Granite and Marble Thickness: Does It Matter?
When you’re shopping for granite or marble countertops, you’ll probably hear your fabricator ask, “What thickness are you looking for?”
If you’re like most homeowners we meet here at FL Granite & Marble, that question might catch you off guard. After all, you’re focused on picking the right color and pattern why does thickness matter?
The truth is, granite and marble thickness has a big impact on how your countertops look, how they perform, and even how much they cost. As San Jose’s trusted stone installation team, we’re here to help you understand what your options are and which one makes sense for your home.
What Are the Standard Thicknesses for Granite and Marble?
Most natural stone slabs are cut in one of two standard thicknesses:
- 2 centimeters (cm), or about ¾ inch
- 3 centimeters (cm), or about 1¼ inches
Some specialty applications also use thinner or thicker cuts, but in Bay Area kitchens and bathrooms, these are the most common.
You’ll often hear fabricators refer to them in inches as ¾-inch or 1¼-inch.
Why Thickness Matters
At first glance, a few centimeters may not seem like a big deal but here’s why it actually is.
Strength and Durability
Thicker stone is stronger and less prone to cracking, especially around cutouts for sinks or cooktops. That’s why we almost always recommend 3 cm slabs for kitchen countertops, where you need the most strength.
In bathrooms, where countertops see less heavy use, 2 cm slabs are often fine, and they’re sometimes used for wall cladding, backsplashes, or tub surrounds too.
Appearance and Style
Thicker slabs give a more substantial, high-end look. In modern Bay Area homes, clients often choose 3 cm granite or marble with a square edge profile for a clean, contemporary vibe.
If you’re going for a more traditional or delicate look for example, a marble vanity in a historic San Jose Victorian a thinner 2 cm slab might suit the style better.
Installation and Support
Thinner slabs usually need a plywood sub-top or additional support underneath to keep them stable. Thicker slabs can usually be installed directly on top of your cabinets, which can save time and reduce the risk of sagging over time.
Cost
Thinner slabs cost less, sometimes by as much as 20–30% compared to thicker slabs. But keep in mind you may have to pay for extra support materials or a laminated edge (where two pieces are joined to create a thicker-looking front edge), which can offset some of those savings.
When to Choose 2 cm Slabs
There are situations where thinner slabs make perfect sense:
- Bathroom vanities and powder rooms
- Vertical applications, like full-height backsplashes or shower walls
- Decorative fireplace surrounds
- Tight budgets where cost is a bigger concern than long-term strength
When to Choose 3 cm Slabs
For most kitchens we install in San Jose and the surrounding Bay Area, 3 cm slabs are the way to go. They’re stronger, more durable, and look more substantial which is exactly what you want in the busiest room of your home.
3 cm slabs are also ideal for:
- Outdoor kitchens, where durability is critical
- Large islands that need to span wide cabinet bases
- Commercial spaces with heavy daily use
What About Laminated Edges?
If you really want the thick look but only have access to 2 cm slabs, you can opt for a laminated edge. This is where we bond another strip of stone underneath the front edge to give the appearance of a thicker slab.
It’s a good compromise in some situations, but keep in mind that laminated edges can sometimes show seams if not done perfectly which is why it’s important to work with experienced installers like our team.
Our Expert Recommendation
At FL Granite and Marble, we almost always recommend 3 cm slabs for kitchens and 2 cm slabs for bathrooms or decorative features. It’s a formula that balances strength, beauty, and value for most of our Bay Area clients.
That said, every project is different and the best thickness depends on your style, budget, and how you plan to use the space.
Why Choosing the Right Installer Matters
No matter what thickness you choose, how it’s installed is just as important. Thinner slabs in particular need careful support and seam work, and even thicker slabs can crack if not handled correctly.
When you work with our team, we’ll guide you through every step from helping you pick the right slab at the yard to making sure it’s perfectly installed in your home.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re dreaming of dramatic 3 cm marble in your kitchen or a delicate 2 cm granite for your bathroom, FL Granite & Marble is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, visit our showroom in San Jose, or book an in-home estimate. We’d be happy to answer your questions and help you choose the perfect stone in the perfect thickness for your home.
FL Granite & Marble, Your Bay Area Experts in Natural Stone.