It depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you have a larger space, want more edge profile options, and need a stronger and more durable countertop, 3cm may be the best choice. If you have a smaller space, are on a budget, or need a lighter material for vertical applications, 2cm may be a better fit.
Ultra-Thin
The ½ inch thickness is the thinnest option available for quartz countertops. This thickness is often used in applications where weight and cost are primary concerns. Aesthetics: Thin countertops provide a sleek, minimalist look that can be ideal for contemporary and modern designs.
1. What is Standard Countertop Thickness? The standard thickness of a countertop typically ranges from 1.25 inches to 1.5 inches. However, the thickness can vary depending on the requirements and the type of material used.
When it comes to 2 cm countertops, you have the option of not buying plywood for additional support. However, you will need to purchase plywood if you have an overhang over eight inches. If you are looking for something more affordable that still provides a good aesthetic, you can choose a 1.3 cm quartz.
2.1 Cost-Effective: 2cm countertops are typically more affordable than 3cm options. If you have a limited budget or need to cover a large area, opting for 2cm thickness can help reduce costs.
First, let's define the difference between the two thicknesses. 3cm (or 1 1/4") is the standard thickness for kitchen countertops, while 2cm (or 3/4") is typically used for vertical applications like backsplashes, bathroom vanities, and custom edge profiles.
The length of granite overhang available without support depends on a few factors: Granite thickness – granite tops with a thickness of 3 cm can have an 8-10 inch overhang without additional supports. If your granite top has a 2 cm thickness, we recommend attaching a support system should the overhang exceed 6 inches.
While it's true that quartz can be made thinner — and it sometimes is — the standard thickness is the same. Both natural stone and engineered quartz countertops have a standard thickness of 3 cm or about 1.25 inches.
Countertop manufacturers use particleboard in a variety of sizes, but generally ¾” thick panels in 30″ widths in 8', 10' and 12' lengths are most suitable for countertop cores. Unfinished particleboard's smooth, consistent surface is ideal for lamination.
Ultra-Thin Profiles:
Ultra-thin profiles are the supermodels of the countertop world – sleek, elegant, and surprisingly strong. At 2cm thick or less, these slim beauties, like Vicostone's "Bianco Venato," offer a minimalist look that says, "I'm sophisticated, but I don't need to shout about it."
Countertop depth standard measure is 25 ½ inches, though this varies based on appliance depths, room size, base cabinet size, and the backsplash details. Having a standard depth countertop helps maximize your space and enhances the look of your kitchen. Cabinet depth standard measure is 24 inches.
The type of material your countertop is made of plays the most significant role in its weight capacity. Granite and Quartz: Granite countertops and quartz countertops are known for their exceptional strength and can typically handle substantial weight, often up to 1,000 pounds if evenly distributed.
The industry standard thickness for kitchen, bathroom, and other countertop surfaces in natural stone is 1.25 inches. This thickness provides the strength and stability required to create an unbroken surface without the need for stabilizing it with a plywood backing.
Standard Depth of Kitchen Countertops: Kitchen countertops are the workhorses of the culinary space, providing ample workspace for meal preparation and cooking. The standard depth of kitchen countertops is typically 25.5 inches (64.7 cm).
Does countertop thickness even matter? The most common stone thicknesses for projects, in centimeters (cm) are 1 cm (3/8”), 2 cm (3/4”) and 3 cm (1 1/4”). Even though they may all be the same material, they are not all used in the same way.
A 2cm countertop is typically about 3/4 inch thick, while a 3cm countertop is about 1¼ inches thick. This difference of 1/2 an inch can make a big difference in some aspects like durability, aesthetics, cost, and installation.
A 3cm top would also be considered more durable as it is thicker than a 2cm top. This comes into play as a kitchen countertop would experience more wear and tear than other areas in a home. It has been common to use 2cm materials in bathrooms as it is less of a statement of your home compared to the kitchen.
2cm Quartz
If you do decide to use this level of thickness for your quartz countertops, you'll most likely have to use plywood underneath to ensure it has extra support.
Quartz is one of the best materials for those looking to create a countertop overhang. The strength and durability ensure it can support up to a 14-inch overhang without extra support. However, 70% of your quartz countertop must be supported by cabinetry and the thickness of the quartz must be factored in as well.
Traditionally, granite countertops are available in two options: two centimeters and three centimeters-thick.
The maximum overhang is no more than 1/3 of the total dimension of the countertop – not to exceed 15”.
Edge Banding: Edge banding will help to band the exposed edges of the plywood. This can be a thin strip of wood or veneer that matches the finish of the quartz or granite countertop. Edge banding hides the plywood and adds a professional touch to the overall appearance.