Is remodeling your kitchen on your mind ? If you have decided on getting Quartz countertops, you have come to the right place.
Quartz countertops have gained popularity as they combine engineered material’s durability with natural stone look options that are available in lot of different colors and patterns.
The thickness of quartz countertops is an important factor as it impacts both its function and aesthetics of the space.
Important: On this website, I feature a select number of partners and companies that have products that could help my audience. As an Amazon associate, When you purchase something through my partner links, I might get paid for the referral at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure here.
In this article I will cover in depth:
Let’s get Started…
This Post is about Thickness of Quartz Countertops
Thickness of Quartz countertops (quartz thickness in inches)
Quartz countertops generally come in three thickness variants: 1cm (3/8 inches), 2cm (3/4 inches), and 3cm (1 1/4 inches).
- The 1cm Option (3/8 inches) : The lightest option, It’s mostly used for vertical installations like walls or sides of a cabinet.
- The 2cm thickness (3/4 inches) is a standard choice for countertops. It’s sturdy enough for most uses and can bear the weight of appliances.
- The 3cm thickness (1 1/4 inches) is the most robust of all. It provides ample support for any countertop application and there is no need for edge buildup.
Importance of Thickness in Quartz Countertops
The thickness of quartz countertops is an important factor. Here are four things to consider :
Durability and Strength: The thicker the countertop are the strongest and more durable. Mostly kitchen countertops use 3CM or 1.25 inches. The bathrooms tend to use 2CM.
Design and Aesthetics: The thickness can also affect the countertop’s visual impact. A thicker countertop makes a bold statement, while a thinner one gives a sleek, modern look.
Cost: The thickness directly impact the cost. More thicker it, which means more material, which results in higher price.
Installation and Support: Thicker countertops will need more support and potentially a more complex installation, which could increase the overall cost.
How to choose the perfect quartz countertop thickness for your home ?
Consider Your Kitchen’s Design
Consider the overall design of your kitchen. If you’re going for a minimalist look, thinner quartz countertops may be best.
Conversely, if you’re aiming for a more opulent look, thicker quartz countertops would be ideal.
The thicker quartz countertops are more suited for traditional or farmhouse style kitchens.
The thinner quartz countertops are better to create sleek, modern, contemporary or minimalist designs.
Think About Functionality and Durability
When it comes to daily use, thicker quartz countertops tend to be more resilient to wear and tear.
Consider how you plan to use your countertop.
If your kitchen or bathroom sees a lot of traffic or heavy use, a thicker countertop may be more suitable due to its increased durability and resistance to damage.
If you’re placing heavy appliances on the countertop, like a large mixer in a kitchen or a substantial sink in a bathroom, a thicker countertop can provide added strength and support.
Support and Structural Considerations
Thicker countertops need more robust support due to their increased weight.
You’ll need to ensure that your cabinets or other support structures can handle this weight.
If you’re considering an overhang, you’ll need to factor in support mechanisms.
For instance, for overhangs larger than 6 inches, additional support like brackets or corbels will be necessary.
Keep Your Budget in Mind
Lastly, your budget will significantly impact the thickness of your quartz countertops. Thicker options tend to be more expensive.
Thicker quartz countertops use more material, and thus they are more expensive.
Moreover, they can also be more costly to install due to their weight, requiring more labor or specialist equipment.
If budget is a concern, you might consider a “laminated edge” option, which involves attaching a strip of quartz to the edge of a thinner countertop to create the appearance of a thicker slab.
This method provides the aesthetic of a thick countertop without the added cost of a full thick slab.
Comparing Quartz Countertop Thickness to Other Materials
Quartz vs. Granite Thickness
Both quartz and granite are popular choices for countertops due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.
The standard thickness for both quartz and granite countertops usually is 1.25 inches for kitchen countertops, and 0.75 inches for bathroom countertops.
However, quartz countertops are often available in a wider range of thicknesses.
This is because quartz is an engineered stone, meaning it’s more flexible in design, whereas granite, being a natural stone, is usually limited to the thicknesses in which it’s quarried and cut.
Quartz vs. Marble Thickness
Marble is a beautiful and luxurious natural stone.
It’s also softer and more porous than both quartz and granite.
The standard thickness for marble countertops is generally the same as quartz and granite: 3 CM for kitchens and 2CM for bathrooms.
