If you are looking to renovate your kitchen and confused in choosing 2cm vs 3cm quartz countertops then this article will solve this confusion for you!!
Quartz countertops have been rising in popularity and are found in many modern kitchens. They are famous because of the natural stone and polymer resin materials that make the item almost indestructible. Besides that, quartz countertops are chic, durable, and low-maintenance.
However, you must remember that quartz countertops come in multiple thicknesses. Most people don’t realize this and get the thinnest item for their kitchen, which causes various troubles in the future. This is why it is essential to select the right thickness for the best support.
Typically, you will have to consider 2cm vs. 3cm quartz countertops. If you’re looking to learn more about them, your search ends now. Here is a complete comparison guide to help you understand the use of these kitchen countertops.
What Is The 2cm Quartz Countertop?
The 2cm quartz countertop thickness is considered the standard value in the industry for most kitchens. You can use them vertically, and they weigh more than the ultra-thin or 1cm countertops. This is why the application of this type is more stable.
Typically, this countertop comes with prefab materials and laminated edges. However, you will also encounter models with no edging for a better look. Many people choose this countertop because it does not require wooden board support during installation.
Besides that, most builders prefer the 2cm countertops with laminated edges and may install them as the standard option if you don’t have any preference. Typically, you will find this countertop type in new homes because of the modern interior.
What Is The 3cm Quartz Countertop?
The 3cm thickness is the preferable value for most quartz kitchen countertops. Not only that, but you will also find numerous 3cm thick granite surfaces. This type provides the highest durability, color options, and size flexibility during installation.
A primary feature of the 3cm quartz countertops is that they don’t require plywood for support. Meanwhile, they also lack laminated edges, so you will rarely encounter such countertops. Typically, the few with edging are customized to achieve a thicker look.
Many people choose this countertop because of its ease of installation and high stability. Besides that, this type is also readily available on the market and provides more flexibility. So you can easily choose the right design for your needs.
2cm Vs. 3cm Quartz Countertops: The Primary Differences
Here are the top differences between the 2cm vs. 3cm quartz countertops to help you understand their purpose better:
3cm Countertop Has A Bigger Profile
The top difference between the two countertops is that the 3cm has a better profile. Typically, 2cm slabs are equal to ¾ inches profile while the other type is 1 ¼ inch. This is why the 3cm countertop provides a bulkier look in the kitchen.
Meanwhile, the 2cm countertop will provide a more minimalistic look to your kitchen. It will also provide you with more control if you have limited space in the room.
3cm Countertop Offers More Flexibility
A common feature of the two countertops is that their overhangs don’t require wooden support. However, you must note that this applies to a certain extent only. For instance, a 2cm countertop will require support for overhangs of 8 or more inches.
Of course, the 3cm countertop offers more flexibility in this matter because it requires support for overhangs of 16 or more inches. So you can have more control over the look and installation cost by getting the thicker countertop.
2cm Countertop Is Lighter
Of course, the thickness of the material also contributes to the weight of the countertop. This is why the 2cm quartz slab is lighter than the 3cm models. Typically, the overall material weight of the former option is 10 pounds per square foot.
Meanwhile, the average material weight of the 3cm quartz countertop is 15 pounds per square foot. This is why transporting the material to the kitchen may require higher labor. Of course, the installation process of the thicker countertop is easier due to its greater size flexibility.
Availability Of 2cm Quartz Countertops Is Low
Quartz countertops are present in many shops and homes due to their rising popularity. However, you will primarily come across 3cm options instead of the 2cm. This is because most people tend to choose the ultra-thin or the thickest countertops.
So the 2cm quartz countertops are available in limited stocks at most stores. Meanwhile, the 3cm options are readily available in large quantities due to high demand. This is why you should always ask the salesman about the countertop before assuming its size.
Also Read : How To Remove Stains From White Quartz Countertops
When To Choose 2cm Quartz Countertops
There are multiple factors to consider when deciding whether or not to choose 2cm quartz countertops for your kitchen. Here are some questions that you should ask yourself to make an informed decision:
What Will Be The Application Type?
Typically, countertops can be installed vertically and horizontally, depending on your needs. However, you must choose the right countertop for the best application. For instance, you should select the 2cm slab if you are getting a vertical installation.
The 2cm quartz countertops are more prone to damage because of the slimmer profile. This is why they are best suited for vertical installations as it increases the item’s lifespan.
How Much Wear And Tear Will The Countertop Experience?
The 2cm quartz countertops are ideal for sleek and minimalistic looks. However, this also decreases the strength and durability of the item. This is why you must consider the wear and tear your countertop will experience.
For instance, will you be keeping bulky things on the countertop for extended periods? If so, it is better to avoid getting the 2cm type because of the high susceptibility to damage. Besides that, this thickness is also unsuitable if you have kids that like to climb the countertops.
Do You Want Your Kitchen To Be Aesthetic?
