Quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. When selecting quartz for your countertops, one important consideration is the thickness. Here is an in-depth look at the standard thickness options for quartz countertops and the factors that impact your choice.

Overview of Standard Quartz Countertop Thicknesses

The standard thicknesses for quartz countertops are:

• 3/4 inch
• 1 1/4 inches
• 1 1/2 inches
• 2 inches

3/4 inch is the minimum thickness that can provide adequate structure and support. 1 1/4 inches is the most common and popular choice for most homes. 1 1/2 inches offers a bit more durability and is recommended for heavier use areas. 2 inches is a premium thickness reserved for commercial projects or lavish residential settings.

Factors Impacting Your Quartz Thickness Selection

When selecting the right thickness for your quartz countertops, there are several factors to take into account:

Usage Level

If your countertops will undergo heavy daily use, such as in a busy kitchen, go with a thicker slab. 1 1/4 inch quartz provides adequate durability for most residential settings. Opt for 1 1/2 inch or 2 inch thickness for heavy duty commercial applications.

Installation Area

The span length between base cabinet supports will dictate the minimum thickness needed. Longer spans over 24 inches will require a thicker quartz slab to prevent sagging.

Budget

Not surprisingly, thicker quartz costs more. 2 inch slabs can be nearly double the price of 3/4 inch. Carefully evaluate whether the investment is worthwhile for your space.

Appearance

Thicker countertops have a more substantial, high-end look. If aesthetics are important, splurge on 1 1/2 inch or 2 inch thickness.

Edge Profile

Thicker slabs allow for more elaborate decorative edge profiles like triple waterfall edges. If your design calls for intricate edges, go thicker.

Pros and Cons of Standard Quartz Thicknesses

Here is a closer examination of the advantages and disadvantages of each standard quartz thickness:

3/4 Inch Quartz Countertops

Pros: Most affordable option. Can work for limited budgets. Suitable for low to moderate use.

Cons: Prone to damage under heavy use. Limited design options for edges. Higher risk of warping or sagging over time. Not recommended for major prep areas.

1 1/4 Inch Quartz Countertops

Pros: Ideal thickness for most residential settings. Provides durability at a moderate price point. Allows for standard edge profiles. Resists warping and damage under normal use.

Cons: Not the most heavy duty option. Premium profiles not possible. Can sag over 20+ inch spans.

1 1/2 Inch Quartz Countertops

Pros: Enhanced durability for busy kitchens. Minimizes chance of damage or sagging. Allows for more elaborate edges. Greater visual mass and depth.

Cons: Significantly higher cost. Overkill for some applications. Weight requires cabinet reinforcement.

2 Inch Quartz Countertops

Pros: Maximum strength and sturdiness. Outstanding durability for heavy commercial use. Accommodates the most intricate edge treatments. Striking thick visual appeal.

Cons: Expensive. Excessive weight demands cabinet re-framing. Overkill for residential use. Reduces leg room around islands.

Standard Thickness Recommendations

Based on the above comparisons, here are the standard quartz countertop thicknesses we recommend for various applications:

• Low use bathroom vanities: 3/4 inch
• Moderate use kitchens: 1 1/4 inch
• Heavy use kitchens: 1 1/2 inch
• Commercial projects: 2 inch

1 1/4 inch offers the best combination of reasonable cost, durability, and design options for most home kitchen quartz installations.

Achieving Full Thickness with Laminated Edges

With 3/4 inch or 1 1/4 inch quartz, the edges are typically built up with adhesive and profiling to achieve the full slab thickness. This laminated edge maintains the appearance of full thickness throughout. Laminated edges can deliver functional performance and style while optimizing cost.

Factors that Don’t Impact Quartz Thickness Selection

When choosing your quartz thickness, don’t worry about these factors which have no bearing:

• Number of joints: All standard thicknesses require seamed connections on larger projects. The need for seams is based on slab size, not thickness.
• Quartz material: Thickness recommendations apply universally across all quartz brands and colors. You don’t need to pick a certain brand for thicker options.
• Fabrication: All quartz thicknesses are fabricated and installed using the same techniques. The fabricator does not limit options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Thickness

Here are answers to some common questions about quartz countertop thickness:

Is thinner quartz cheaper?

Yes, as a rule of thumb, thinner quartz costs less per square foot. 3/4 inch slabs are the most affordable. Pricing goes up progressively for 1 1/4 inch, 1 1/2 inch, and 2 inch.

Does thicker quartz last longer?

Within reason, yes. A 1 1/2 inch quartz countertop will resist damage, gouges, and cracks better over time compared to 3/4 inch. But anything over 1 1/2 inch provides diminishing returns for residential use.

What thickness can overhang 15 inches without support?

A 1 1/2 inch thick quartz slab can cantilever up to 15 inches without requiring additional support or brackets. 3/4 inch and 1 1/4 inch should be limited to 12 inch overhangs.

Can you tell the difference between 3/4 and 1 1/4 inch quartz?

On close inspection, a 1 1/4 inch quartz countertop will have a more substantial feel and seamless appearance compared to laminated 3/4 inch. But the average observer will not notice a dramatic difference.

Is 2 cm the same as 3/4 inch?

Yes, 2 cm converts exactly to 3/4 inch. So a 2 cm quartz slab equates to 3/4 inch thickness. Some brands list prices and talk about sizing using the metric CM measurement.

The Bottom Line

When selecting quartz countertops, the standard thicknesses range from 3/4 inch to 2 inches. 1 1/4 inch quartz is adequate for most kitchens. Go thicker for commercial use or thinner to save money. Measure your cabinet span lengths, evaluate your budget, and factor in functionality needs. With smart planning, you can choose the ideal quartz thickness for your setting and design vision.

Conclusion

Quartz countertop thickness is an important factor that impacts cost, structural integrity, durability, and design. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of 3/4 inch, 1 1/4 inch, 1 1/2 inch, and 2 inch options. For most residential kitchens, 1 1/4 inch quartz delivers the sweet spot of reasonable cost and sufficient performance. Thicker quartz costs more but handles heavy use better and allows dramatic edges. Evaluate your specific needs and choose a thickness that fits your budget while meeting practical requirements. With the right thickness selected, you can enjoy beautiful, functional quartz countertops that provide lasting value and style to your home.