Because marble is a softer material, you might think to consider a thicker marble countertop if your kitchen or bathroom sees a lot of heavy use to compensate for its lower durability compared to quartz.
For more expensive marbles from Italy, the most popular thickness used is 2CM.
Using 2CM thickness reduces the quantity of material and helps in lowering the cost.
Quartz vs. Solid Surface Thickness
Solid surface countertops, such as Corian, are made from a blend of acrylic polymers and natural minerals.
They offer a seamless look and are available in a wide range of colors and styles.
The standard thickness of solid surface countertops is typically around 0.5 inches, which is thinner than most quartz, granite, or marble countertops.
However, solid surface countertops are often installed with a built-up edge to give the appearance of a thicker surface.
Despite being thinner, solid surface countertops are still durable and resistant to stains and scratches.
However, they may not withstand heat as well as quartz, granite, or marble.
YOU MAY LIKE THIS RELATED POST
Edge Styles / Sink & Faucet Considerations
The thickness of your quartz countertop also influences the types of edge profiles available to you.
Thicker countertops offer more options for intricate and complex edge designs.
More complex or intricate edge profiles, like ogee or waterfall edges, might look better and be easier to fabricate with thicker countertops.
Simpler edge profiles, like straight or eased edges, can work well with any countertop thickness.
Your sink and faucet installation can also be affected by the thickness of your countertop.
For undermount sinks, the thickness of the countertop will determine how much of the sink protrudes below the base cabinets.
This could influence the positioning of the sink’s mounting hardware.
Thicker countertops may also require longer sink clips or require the sink to be set further back from the edge of the countertop.
For faucet installation, make sure that the faucet stem is long enough to accommodate the thickness of the countertop and the mounting hardware.
Resilience of Thick Quartz Countertops
Resilience in terms of material or quartz means the material’s ability to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
This engineered stone is composed of around 90-94% natural quartz, one of the hardest minerals on earth, combined with resin binders, making it incredibly resilient.
The thickness of your countertop can influence its durability and resilience in a few ways:
Strength and Durability
Thicker quartz countertops generally offer increased strength and durability. The extra material can make the countertop more resistant to damage from impact, such as dropping heavy objects on the surface.
Heat Resistance
Quartz is a heat-resistant material, and a thicker countertop will naturally have slightly better heat resistance due to the extra material.
However, it’s important to remember that while quartz is heat-resistant, it’s not heat-proof.
You should always use heat pads or trivets under hot pots and pans to protect the countertop surface.
Scratch Resistance
Quartz is highly scratch-resistant, and a thicker countertop can offer slightly better resistance to scratches and cuts.
However, you should still use cutting boards to protect your quartz countertops from potential damage.
Weight and Support
While thicker quartz countertops offer increased resilience, they also weigh more.
This increased weight means that they require sturdy cabinet and kitchen construction to provide adequate support.
Weight of Thick Quartz Countertops
This weight is an important consideration when planning for installation, as it will determine the strength of the support required.
- 2cm (approximately 0.75 inches): A 2cm thick quartz slab weighs about 12-13 pounds per square foot.
- 3cm (approximately 1.25 inches): A 3cm thick quartz slab weighs about 18-20 pounds per square foot.
Support requirements for different thickness quartz countertops
Here’s a general guideline for each thickness:
1.3 cm (1/2 inch):
- This is the lightest and least sturdy of the quartz thickness options.
- If used for countertops, it typically needs the most support.
- This might include full plywood decking underneath the quartz or substantial cabinet structure beneath it.
- It’s best used in areas where it won’t bear heavy loads.
2 cm (3/4 inch):
- 2 inch quartz countertop typically needs support every 24 inches.
- As with the thinner option, support can come in the form of cabinets or plywood underlayment.
- It’s essential to ensure the countertop is evenly supported to prevent stress points that could lead to cracking.
3 cm (1 1/4 inches):
- This is the sturdiest thickness and often doesn’t require additional support beyond standard cabinet structures for spans up to 36 inches.
- However, for larger overhangs or unsupported spans (such as a breakfast bar), you may need additional support in the form of brackets or corbels.
Detailed steps to install quartz countertops of different thicknesses
Installing quartz countertops, regardless of thickness, generally follows the same basic steps.
