest the use of thicker and heavier 3cm for countertop use. Though it is considered more expensive, it does offer several options that not only include stability and installation ease, but any damage is nominal as is support though plywood or some other material. In addition, a thicker countertop will last longer and be of greater value because of its stable structure and limited seaming.
Two inches to 5cm Thickness
There is yet another thickness, two inches to 5cm, which seems a good choice for marble and granite. These measurements are thicker than normal and are more expensive, but they add quite a luxurious look to a kitchen.
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Weight
When thickness is of concern, obviously a wider material can endure more weight. For most any application, whether it’s a countertop, tabletop, breakfast nook, island or other piece that will be used throughout, you’ll want to choose a thicker consistency. If you are looking at a more streamlined profile with less overhang and there isn’t a lot of foot traffic in the kitchen area, thickness shouldn’t be that much of a concern and you could use a thinner consistency.
Proportion
When looking at the proportion or bulk of a stone that is thinner in cut, you’re not adding weight or substance to your application. If the application you are using is thinner, you can use a coverage over it such as wallpaper or another material that is easily applied to achieve a distinct look, which saves you from having to tear out thicker material and haul it away as waste. Even though the space between 2cm and 3cm doesn’t seem that great, in a kitchen with a backsplash, you don’t want that extra width coming out and messing with your countertop space. Keep that in mind when dealing with a backsplash application.
Heaviness
A thicker stone will place added weight on a countertop application. If it is used consistently throughout an older kitchen that is vulnerable to the installation of heavier materials, you could have foundational issues. A thinner countertop will be less likely to add weight to create such a situation.
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Edging
Edging can make the difference when it comes to applying it around the entire perimeter of a 2cm countertop. It will appear thicker. The only thing to be aware of is that the thickness will be there but so will the seam. To give the look even more thickness with wider edging that doesn’t have to be laminated, utilize all options available such as a customized look with decorative edging to create an even thicker countertop for show and appeal.
Cost
When fewer materials are needed, you can save money as well as transportation costs. A 2cm slab is going to take up less space and saves wear on transport vehicles. Labor costs go down but that will depend on the stone. Thinner slabs of fragile stones may require more care and more fabricators to stop damage. Thicker options don’t require as much care since stronger slabs don’t need the handling care. A smaller slab will require extra support which means more steps in the process and more expense.
It is hard to know what thickness you should use for certain applications and if you’re unsure of what is best for your countertop transformation, or if you have simple questions that need answering, fill out the contact form and a representative will get back to you with the information you need.
