Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. With their durability, low maintenance, and customizability, it’s easy to see why quartz has become a top choice for many homeowners. One of the key decisions you’ll need to make when installing quartz countertops is how thick to get them. Let’s take an in-depth look at quartz countertop thickness to help you make the best choice for your home.

What Are Quartz Countertops?

Before we dive into thickness, let’s quickly overview what quartz countertops are. Quartz countertops are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz makes up 90-94% of the material, making it very hard and durable. The resins bind the mixture together, allowing it to be molded into slabs. Pigments add color and pattern.

Quartz slabs are manufactured in factories under precise conditions to create a consistent, non-porous material. The slabs are then cut to size for installation as countertops. Brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are leaders in quartz countertop production.

Compared to natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz is less prone to staining, etching, and heat damage. It’s also more flexible for colors and patterns. Quartz offers an attractive low-maintenance surface perfect for busy kitchens.

Why Does Thickness Matter?

When choosing quartz countertops, you’ll find options ranging from 0.39″ to 1.26″ thick. Why does a fraction of an inch matter so much? Here are the key factors to consider:

Strength & Durability

Quartz is an extremely hard, durable material. But the thicker the slab, the stronger it will be. Thicker quartz can better withstand impact from heavy objects dropped on the countertop without cracking.

Thicker quartz also resists warping or distortion over time. The added rigidity prevents sagging under the weight of appliances. This makes thickness especially important for larger spans without underlying support.

Feel & Appearance

Thicker quartz has a more substantial, luxe feel compared to thin material. Visually, thicker countertops appear more high-end and custom. The thicker profile is comparable to natural stone, with its weighty solidity.

Thinner quartz can look and feel a bit more like a veneer. For a seamless look, you’ll want your quartz to align with the thickness of adjacent surfaces like islands or backsplashes.

Installation & Fabrication

The fabrication process differs slightly for varying thicknesses. Thicker slabs generally require more reinforcement to support the added weight. This may involve additional rails, brackets, or supports.

For installation, the countertop needs to be uniformly supported below. Thicker material needs a more robust base construction to prevent any weak points. This usually involves multiple layers of plywood for a smooth, stable foundation.

Standard Thicknesses for Quartz Countertops

Now that we’ve looked at why thickness matters, let’s examine the standard options. Quartz countertops usually come in thicknesses of 0.39″, 0.47″, 0.55″, 0.67″, 0.79″, 0.95″, 1.06″, 1.22″, and 1.26″. Here’s an overview of each:

0.39 Inches

This ultra-thin quartz is the least common. It has a very sleek, minimalist look. But 0.39” thickness lacks strength for spanning large spaces. It also can’t support much overhang. This thin quartz is best used for wall panels, tub surrounds, or vertical applications rather than heavy use countertops.

0.47 Inches

Nearly half an inch thick, 0.47” quartz starts getting into the countertop realm. It can work well for delicate areas like vessel sinks that won’t see heavy use. The thinner material highlights the smooth surface. But 0.47” quartz still can’t span large unsupported spaces.

0.55 Inches

As we get to 0.55” thickness, quartz starts to have enough rigidity for basic countertop installations. This is the minimum recommended thickness for standard countertops. Fragile overhangs and large spans between supports should still be avoided.

0.67 Inches

This thickness provides a good balance of moderate thickness with affordable pricing. At 2/3”, 0.67” quartz has enough strength for most residential kitchens. It can comfortably handle some overhangs and open spans. The slightly thinner profile prevents excessive weight.

0.79 Inches

Nearly a full inch thick, 0.79” quartz delivers sturdy performance. It has the heft and feel of natural stone. Overhangs up to 6 inches are usually supported at this thickness. For most home kitchens, 0.79” gives an ideal combination of strength, cost, and visual appeal.

0.95 Inches

As you get close to a full inch thick, 0.95” quartz countertops start to take on a premium, luxurious look. Large overhangs and spans are easily accommodated. The thickness rivals granite and demands attention. But the thicker material comes at a higher price point.

1.06 Inches

Exceeding one inch thickness delivers maximum quartz strength and durability. Long spans of 10 feet or more are possible without support or seams. 1.06” thickness stands up to heavy commercial use in restaurants and offices. It’s also ideal for busy home kitchens with multiple cooks and entertainers.

1.22 Inches

At 1.22”, these ultra-thick slabs showcase quartz at its most robust. The thickness allows dramatic overhangs and cantilevers not feasible in thinner material. But the heavyweight slabs require serious reinforcement and support. This degree of thickness is primarily for a luxurious statement, not improved function.

1.26 Inches

Some manufactures offer 1.26” as their top tier thickness. It provides essentially the same capabilities as 1.22”, with that striking solid feel. These slabs weigh over nine pounds per square foot – similar to natural granite. As such, they need significant underlying support. Prices also hit luxury levels.

