Recently, kitchen islands have become something of a trend. We’re not talking about the tiny islands with wheels that hold booze. Convenient, yes, but nowhere near the size or holding capacity of kitchen islands made with large granite slabs. These kitchen islands of granite are bold, beautiful, and something that every cooking space could use. But, not everyone has a kitchen that can accommodate standard granite slab dimensions.
So, we’re going to give you the facts. Whether you have your heart set on a granite slab island or you’re simply contemplating the possibility, here is everything you need to know.
Standard Granite Slab Dimensions
Granite slabs, along with marble and other natural stones, typically come in a standard size slab. The average size for a countertop slab is 9.6 feet long by 5.6 feet wide. Most slabs on the market are about 0.75 to 1.25 inches thick, but the thickness may vary from seller to seller. A slab that is around ¾ inches thick will be around 12-13 pounds per square foot. Thick slabs (1.25 inches thick) average around 19 pounds per square foot.
When quarried, some slabs of granite are naturally larger than others. The larger the slab, the more expensive it is to ship across the ocean, as well as to handle and fabricate.
For example, at 1.25-inch thickness, Acapulco granite is typically 117-inches in length and 70-inches wide. White Carrara granite, on the other hand, generally runs around 112-inches long and 65-inches wide.
You may be wondering, “Why does a granite slab have to be 5.6 foot wide?” That is because the slab can then be cut right down the middle, creating two smaller slabs, each about 33-inches wide. The general depth of granite countertops is around 24-inches. With that, the fabricator has enough room to do whatever has to be done.
What About The Remnants?
Extra stone will often be produced during fabrication. Yet, we wouldn’t call those remnants a waste. You see, those leftover slices of granite can be used in other places around the kitchen. For instance, you might see smaller sections of granite used as backsplashes, kitchen islands, and bathroom vanity tops.
Granite Slab for Kitchen Island: What to Consider
As seen above, there is an average dimension for slabs of natural stone and quartz. You may find that you need to find slabs that are smaller or larger, depending on the size of the island you want. Plus, you need enough granite to cover the entire island. Otherwise, you may have a large seam running down the middle, which could detract from the overall appeal of the piece. Adding slabs means disrupting the pattern or having mismatched colors.
While experts can make the seam as unnoticeable as possible, it is always going to be there.
In order to avoid such a conundrum, we recommend some options:
- Alter the height of sections. You can make one section lower or higher to allow for bar-height stools. A two-level island allows you to use smaller slabs of granite so seams would not be necessary.
- Lowering a section of the island is perfect for children seating or for those who do a lot of baking and want a space for kneading, rolling, cutting, and decorating pastries.
- Split a single large island into two smaller units. Not only does this add functionality, but you can have multiple people working in the area at once.
Options for Granite Kitchen Island
Since you are going to be making a financial investment to install a granite slab kitchen island in your home, you may as well consider the possibilities that come with having something so grand. Beyond the additional counter space and aesthetic appeal, a large kitchen island can come jam-packed with features.
You can add the following to a kitchen island:
- Cooling and warming drawers
- Bar sink
- Stovetop
- Storage cabinets
- Garbage receptacles
- Seating
- Under-island lighting
- Dishwasher
- Miniature or wine refrigeration
- Minibar
- and more
Keep this in mind: Depending on how you choose to design the kitchen island will alter how much granite is needed and may affect the overall installation price.
How Much Does a Granite Slab Cost?
As we mentioned earlier, the bigger the slice of granite, the heavier and more difficult it can be to ship, handle, and work with. When something is as cumbersome as a slab of granite, you can expect installation prices to be high. How high?
A slab of granite that has not been installed ranges between $10-$40. That involves the color, quality, and weight of the granite. When you add in the price of installation, the price per square foot rises to $35-$66.
Let’s work out some of the math. Let’s say you spot a piece of a granite slab for kitchen island that is 7 feet long by 5 feet wide, or about 35 square foot. If the company charges around $50 for a single square foot, you are looking at a total of $1,750.00. But that is not adding any extras, such as cut-outs for sinks, edging, and backsplashes. Those will increase the price.
Design With the Slab in Mind
Nothing is better than a durable, beautiful granite slab for a kitchen island. You will be making a statement with your granite countertop, that’s for sure. Be sure to calculate the best dimensions for your granite kitchen island, because they can be quite large and pricey. But now that you know how to estimate the cost and the size, you will be able to discuss your options more readily.
Looking for granite companies nearby? You found one! Marble Concepts is here to help design your kitchen island. We have years of experience working with all kinds of natural stone. Why not contact us today at 215-396-7393 or by filling out the contact form? Our friendly team looks forward to telling you more about our services.