However, thicker countertops will be heavier and may require additional supports.
Always remember that installing quartz countertops is a heavy and complex job, and it’s generally recommended to have professional help.
Here are the basic steps for installing quartz countertops:
- Measure Your Space: First, accurately measure the space where the countertop will be installed.
This includes the length, width, and depth of the area. If there is a backsplash, this should also be measured.
- Choose Your Countertop: Once you have your measurements, select your quartz countertop, including color, pattern, and thickness.
As previously mentioned, thickness can affect the weight and required support for the countertop.
- Template Creation: Professional installers often create a template of your cabinet layout to ensure an accurate fit.
They will account for appliances, sinks, and any other elements that will interface with the countertop.
- Order and Fabricate Your Countertop: With your selections and measurements, the quartz countertop can be ordered.
The fabricator will cut the quartz slab based on the template, including cutting out spaces for the sink and faucet and shaping the edges as desired.
- Prepare for Installation: Before the installation, ensure that the base cabinets are strong and level.
If they are uneven, the countertop may crack.
Install any additional supports needed, especially for heavy, thick countertops or areas with overhangs.
- Install the Countertop: Once prepared, the countertop can be installed.
The quartz countertop will be lifted into place.
This is where the weight of a thicker countertop can make the job more challenging, often requiring several people or special equipment.
- Secure the Countertop: After positioning, the countertop is secured to the cabinets with silicone adhesive.
- Install Sink and Faucet: If undermount sink is to be installed, it is done after the countertop is secured.
Drill holes for the faucet if they were not made during fabrication.
- Sealing and Cleaning: While quartz doesn’t require sealing like natural stone, the countertop should be cleaned after installation.
Remember, installation is a difficult and complex process that typically requires professional experience and tools, especially for thicker and therefore heavier countertops.
Always consult or hire a professional to ensure a safe and correct installation.
YOU MAKE LIKE MY DETAILED ARTICLE BELOW
Pros & Cons of Different Quartz countertop thicknesses [2cm vs 3cm quartz countertop thickness]
1cm – 1.2(cm (1/2 inch) Thickness
Pros:
- Cost: This is usually the most economical choice because it uses less material.
- Weight: Being thinner, it’s lighter and easier to handle during installation.(perfect for vertical applications like shower walls and fireplaces.
Cons:
- Strength: This thickness is less durable and may require additional supports or laminated edges to prevent breakage.
- Aesthetic: It might not have the substantial, high-end look that some homeowners prefer in a kitchen.
2cm (3/4 inch) Thickness
Pros:
- Balance: 2cm quartz countertop offers a good balance of cost, weight, and durability for most applications.
- Versatility: Suitable for both kitchen and bathroom applications.
- Design: It offers a sleek appearance without appearing overly bulky.
Cons:
- Support: It often requires plywood backing for additional support, particularly for larger spans or overhangs.
- Weight: While lighter than the 3cm thickness, it still requires careful handling during installation.
3cm (1.25 inches) Thickness
Pros:
- Durability: The increased thickness provides additional strength and durability, making it ideal for heavy-use areas like kitchens.
- Aesthetics: This thickness has a luxurious, substantial look that many homeowners prefer.
- No Additional Support: It typically does not require additional supports or plywood backing.
Cons:
- Cost: Due to the increased material usage, this is typically the most expensive option.
- Weight: The increased thickness means increased weight, which can make the countertop more challenging to handle during installation and may require more robust cabinetry for support.
Design trends in quartz countertop thickness
2cm vs 3cm countertop
Trends in the thickness of quartz countertops will depend on aesthetic preferences, practical considerations, and the specific design of a kitchen or bathroom.
For example, thicker countertops are often preferred in open-concept or chef’s kitchens where durability and a luxurious appearance are important.
Thinner countertops may be more popular in modern, minimalist designs.
One of the popular design trend has been the Waterfall edges, where the quartz countertop material spills over the side of a kitchen island or bench down to the floor, making the thickness of the countertop more of a feature.
Another trend is the use of mitered edges to give the appearance of a thicker slab without the additional weight or cost.
This involves cutting the edge of the countertop at a 45-degree angle and attaching a second strip of quartz underneath to give the illusion of a thick countertop.
