When planning a kitchen remodel, quartz countertop thickness is something you’ll definitely want to think about early on. It affects how your counters look, how strong they are, and even how much support they need. Whether you’re going for a sleek modern vibe or a chunky, bold edge, thickness matters. Most people don’t realize how much of a difference a few centimeters can make until installation day. Keep reading and we’ll tell you all you need to know about quartz countertop thickness. If you need a contractor for your home, we serve the entire Sacramento area including Roseville and Rocklin with everything from flooring to kitchen remodeling to home painting.
Thickness Options: 2cm vs 3 cm
Standard quartz countertop thickness usually comes in two main options: 2 cm (about ¾ inch) and 3 cm (about 1¼ inch). The 3 cm option is the most common in the U.S. It’s thicker, sturdier, and doesn’t usually require extra support underneath. Most homeowners go with 3 cm for that solid, substantial look that works well in kitchens and bathrooms. The 2 cm thickness is lighter and can be a great choice for vertical applications like backsplashes or wall cladding. It can also work for countertops, but it often needs extra support or a plywood base underneath to keep it from cracking. If you’re going for a more budget-friendly project or want a sleeker design, 2 cm could be the right fit.
Some designers even use 2 cm quartz with a built-up edge to make it look like 3 cm. It gives you the thicker look without the extra weight. Just keep in mind, the edge build-up requires a bit more labor and can add to the cost.
Pros and Cons of Thicker vs Thinner
Pros of Thicker Quartz Countertops (3 cm):
- More durable and less likely to chip
- Offers a high-end, substantial look
- Fits well with standard cabinet heights
- Easier, more straightforward installation (no added support needed)
Cons of Thicker Quartz Countertops:
- Heavier, which can increase labor costs
- Can feel too bulky in smaller or minimalist spaces
Pros of Thinner Quartz Countertops (2 cm):
- Lighter and easier to handle
- Great for modern, sleek designs
- Often more budget-friendly upfront
- Works well for vertical surfaces like backsplashes
Cons of Thinner Quartz Countertops:
- Needs extra support underneath for horizontal use
- More prone to damage if not reinforced
- Edge build-ups may add cost and complexity
How Does the Thickness Affect The Cost?
The thickness of quartz countertops can definitely impact the final price of your project. Thicker slabs cost more because they use more material. They’re also heavier, which can lead to higher delivery and installation fees. Fabrication costs can also go up with thicker quartz. Cutting, edging, and polishing a thicker slab takes more time and effort. If you’re adding features like waterfall edges or custom corners, the added thickness can make those details more expensive, too.
Thinner quartz may save money up front, but don’t forget to factor in extra materials for support. You might need a plywood base or extra bracing, which adds to the labor costs. So, while the slab itself is cheaper, the final price might even out depending on the setup.
Best Brands to Choose From
When choosing countertops, brand and material matter. Quartzite is a natural stone known for its high resistance to scratches and heat. It’s a great option if you want the look of marble but need something tougher. Quartzite is durable, stylish, and holds up well in busy kitchens. Caesarstone is an engineered quartz brand that blends natural quartz with a small amount of polymer resin. This mix makes it highly resistant to scratches and stains, which is ideal for kitchens. It’s more expensive than Silestone or quartzite, but many people prefer it because it’s low maintenance and long-lasting. Its surface doesn’t need sealing and cleans up easily with mild soap and water.
Because of its durability, modern look, and easy care, Caesarstone is one of the most popular quartz brands on the market. If you want a countertop that looks great and stands up to daily use, it’s a solid pick.
Things to Know About Quartz Countertops
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Resilience
Quartz countertops are known for being super durable. They’re resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, which makes them great for busy kitchens. The non-porous surface also means bacteria and moisture don’t soak in, making cleanup easy. You don’t need to seal quartz like you would with natural stone, which is a big plus. Just avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface—sudden heat can still cause damage.
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Heaviness
Quartz is heavy—especially the thicker 3 cm slabs. That means your cabinets need to be strong enough to support the weight. If you’re replacing old laminate counters, you might need to reinforce your base cabinets. The heaviness also affects transportation and installation. It’s definitely not a DIY-friendly material unless you have experience and the right equipment.
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Other Considerations
Quartz comes in tons of styles and colors, but once it’s fabricated and cut, it’s hard to make changes. Double-check your measurements before ordering. Also, while quartz is resistant to many stains, harsh cleaners or long-standing spills can cause discoloration. Use mild soap and water for daily cleaning and avoid anything abrasive to keep your counters looking great.
Do They Stain?
Quartz countertops are pretty stain-resistant, but they’re not completely stain-proof. Since quartz is non-porous, it doesn’t absorb liquids like natural stone does. That means spills from things like coffee, wine, or juice usually wipe right off if cleaned quickly. However, if you let certain substances sit too long—like permanent marker, nail polish, or harsh chemicals—they can leave marks or discoloration. It’s best to clean up messes right away and avoid using highly acidic cleaners to keep your quartz looking fresh.
Most Popular Colors
Some of the most popular countertop colors right now are neutral, easy to match, and give a clean, timeless look. Here are a few top choices:
- White with gray veining – Think marble-inspired looks like Calacatta or Carrara. These add elegance and go with almost any kitchen style.
- Solid white – Bright, clean, and modern. Great for minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired spaces.
- Light gray – Subtle and soft, light gray pairs well with white cabinets or wood tones.
- Beige or creamy tones – Warm and welcoming, perfect for traditional or farmhouse-style kitchens.
- Black or charcoal – Bold and dramatic, often used in modern or industrial designs. Looks great with white or wood cabinets.
- Concrete-look – A trendy, urban feel that works well in contemporary kitchens.
Where To Buy Them in the Sacramento Area
- Granite Outlet & Cabinet Center (Rancho Cordova)
Large selection of quartz slabs and offers full installation services. Great for full kitchen remodels.
- Bedrosians Tile & Stone (Sacramento)
Known for a wide variety of quartz options and top brands. Helpful showroom staff and design support available.
- IKEA Sacramento
Budget-friendly quartz countertops as part of their kitchen systems. Most options include installation.
- Local Fabricators and Stone Yards
Options like MC Granite offer deals, custom cuts, and installation.
The Guide to Quartz Countertops Thickness Conclusion
Choosing quartz countertops comes down to more than just color. Thickness, weight, and durability all play a role in the decision. Whether you want something bold or clean and simple, quartz gives you plenty of options to fit your personal style.
At LNL Construction, we’re happy to help with any questions you have about quartz countertops. We also handle full remodels and upgrades throughout the Sacramento area. From kitchens to bathrooms, we’re here to make your next project smooth and stress-free. Let us know how we can help bring your vision to life.
