If you’re installing a granite countertop, there’s a lot to think about. You have to consider the color and how it will look in your kitchen or bathroom. You have to think about the finish– polished, matte, textured, or something else?
You have to make a decision about the edge profile. And you have to choose the thickness! The thickness of your granite countertop has a major impact on the way your countertop looks and functions.
Too thin and it won’t look the way you want; too thick, and it might be too much for your countertops. So how do you know what the perfect granite countertop thickness is? Here are seven pro tips that you can use to guide your decision.
1. Understand Standard Thickness Options
Before you choose a thickness, you need to know what your options are. Stone countertops like granite countertops typically come in two standard thicknesses: 2 centimeters (about ¾ inch) and 3 centimeters (about 1 ¼ inch). Each has its unique applications and advantages. Thinner slabs are often used in applications where weight matters, such as vertical surfaces, while thicker slabs offer greater durability, perfect for busy kitchens.
2. Evaluate Structural Support Needs
The thickness you choose should align with the structural requirements of your cabinetry. Thinner granite slabs may require additional support to prevent cracking or sagging, especially over extended spans or unsupported corners. If your cabinets are designed to handle heavier materials, a thicker slab is often the better choice for both stability and longevity.
3. Consider Your Design Goals
Granite thickness plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of your countertops. Thicker slabs create a bold, luxurious look that enhances the natural beauty of granite, while thinner slabs lend themselves to a more streamlined and modern appearance. Decide which style works best with your vision for the space before making your selection.
4. Factor In Edge Profiles
The thickness of your granite can influence the types of edge profiles available for your countertops. For example, intricate designs such as ogee or bevel edges may require thicker slabs to achieve the desired effect. If you’re envisioning a specific edge style, you have to make sure that your chosen thickness can accommodate it.
5. Assess Long-Term Durability
Durability is a top priority for any countertop, particularly in high-traffic areas like kitchens. Thicker granite is inherently more durable, making it resistant to chipping, cracking, and general wear over time. For families with active households or heavy daily use, the added resilience of a 3-centimeter slab may be well worth the investment. But if your countertop is in a less-frequently used area, like a guest bathroom, a 2-centimeter slab might be perfectly fine.
6. Weigh Budget Considerations
Granite thickness can significantly impact the overall cost of your countertops. Thicker slabs generally require more material and can involve higher fabrication costs, so they’ll usually be more expensive. However, their long-term benefits in terms of strength and visual appeal often make them worth it. Go over your budget carefully, balancing initial expenses with the value you’ll gain over time, and ask your fabricator about promotional colors or remnants to help save on costs.
7. Consult the Experts
Choosing the perfect granite countertop thickness involves more than just personal preference. An experienced professional can provide valuable insights into which thickness will best suit your needs, factoring in design goals, structural requirements, and budget. Their expertise can help ensure that your countertops are both beautiful and functional for years to come.
Installing Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a timeless choice that can transform the look and feel of any room, no matter what thickness you choose. Here at KG Stevens, we specialize in premium granite countertops and would love to help you find the perfect slab for your countertop project. Contact us today for a free quote!