YOU MAY LIKE THIS SIMILAR POST
Maintaining different thickness quartz countertops
Maintaining and caring for quartz countertops, irrespective of their thickness, involves similar processes. Here’s a guide:
- Daily Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a mild detergent.
Avoid harsh cleaning products or abrasive scourers, which can damage the finish.
- Stain Removal: For tougher stains, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner.
If you encounter dried spills or heavy stains, gently scrape away the bulk of the material with a plastic scraper and then clean with a mild detergent.
- Avoid Heat Damage: Though quartz is resistant to heat, it’s not completely heat-proof.
Always use trivets or hot pads under pots, pans, or hot hair appliances.
Repairing and Polishing Quartz Countertops:
Minor Scratches: You can use a non-abrasive cleaning pad and a quartz cleaner to buff out minor scratches.
Major Scratches or Chips: These should be repaired by a professional.
They have the tools and materials to fill and polish the surface to match the rest of the countertop.
Polishing: Generally, quartz countertops do not require polish because they have a built-in shine due to their manufacturing process.
However, if the surface seems dull, use a surface cleaner designed specifically for quartz surfaces to restore the shine.
Avoiding Common Mistakes and Damages:
Do not use harsh chemicals: Quartz countertops can be damaged by high-pH or low-pH substances, like bleach, oven cleaner, nail polish remover, turpentine, drain cleaner, dishwasher rinse agents, or any cleaners with pumice.
Avoid excessive weight: Although quartz is a robust material, it can crack if subjected to excessive weight. Do not stand or sit on your countertops, especially near the edges or unsupported areas.(espicially with thinner thickness quartz)
Use cutting boards: Quartz is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof.
It’s advisable to use cutting boards to prevent possible scratches from knives or other sharp objects.
Avoid excessive heat: As mentioned earlier, despite its heat resistance, exposing quartz countertops directly to high temperatures can cause damage.
Best Brands for Quartz Countertops
There are several brands known for their high-quality quartz countertops, offering a range of thicknesses to suit various needs.
Caesarstone: Known for their innovative designs and durable surfaces, Caesarstone offers a range of thicknesses and sizes for their quartz countertops. They’re also a pioneer in the field and have a long-standing reputation for quality.
Silestone: This brand, by Cosentino, offers quartz countertops in various thicknesses. They are well-regarded for their durability, as well as their extensive range of colors and styles.
Cambria: An American-made brand, Cambria is known for their luxurious designs and high-quality quartz surfaces. They offer a broad selection of colors and styles.
MSI Q Quartz: MSI offers a broad range of quartz countertop options, with a variety of colors and styles to choose from. Their products are known for being both durable and affordable.
LG Viatera: Known for its durability and extensive color options, LG Viatera offers quartz countertops that are designed to handle everyday use while still looking beautiful.
PentalQuartz: PentalQuartz offers a blend of natural quartz and pigments to create their durable countertops. They are known for their modern aesthetic and range of color options.
HanStone Quartz: HanStone offers quartz surfaces in a variety of colors and styles. They are known for their high-quality, durable products.
Pin it to find it later
FAQs
What’s the most recommended thickness of quartz countertop ?
The most recommended thickness is 3CM for kitchen countertops.
Will quartz countertop stain ?
While quartz countertops are highly stain-resistant, it’s important to take precautions to minimize the risk of staining. Do not leave spills on the countertop for long periods of time.
Do you have to seal Quartz countertops ?
No, sealing is not required for quartz countertops.
Do quartz countertop chip ?
Quartz countertop are generally more resistant to chipping than natural stone.
Avoid dropping heavy objects on the countertop, use cutting boards when working with sharp knives, and be mindful of sharp or pointed objects that could impact the edges.
Which is better 2cm or 3cm quartz?
It depends on where are you installing. 2CM is better for walls while 3CM is better for countertops.
What is normal quartz slab size?
The common size of quartz slab is 108 inches (9 feet) to 120 inches long. The standard width is 54 inches.
What is the most popular quartz countertop edge?
The eased edge is the most popular countertop edge.
It is a simple and straight edge profile with slightly rounded corners.
How thick are quartz countertops ?
Quartz couterrtops are 3CM or 2 CM thick.
This post was about Thickness of Quartz Countertops
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.
Leave a Reply