Do 2cm Countertops Vs.
The thickness you choose to use for your countertop plays more roles than just a skin deep design; it directly correlates durability, installation, and money from your wallet. Types of stone countertops, quartz and granite especially, have two standard thicknesses — 2cm (¾ inch) and 3cm (1¼ inch). Both have their benefits and ideal uses. Here are some of the use cases where you might want to choose one over the other.
Appearance / design (ease of appearance, options)
The 3cm, or thicker countertops, give a solid and almost hefty look and are often seen as something more luxurious looking for higher-end kitchens. The increased thickness adds more to the countertop presence allowing the part to stand out in any kitchen or bathroom. While 2 cm countertops look neater and more contemporary. They are especially prevalent in modern design, with slim profiles that appeal for their sleek lines and simplicity.
Requirements for Installation and Support
In terms of installation, 2cm countertops are most often considered to be lighter and easier to handle and install. The downside is they typically need to be supplemented with plywood underlayment or additional bracing, due to the fact that dishwashers and large sinks are often left unsupported. This can increase complexity and add cost to installation.
Where as the 3cm countertops are thicker and heavier they typically do not need additional support. Their thicker gauge results in a higher inherent strength allowing them to span larger distances without additional reinforcement. This is in a bid to streamline the process of deploying its tech, and minimise potential hidden charges due to more support materials.
Toughness & Resilience
Especially when being included in places that are used as worktops, notably kitchens. Countertops in 3cm are naturally more robust as a result of its thickness. It has far less chance of breaking while being transported and installed and is more resistant to chipping or cracking as time passes.
Though 2cm countertops will provide significant durability, they are inherently more vulnerable to edge chipping and may not withstand heavy impact as effectively as their thicker counterparts. If you use your kitchen heavily, or just want the most durable option for any space that will be getting a lot of abuse (i.e. a vacation rental), I suggest going with 3cm
Cost Considerations
You may find a significant cost difference between 2cm or 3cm countertop options. 3cm countertops are generally more expensive because of the additional material needed. Even though the total installation for many of them can come in comparably to or even less than a 2cm countertop when figuring support requirements after the fact since they will not need additional supports.
Local availability and tastes
It is important to bear in mind that there are different thickness preferences in countertops depending on the area. Of course, in Europe, thinner countertops are more common, whileU.S. homeowners have moved to 3cm thickness because greater weight makes them feel better quality and they convey a luxury aesthetic—as you would expect from the land of SUVs!
Making the Right Choice
The bottom line is picking between a 2cm and a 3cm countertop relies on your wants, style likes of interest and you spending plan just as utilization of the kitchen. For those who prefer a more modern look and are willing to tackle the small issues at installation, 2cm may be just right. That being said, 3cm countertops often provide greater durability, are easier to install and make a statement with their massive presence.
When deciding between the two, ask yourself how each fits into your kitchen design as a whole, is one likely to hold up better than the other depending on your lifestyle with them and can you even afford either?