Categories: Kitchen Remodeling

Choosing the Right Thickness for Your Countertop

If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, you might want to upgrade your countertops, too. There are many options you can choose from, such as quartz or granite countertops. One of the things you also have to consider when choosing a countertop is its thickness. Many homeowners often purchase thinner, lower-quality countertops that might not be suitable for their kitchen or bathroom. 

In this post, we will also guide you on choosing the right thickness for your countertop.

What Are the Different Thickness Options?

For quartz countertops, there are three standard thickness options: 1 or 1.2 centimeters (cm), 2 cm and 3 cm. On the other hand, granite countertops only offer 2 cm and 3 cm thickness since granite is too fragile for 1 cm. You must know the differences of each thickness as they have their advantages. 

If you’re looking for a more affordable countertop, a 1 or 1.2 cm quartz countertop is the best option for you. This countertop can also be fabricated quickly, which means you don’t have to wait long for it. However, it’s important to note that because of its thinness, a 1 or 1.2 cm countertop can be very fragile. The size and color options are also limited. 

Thanks to its thinner profile, a 2 cm quartz countertop is a great choice if you’re going for a modern and minimalistic look for your kitchen or bathroom. Meanwhile, since a 2 cm granite countertop would require plywood support on top of the cabinets, you will need a laminated edge to hide it. Countertops with 2 cm thickness are also often seen in new housing where builders try to achieve a high-end look at a low cost.

For most countertop manufacturers, designers and architects, however, they would recommend 3 cm as the ideal thickness for both quartz and granite countertops. It provides the most durability as well as size and color options. A 3 cm countertop can also go directly on top of your cabinets without requiring plywood support. You wouldn’t also need laminated edges for a 3 cm countertop unless you want a massive, thick look.

What Is the Right Thickness for Your Countertop?

The most practical choice for your countertop thickness is 3 cm. A 3 cm countertop is the standard for custom-cut countertops and has the largest selection of colors and designs. Additionally, you wouldn’t need a built-up laminated edge to hide plywood underlayment. It provides the most strength and durability of any quartz thickness, too. 

While it offers more aesthetic appeal, a 2 cm countertop is not suitable for everyone. It lowers the overall height of your counters unless you make adjustments to your cabinets. A 2 cm quartz countertop can also be installed without plywood support, but needs support for overhangs that are over 8 inches. Both 2 cm and 3 cm countertops are far superior to 1 or 1.2 cm quartz, though. They may be more affordable, but 1 cm quartz requires plywood support and has very limited factory-produced sizes. 

Look no further than Granite Works for all your countertop needs. Call us today at (301) 640-5010, or fill out our contact form to set an appointment. We offer services in Maryland.

Granite Works

Granite Works is a premier granite fabrication and installation company. Serving homeowners, kitchen and bath designers, remodeling contractors, and custom home builders. We are your one-stop shop for granite countertops in Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia.

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