How to Choose the Right Thickness

Now that you’re familiar with the standard quartz thickness options, how do you decide the right dimension for your project? Here are some tips:

Consider overhangs.

If you want your countertop to extend past the cabinetry with a visually unsupported overhang, you’ll need sufficient thickness to allow this. A good rule of thumb is that quartz can overhang 1.5 times its thickness. So 0.67” quartz can have a 1” overhang, while 1.22” quartz can cantilever 18”.

Factor in spans.

If your countertop has any long open spans without underlying support, increased thickness adds strength. Spans over 6 feet long will require at least 0.95” thickness. Sections longer than 10 feet call for 1.06” or thicker material.

Align with other surfaces.

Your quartz thickness should match up with adjacent materials like islands, backsplashes, or thresholds. A 0.39” thin quartz backsplash would look strange with a 1.26” countertop. Keeping surfaces flush gives a cohesive finished look.

Consider traffic.

In high traffic areas, heavier thickness stands up to wear and tear. For family friendly kitchens or entertainment spaces, opt for at least 0.95” thickness. Commercial or gourmet kitchens benefit from 1.06”+ material.

Mind the weight.

Thicker slabs weigh considerably more than thinner ones. Make sure your base cabinets and supports can handle the load, factoring in appliances. Excessive weight can lead to sagging or buckling over time.

Decide on visual impact.

Do you want your countertop to have a delicate streamlined look? Or a bold solid statement? Thinner quartz tends to appear more sleek and modern. Thicker quartz makes a substantial visual impact evoking luxury.

Know your budget.

As a general rule, thicker quartz costs more due to higher material costs and fabrication expenses. Decide how thickness factors into your overall budget. You can potentially save on thickness to spend more on upgraded finishes or edges.

Standard Thickness Recommendations

Based on all these factors, here are the generally recommended quartz thicknesses for various applications:

• Low traffic areas like bathrooms or bar seating: 0.55” or 0.67”
• Standard kitchen countertops: 0.67”, 0.79”, or 0.95”
• Heavy use kitchens: 0.95”, 1.06”, or 1.22”
• Restaurant/office countertops: 1.06”
• Long spans: 1.06” or 1.22”
• Substantial overhangs: 0.95” or thicker
• Backsplashes/verticals: 0.39” or 0.47”

These guidelines provide a starting point for choosing the most suitable thickness. Your specific needs may allow you to go thinner or call for thicker dimensions.

Does Thicker Quartz Make It More Expensive?

In most cases, yes – thicker quartz carries a higher price tag. Because more material is used per square foot, your material costs will be higher. There are also added fabrication expenses. Thicker slabs need more reinforcement and support. That translates to increased installation costs as well.

Here are some ballpark figures on how quartz thickness impacts overall price:

• 0.47” quartz: $50-65 per square foot
• 0.67” quartz: $70-90 per square foot
• 0.95” quartz: $90-110 per square foot
• 1.22” quartz: $120-150 per square foot

These prices all represent installed costs, including material, fabrication, and installation. At the lower thicknesses, you may even see discounts compared to the 0.67” standard. On the higher end, prices are 25-50% more for the thickest 1.22” slabs.

How to Get the Look of Thick Quartz Affordably

Is your heart set on the luxurious look of thick quartz, but the cost is outside your budget? Here are some tips to get a high-end appearance at a lower price point:

• Opt for a thinner quartz material like 0.67” for the majority of surfaces. Use the thickest slabs only where needed as accents.
• Choose thicker edges and buildups to add dimension. This makes the overall countertop feel more substantial.
• Install a thinner quartz backsplash and thicker countertop to balance the two.
• Add decorative support legs or corbels under overhangs. The visual support minimizes needed thickness.
• Place cabinets strategically to eliminate long unsupported spans.
• Use 0.95” thickness just for areas that see heavy daily use. Use 0.67” for less utilized spaces.

With smart planning, you can maximize the visual punch of thicker quartz strategically placed. Combining different thicknesses creates dynamic interest at a lower cost than using extra-thick slabs everywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Thickness

As you make decisions about quartz countertops, here are answers to some common questions that come up regarding thickness:

Can you add thickness to existing quartz?

It is extremely difficult to add thickness to installed quartz countertops. The material is non-porous, so adhesives don’t bond well. The only real option is to remove and replace the entire countertop. Instead, it’s best to choose the preferred thickness at the time of original installation.

Does thicker quartz need more maintenance?

The thickness of your quartz countertop does not impact the maintenance needs. Whether 0.39” or 1.26”, quartz requires the same minimal care. Just wipe spills quickly, clean with soap and water, and avoid abrasive cleaners. Thickness doesn’t affect stain resistance.

Does quartz thickness include edging?

No, the stated thickness refers only to the countertop slab itself. Edges are built up separately based on the edge profile selected. So your final countertop will be slightly thicker than just the bare quartz material. Standard edges add 0.38”-0.75”.

