How to Choose Between 20 mm and 30 mm Quartz Worktops

Are you paying no attention towards choosing the right quartz slab thickness? If not, start searching for it today. Otherwise, you will regret it later. This choice, especially between 20 mm and 30 mm quartz worktops, is a major decision for any UK homeowner.

Do not underestimate it and think that it is just about a few millimetres. No, it is not! The quartz slabs’ thickness you choose will directly impact the look, feel, cost, and overall practicality of your new kitchen, island, or bathroom. It is one of the first design choices you must make.

This guide simplifies everything. It breaks down all the main differences between 20mm and 30mm thicknesses. In this way, you can make a confident and informed choice for your home. But before that, let’s see the difference between quartz and natural stone worktops. We will share why engineered quartz is better to choose than a vintage stone surface.

Quartz vs. Natural Worktops

When we talk about quartz and natural worktops, they are both popular, trending, and premium options. They both add significant value and style to any kitchen. However, they are fundamentally different materials. Let’s see what’s the major difference between quartz and natural stone worktops before getting indulge into trending worktop designs and styles.

Natural stone, such as granite worktop or marble, is quarried directly from the earth. They come in as large slabs. And, each piece is completely unique with its own distinct veining, colours, and mineral patterns. This individuality is a big appeal for many people. Granite is incredibly hard and heat-resistant, but it is also a porous material. This means it needs sealing annually to prevent stains and bacterial growth. It is also more prone to chipping than quartz.

On the flip side, quartz is an engineered stone. It is a man-made product. It is created from a mix of approximately 90% crushed natural quartz crystals, which are bonded together with resins and pigments. This manufacturing process helps for consistent colours and patterns. The result is a non-porous and highly durable surface that does not require any sealing.

More specifically, it is extremely resistant to stains, scratches, and everyday wear and tear. Plus, the uniform nature of quartz makes it easier to achieve a consistent look across multiple slabs. So, this is a big advantage for large kitchen projects. Rest of all, choice is yours. You can buy and install any type of worktop for your kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces.

In the next section, let’s understand the basics of 20mm quartz thickness and 30mm…

What are 20 mm and 30 mm Worktops?

Let’s begin with the fundamentals. The number refers to the thickness of the stone slab. A 20 mm worktop is 2 centimetres thick, while a 30 mm worktop is 3 centimetres thick. We all know that both thicknesses are incredibly popular in modern kitchen design and worktop industry.

Each has its own distinct characteristics and benefits. You will find that both options are widely available from most quartz manufacturers. They are the two standard choices for kitchen surfaces.

This is because both thicknesses offer excellent durability and a beautiful finish. You just have to decide which one is better for your specific needs. After all, the thickness impacts the feel of the entire kitchen.

Many people do not realise how much a few extra millimetres can change the look of a worktop surface. The quartz countertop thickness can make a big difference to the aesthetic and vibe. It is a subtle detail (often taken non serious) that can define the entire style of your kitchen.

Therefore, you must think carefully about what kind of visual impact you want. A thinner worktop creates a different vibe than a thicker one. You can get a very sleek look with the 20 mm option. However, the 30 mm choice can offer a more robust feel. It is worth thinking about how each thickness will look in your space.

Factors to Consider to Choose 20 mm vs 30 mm Quartz Worktops

Here are a few factors or considerations that will help you decide which thickness is the greater and the best option in your case.

• Cost and Affordability

The cost is always a major factor in any renovation project. The quartz worktop price is directly affected by its thickness. A 30 mm slab requires more raw material to produce. Therefore, it is more expensive than a 20 mm slab of the same colour and brand.

The price difference is significant, especially for a large kitchen. You can save a considerable amount of money by choosing the thinner option. It is a very effective way to stay within your budget. Many homeowners who want a high-end look on a budget will choose the 20 mm. This helps you save money for other parts of the kitchen, like new appliances or cabinetry.

