Choosing countertop for your project is overwhelming, let alone deciding the thickness of your countertops.
If you have decided on granite countertops, you are at the right place.
The thickness of your granite countertop influences its durability, appearance, and installation cost.
It’s important that you make sure you choose the right one.
I am calling this my Best Guide for choosing granite countertops thickness !!!
After reading this article, you will be able to decide which thickness would work best for your project.
In this article, I will cover:
- What do you mean by thickness ?
- Why the thickness of countertop materials is important ?
- What are the Different Thicknesses available for new granite countertop
- Which thickness is good for outdoor countertops
- Standard Size of granite slab countertops
- How much will be the cost of granite countertops
- How much does it cost for countertop installation
- FAQs
Let’s get started….
This Post is about how thick are granite countertops
Best Guide for choosing granite countertops thickness
What do you mean by Thickness ?
The ‘thickness’ of slab of granite essentially refers to the depth or ‘vertical height’ of the slab used for your countertop. Thickness is usually measured in Centimeters or inches
Why the thickness of countertop materials is important ?
The right thickness of granite countertops is important because it influences where you will use it, how you will use it and what will be the design aspect.
What are the Different Thicknesses available for new granite countertop?
There are two standard thickness options available :
3CM Granite thickness
3 CM Granite slab thickness is 1 1/4 in inches. The thick granite slabs are a popular choice for kitchens and high traffic areas.
Here are some key features of 3 CM thickness:
Durability:
One of the key advantages of 3 cm granite is its durability.
It’s thick enough to resist cracking, chipping, or breaking under most normal kitchen usage scenarios.
That includes dealing with hot pots and pans or accidentally dropping objects.
Appearance:
The thickness of 3 cm gives the countertop a luxurious look and feel, which can add to the overall aesthetics of a room.
Granite at this thickness shows off the depth and patterns of the natural stone very well.
No need for reinforcements:
Due to its thickness, 3 cm granite countertops usually do not need plywood decking or additional support for installation.
Thicker granite can simplify the installation process and reduce costs.
Edge Profile Options:
The thickness of 3 cm granite allows for a wider variety of edge profile designs compared to thinner slabs.
This includes more intricate designs like a bullnose, ogee, or waterfall edge on the kitchen island.
2CM Granite thickness
2 CM slabs thickness is 3/4 inches. The thin countertops are most commonly used in bathroom vanities or other less-trafficked areas.
Here are some key features of 2 cm thinner countertop:
Durability:
While 2 cm granite is somewhat less durable than 3 cm granite, it’s still a hardy material that can withstand regular use in areas like bathrooms or as a decorative backsplash in the kitchen.
However, it might be less suitable for high-impact areas like a main kitchen countertop without additional support.
Appearance:
The thinner profile of 2 cm granite can provide a sleek, modern look.
It also allows the color and pattern of the granite to show through, though not as deeply as thicker slabs.
Requires reinforcements:
Unlike 3 cm granite, 2 cm granite countertops typically requires extra lamination, such as plywood decking or l-shaped brackets to reinforce the countertop.
This can add to the complexity of the installation process.
Edge Profile Options:
While 2 cm granite can still be shaped with a variety of edge profiles, the options are limited compared to 3 cm granite.
The thinner edge can be built up with a laminated edge to create the illusion of a thicker slab.
Weight:
2 cm granite is lighter than its 3 cm counterpart. It weighs approximately 12-13 lbs (5.4-5.9 kg) per square foot, making it easier to handle and install.
However, it also makes the material more prone to breakage during installation if not handled properly.
Cost:
The cost of 2 cm granite is typically less than that of 3 cm granite due to the reduced amount of material.
However, this cost saving can be offset by the need for additional supports and labor costs during installation.
Which thickness is good for outdoor countertops
For outdoor granite countertops, the recommended thickness is generally 3 cm.
Here are a few reasons why 3 cm thickness is often preferred for outdoor granite countertops:
Durability: Outdoor countertops need to withstand a variety of weather conditions, from heat and sunlight to rain and cold.
The 3 cm thickness offers better resistance to cracking or chipping compared to thinner options.
Support: A 3 cm thick granite slab is usually sturdy enough to not require additional support structures or plywood decking.
This can be beneficial in outdoor installations where these extra supports might be exposed to the elements.
Heat Resistance: Granite is a naturally heat-resistant material.
The 3 cm thickness further enhances this property, making it a good choice for outdoor kitchens where you may be placing hot grills or cookware.
Aesthetic Appeal: A thicker granite countertop can provide a more luxurious look, which can add to the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space.
Standard Size of granite slab countertops
A full slab of granite is large, the most common size is 9 to 10 feet long and 5 to 6 feet wide .
This size is commonly used for larger countertop installations like kitchen counters.
It allows for fewer seams and a more continuous pattern across the countertop.
How much will be cost of granite countertops
The cost of granite countertops can vary widely depending on a variety of factors including the
- Thickness of the slab,
- The color and rarity of the granite,
- The complexity of the installation,
- The cost of labor in your area,
- and any additional features such as edge profiles or backsplashes.
The final price can vary a lot.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the price range :
Material Cost: This can range from $25 to $70 per square foot for most stones, with some rare granites going even higher.
Installation Cost: This can range from $15 to $30 per square feet, depending on your location, the complexity of your project, and whether any additional work is required, such as removing and disposing of old countertops.
Additional Costs: These can include anything from the price of a sink cutout (which can range from $75 to $200) to the cost of a fancy edge profile.
Upgraded or complex edges can add anywhere from $10 to $50 per linear foot to the cost.
If you want a backsplash made of the same material, that would be an additional expense as well.
Please note, this is a rough estimate, you should get quotes from the stone fabricators in your area.
Caring for Your Granite Countertop
Once installed, maintaining your granite countertop’s beauty and durability is simple.
Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and warm water will help to keep the surface gleaming.
For those opting for a thicker slabs of granite , periodic sealing can further enhance the lifespan of the countertop.
FAQs
What’s the standard thickness for granite countertops?
The most common thickness is 3cm.
Does thickness affect the cost of granite countertops?
Yes, the thicker the slab, the more it tends to cost due to increased durability and quality.
Disclaimer :
The information in this post is for general informational purposes only. The author
and publisher are not responsible for any damage, injury, or loss that may occur from using the
information provided. Readers should follow safety guidelines and take necessary precautions
as listed by installation countertop professionals.
This Post is about how thick are granite countertops
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