Can you make 0.67” quartz thicker when installing?

It is possible for fabricators to laminate two 0.67” quartz slabs together during installation to double the thickness in needed areas. But this adds even more cost and only minimally impacts overall thickness. It’s simpler to purchase the thickness desired upfront.

Can thick quartz crack under its own weight?

When properly supported underneath, thick quartz countertops will not crack under their own weight. The material is extremely strong in compression. Cracks typically only occur from an impact force or when underlying support fails. Prevent this with adequate cabinetry and reinforcement.

The Bottom Line on Quartz Countertop Thickness

Quartz offers unique versatility in countertop thicknesses. Whether your priority is budget, durability, or aesthetics, there is a quartz thickness to suit your needs. Take the time to carefully analyze how you use your space, what spans require support, and what look you find appealing.

For most residential kitchens, 0.67” to 0.95” offers the sweet spot combining moderate cost, resilience, and visual appeal. Moving to 1.06”+ thickness builds ultimate strength and luxury feel. Just be sure underlying cabinets provide robust support. With the right thickness, you’ll enjoy beautiful, functional quartz countertops for decades to come.

How to Measure Quartz Countertop Thickness

You’ve selected the perfect quartz for your kitchen or bath remodel. Now it’s time for installation day. But before those slabs get permanently adhered in place, it’s crucial to verify you received the correct thickness. Learning how to measure quartz countertop thickness properly ensures no expensive surprises down the road. Follow this simple step-by-step process.

Gather Your Tools

To measure thickness accurately, you’ll need:

• Tape measure: Standard retractable tape measure marked in inches
• Depth gauge: A thin ruler-like probe for interior spaces
• Calipers: For precision measurements down to the millimeter

Make sure all tools are clean and calibrated for exact measurements. Avoid relying solely on the thickness marked on slab packaging, which may be approximated or rounded.

Locate the Thickest Point

Quartz slabs can have slight variations in thickness across the surface. Find the thickest spot, usually near the middle, to take your reading. Avoid outer edges or thin corners. Trying to save money with the thinnest areas will disappoint.

Measure Before Installation

It’s ideal to measure thickness before the countertop is installed. This allows any issues to be addressed immediately with the fabricator. Once quartz is adhered in place, remediation options are limited.

Find a Flat Edge

To get an accurate reading, you need a straight, flat edge of quartz perpendicular to the surface. This edge will form your zero point to measure up from. Avoid rounded corners or decorative profiles.

Use a Depth Gauge for Inside Spaces

For measuring thickness within confined cabinetry, use a thin depth gauge. Insert the probe tip on the flat edge with the ruler edge perfectly vertical. Slide down to contact the surface, and read the measurement.

Use Calipers for Precision

If you want a highly precise measurement, use a caliper tool. Calipers with flat footing plates work best. Open the jaws to surround the flat quartz edge, with feet flush to the surface. The caliper reading will indicate exact thickness.

Take Multiple Readings

To account for any localized variability, take thickness measurements at several points. Move down the edge surface, repeating the measurement process every few inches. Compare results to find the max thickness.

Consider Edges

Remember that edge build-ups and treatments will add extra thickness beyond the core slab. Account for the height of the edge profile when measuring overall countertop thickness from above.

Compare to Specifications

Finally, compare your real-world measurements to the ordered slab thickness specifications. Ensure your installed quartz matches what was expected from the purchase order. Address any discrepancies immediately.

With the right tools and technique, measuring quartz countertop thickness is a quick and straightforward process. Verifying exact dimensions before installation prevents problems down the road. Now you can install your quartz with confidence it meets expectations.

How Thick Are Different Quartz Brands?

If you’re shopping for quartz countertops, you’ve probably noticed not all brands offer the same thickness options. While one manufacturer might top out at 0.95”, another may go up to 1.26”. What accounts for these differences? And what thickness does each popular quartz brand carry? Here’s a helpful breakdown of the slabs available from leading manufacturers:

Caesarstone

• Thinnest: 0.39”
• Standard: 0.47”, 0.55”, 0.67”
• Thickest: 0.95”

Caesarstone covers all the basics from 0.39” thin panels to 0.95” heavy duty slabs. Their thickest options deliver a luxurious solid feel. Caesarstone uses a uniform thickness across each slab.

Cambria

• Thinnest: 0.39″
• Standard: 0.67″, 0.8″
• Thickest: 1.26”

With ultra-thin 0.39” to robust 1.26”, Cambria has one of the widest quartz thickness ranges. Their 1.26” slabs impress with commanding dimensions resembling natural stone. Expect to pay a premium for maximum thickness.

Silestone

• Thinnest: 0.59”
• Standard: 0.79”, 0.95”
• Thickest: 1.26″

Silestone skips the thinnest options, starting at 0.59”. They focus on heavier 0.95” residential