If aesthetics is essential to you, you should remember that the 2cm quartz countertop edges have small material strips. They are applied to the item before the profile is cut and make the cut seams visible. This is why you may not prefer the appearance of the countertop.
Of course, many people love the beveled style that the countertop’s edges create. Because of this, you may see this item in the kitchens and baths of many homes. However, the countertop is preferable for fireplaces, backsplashes, and wall tiles instead of kitchens.
When To Choose 3cm Quartz Countertops
The 3cm quartz countertops are more prevalent because of high demand. There are various factors that will help you choose this item for your needs. Here are some questions that you can ask yourself to make an informed decision about this countertop:
Do You Require Horizontal Or Vertical Placement?
The 3cm quartz countertops are more suitable for horizontal placements because of the thicker and heavier profile. For instance, you can use it for kitchen countertops, tables, bar tops, and much more. The high durability of the item is what makes it best-suited for home-usage.
Besides that, the 3cm countertop is also easier to install because it is less prone to damage. So technicians can easily make cuts without affecting the structure of the slab during application. Meanwhile, the 2cm countertop is better for vertical positions.
Will The Countertop Experience High Wear And Tear?
Typically, kitchen countertops of natural stones and marbles have to be taken care of. They are delicate and cannot withstand high weights without suffering from damage. Of course, the right thickness can improve the lifespan of the slab by increasing the weight capacity.
If your kitchen countertop experiences high wear and tear, you should opt for the 3cm quartz countertop. The bulky material ensures you can keep heavy items on the platform without issues. Besides that, the slab will experience less wear and tear because of kids.
Do You Want The Kitchen To Have A Fine Look?
The best part about a 3cm quartz countertop is that it is bulkier and offers a better finishing. Besides that, high market availability also provides more design flexibility. So you can quickly get the correct item that will complement your property’s interior.
Another thing to remember is that the countertop does not have strips near the edges. This is why you will get a cleaner look by installing the 3cm quartz countertop. So this is also a better option if you want the aesthetics to be neater.
The Cost Difference Between 2cm Vs. 3cm Quartz Countertops
Typically, the overall cost of the countertops depends on the size, design, and installation factors. However, you can always expect the 2cm slab to be less expensive than the 3cm one. This is because the countertop is thinner and does not require high material for construction.
Of course, you should also remember that the overall expense of installing both countertops is more or less the same. Typically, the installation cost of the 2cm slab will be higher. This is because more care and support are required to apply a thin countertop.
Meanwhile, the 3cm countertop is easy to install due to fewer handling precautions and support. So you will have to pay the technicians less for putting the countertop in your kitchen. Because of these reasons, the total cost of buying and installing the items balance each other.
Average Installation Cost Of Quartz Countertops
You should expect to pay at least $75 per square foot for getting a new quartz countertop installed on your property. Most homeowners pay contractors $65 to $85 per square foot. This figure also includes the inspection and delivery costs.
Besides that, the removal of old countertops is also included in the installation price by most contractors. Of course, you should still clarify this with the service provider to avoid last-minute surprises.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Quartz Countertops
Here are the top things that affect the price of your 2cm vs. 3cm quartz countertops:
Quartz Grading
This is an essential factor that determines the price of the countertop. Typically, the first quality material with rich color and consistency costs around $80 to $105. Meanwhile, the standard quartz with medium pigmentation is around $70 $95.
The last grading is the second quality which is nothing more than just a plain-looking slab. Its price ranges from $55 to $75. You should also remember that the grading does not impact the durability or strength. Instead, it only affects the countertop’s design and appearance.
Slab Thickness
As mentioned earlier, the 2cm countertop is thicker and heavier than the 3cm slabs. This is why the former is less expensive because of lower material requirements. They also don’t need high space for storage or transportation.
Meanwhile, the 3cm countertops are heavier and require sufficient space for storage. The transportation cost of these slabs is also higher. So the general rule of thumb is that the thicker the countertop, the greater its price.
Living Costs
This is another factor that affects the installation cost of the quartz countertops. If you live in a rural region, you can expect to pay less for the application of a slab. Meanwhile, prices are highest in the east/west and metropolitan areas.
Lastly, the installation costs are average in all the other areas except for the earlier mentioned ones. You should also note that this factor does not consider the type of slab you are getting installed. Technicians ask a relatively high price for 2cm countertops due to complex applications.
2cm Vs. 3cm Quartz Countertops: Which One Is Better?
There is no fixed winner between the 2cm vs. 3cm quartz countertops. The answer primarily depends on your needs. If you require the slab for vertical applications, you should choose the 2cm option.
Meanwhile, the 3cm quartz countertops are best for horizontal placements in kitchens, bars, and other sites. Besides that, this type is also more durable and will last longer than the other slabs. The best part is that you will not require brackets or high support for 3cm quartz countertops.
Once you consider all these factors, you can choose the best quartz countertop for your needs.
