This past week I watched the backsplash and countertops get installed at our 7th Street project. I've also been noticing more discussion around the thickness of countertops. Now I don't know if my phone was listening to me talking about our own projects or not, but I'm left with countertops on the brain. So today we are going to talk about the differences between 3cm countertops vs. 2cm. And if you're wondering what the 3 and 2 are referring to, it's the thickness of the countertop. Now let's dive in.
The Standard
3cm is the standard thickness for countertops, meaning it's the most used. 2cm (most of the time) comes into play when it comes to backsplashes, because it's thinner. 3cm is used most often because it's thicker and is perceived as more durable. You can also have more fun with different edge profiles because of it's thickness.
Pricing
Generally, 3cm is going to be more expensive because it's heavier. However, not every cabinet or situation is made for the thinner 2cm countertops. You may have to add decking or some kind of reinforcement to make up the lack of thickness from the 2cm top. If you do need this, it will add to the cost. So be sure to ask your contractor first before picking out a 2cm countertop.
Choosing the Right One for You
Choosing the best on for you totally depends on your situation. If you use your countertops a lot and feel you need a max strength - 3cm. If you want a specific type of edge profile - 3cm. If you're on a tighter budget - 2cm. If you want the backsplash to match the countertop - 3cm & 2cm.
Don't hesitate to ask your fabricator as well along with your contractor. They should be able to help you make this decision if you are unsure.
Examples:
3cm Countertop with 2cm Backsplash
Our client wanted the backsplash to match the countertops so Top It (the slab yard) recommended we go with 3cm for the countertop to get the max strength and durability. Then to save on costs, but also not have too much thickness on the backsplash we went with 2cm.
3cm Countertop and Backsplash
We used what our lumber yard calls "remnants" on this dresser we converted into a vanity. This leftover countertop only came in a 3cm. It worked out perfect in this situation because it matched the mirror thickness that we knew would rest along it. So we used the 3cm for both the countertop and the backsplash.
This also allowed for the Ogee profile along the edge of the countertop.
2cm with Mitered Edge
We knew we wanted backsplash in this laundry room and the apron front sink in the same material. So Top It (again our slab yard) recommended we go with a 2cm slab everywhere and miter the edges so it wold appear thicker.
This helped cut down on thickness where the apron front came down and helped cut down on cost as well.
What it Comes Down To
What I believe it comes down to when trying to decide which thickness is right for you is thinking about the function of the countertop. If you plan to have heavy stuff on it and have a lot of traffic, then 3cm is your answer.
If you want a really cool mitered floating vanity if your powder bath, or something similar to what we did in this laundry room, then 2cm is probably your answer.
Just don't forget, if you feel overwhelmed about making the choice ask your slab yard/fabricator or your contractor for advice.
Do you feel like the article helped you decide? Let me know if the comments and thanks for reading!
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