When you install a new countertop, you have a lot of choices to make. Even if you know the stone you want, you have to pick a pattern and color, your edge profile, the finish, and of course, the thickness.
For quartz, an engineered stone made from ground quartz, pigments, and resin, these choices are quite expansive– since quartz is manufactured, there are more color and pattern options available than many other types of stone! And while there’s no hard and fast rules for how to choose quartz, there are some guidelines you should consider.
Today, we’re going to take a look at quartz thicknesses and see how different thicknesses can impact your project.
Understanding Standard Thickness Options
Quartz countertops typically come in three standard thicknesses: 1 cm (3/8 inch), 2 cm (3/4 inch), and 3 cm (1 1/4 inch). Each size serves different purposes and is suited to specific applications.
The thinnest option, 1cm, is lightweight and often used for vertical installations, such as backsplashes, where weight and structural support are less of a concern. Or, if installed as a countertop, it is used with additional plywood supports to keep it from warping or cracking.
The 2 cm thickness is popular for residential kitchens and bathrooms, offering a balance between strength and cost. It provides a sleek, modern appearance without excessive bulk. For those seeking a bold, substantial look, 3 cm quartz is an excellent choice.
Its thickness adds visual depth and is highly durable, making it well-suited to high-traffic areas and heavy-use spaces. Both 2 cm and 3 cm quartz are much lighter than natural stones of the same thickness, so in most installations, weight is less of a concern than with granite, quartzite, or marble.
Your fabricator will be able to let you know about any weight safety concerns for your space that might impact the thickness of the slab you can choose.
Balancing Durability And Functionality
The intended use of your countertop plays a significant role in determining the appropriate thickness. In high-traffic areas like kitchen islands or workspaces, a 3 cm quartz slab provides enhanced durability and resistance to impacts.
This additional strength can prevent chipping and cracking over time, ensuring your surface looks and functions beautifully.
For areas with less intensive use, such as bathroom vanities, 2 cm quartz offers great durability without the extra weight and visual bulk. It’s a versatile choice that balances practicality with elegance, fitting seamlessly into a variety of designs. Choosing the right thickness ensures your countertop will stand up to the demands of its environment while maintaining its visual appeal.
Choosing The Right Quartz Countertops
The slab’s thickness is only one of the choices you have to make when choosing a quartz countertop. Thickness has a major impact on the look and feel of your quartz countertops, so it’s important to make the right choice.
And that’s where a trusted fabricator can make a ton of difference. When you work with a company like Granex, you’ll be working with the same team from start to finish. From choosing the slab to installation, we’re here for you every step of the way. Reach out today for a free quote for your countertop project!