Integral to any kitchen, the countertop can be a major focal point or merely a complementary piece for the entire style of the room. Either way, it’s a functional piece that must be carefully considered. While you may already have the color, shape, and material in mind, what you might not know is the correct thickness. If you’re planning a renovation soon, here’s what you need to know about the thicknesses of kitchen countertops.

A Guide to Kitchen Countertop Thickness

Standard

Generally, the industry standard for kitchen countertops is about 1.25 inches. Most slabs are available with this thickness, and it’s easy to find large pieces; this means you won’t have to worry about having too many seams or finding matching slabs. If you have a large kitchen and plan to have an island as well, this gives you the most versatility.

Thick Slabs

If you want a decorative edge, you’ll need thicker slabs. Even if you choose plain edging, thicker kitchen countertops can be quite a showstopper. Anything ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches is considered a thick slab. Although they aren’t rare, they aren’t as widely available as the standard option. Also, depending on the material, they can be extremely heavy, so you’ll need to make sure the underlying cabinetry is designed to support the weight. Furthermore, it’s more expensive than the standard slab, so it’s not the most cost-efficient choice for an entire kitchen; it’s best kept for something with a smaller surface area, like an island.

Thin Slabs

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you can also find slabs that are just 0.75 inches thick. These thinner slabs are usually used for bathrooms since those countertops aren’t subjected to as much wear and tear as those in the kitchen. Also, it’s easier to find them in quartz than granite, since the former is more durable and less likely to crack or chip. As you may expect, thinner slabs are more affordable than the standard. If you’re on a strict budget but still like the look of standard kitchen countertops, you can have an edging attached to the slab to create the illusion of a thicker piece.  

If you’re updating your home and looking for high-quality kitchen countertops, visit Rino’s Tile & Stone. Located in Anchorage, AK, they have a variety of shapes and sizes made from materials like quartz, granite, travertine, and marble. For a preview of their products, visit their website, or call (907) 743-1075 today to speak with a friendly representative.