The fabrication and installation costs are also different for both thicknesses. A 20 mm slab is lighter. It is easier to handle during cutting and installation. This can sometimes lead to lower labour costs. On the other hand, a 30 mm slab is heavier and requires more people to lift and install. The extra weight also means your cabinets must be very sturdy.

So, it is always a great idea to get a detailed quote for both options. You can compare the total cost before making a decision. This ensures you are not surprised by any hidden fees. This is a very important step in the planning process. You can trust our fabricators, designers, templators, and installers when it comes to quartz kitchen worktops.

• Appearance and Aesthetics

This is where personal taste comes into play. The thickness of your kitchen worktop completely changes its aesthetic. A 20 mm quartz worktop creates a modern, sleek, and minimalist look. It gives a sense of lightness to the space. It is a very popular choice for contemporary kitchens.

Not only that, a thinner profile is also perfect for small or compact kitchens. It prevents the worktop from looking too bulky. It also makes the space feel larger and works beautifully with handleless cabinets and clean lines. This style feels very cutting-edge. It gives a sophisticated and understated feel to your home.

On the other hand, a 30 mm worktop offers a more traditional, classic, and robust appearance. It gives a sense of solidity and strength. This thickness is a great choice for a traditional shaker-style kitchen or a large farmhouse-style kitchen. It feels more substantial.

Moreover, a thicker worktop is a bold design statement. It is also perfect for a large kitchen island. A thick slab provides a luxurious and grounded feel, which gives a very high-end impression. Both options are beautiful, but they convey different design messages. The choice is yours.

• Structural Integrity and Durability

When we talk about a major selling point for any quartz worktop, durability is the winner. Both 20 mm and 30 mm are incredibly strong. They are highly resistant to scratches and impacts. The truth is, a 20 mm worktop is perfectly durable for everyday use. It will not chip or crack from normal kitchen activities.

The main difference is the overall feeling of solidity. A 30 mm worktop feels much more robust. It gives a feeling of strength and security. It is less prone to damage from a very heavy impact. A heavy pan dropping on the edge of a 20 mm slab could be more likely to cause a chip than on a 30 mm slab.

However, the difference is minimal in most cases. You can use both thicknesses with confidence. The most important thing is the quality of the material itself. A high-quality 20 mm quartz will outperform a low-quality 30 mm quartz.

Plus, proper installation is key to its longevity. A well-supported 20 mm worktop will last just as long as a 30 mm one. A thicker slab is also more forgiving if your cabinets are not perfectly level. It has more mass to distribute the weight. So, while both are durable, the 30 mm has a slight edge in pure strength.

• Edge Profiles and Finishes

The thickness you choose directly impacts the edge profile options. A 30 mm worktop offers a much wider variety of edge profiles. You can have a simple bevel, a half-bullnose, or a full bullnose edge. A 30 mm thickness provides enough material for a skilled fabricator to create complex and beautiful edges.

So, it is clear that these edges can add a touch of elegance, timelessness, and detail to your kitchen. A more elaborate edge profile can also make the worktop feel more luxurious. This is a big advantage for homeowners who want to customise their look.

In contrast, a 20 mm worktop is often limited to a simple, straight, or pencil edge. This is because there is not enough material to create a more rounded or complex profile. However, this is not a bad thing. A straight edge looks incredibly sleek and modern.

It is a very popular choice for contemporary British kitchen designs. It gives a clean and crisp finish. A simple edge is also easier for a fabricator to create. This will also help to lower the cost of the project. So, the decision here comes down to your desired style or design.

• The Weight Factor: Installation and Support

The weight of the slab is a very important consideration when you are choosing between reputable quartz thicknesses. A 30 mm quartz slab is heavier than a 20 mm one. This means it requires a team of installers to lift and position it. You can see it is a difficult job. This extra weight also puts more stress on your kitchen cabinets.

In this case, you have to make sure your cabinets are strong enough to support the weight. They may need additional reinforcement, which is an extra cost to consider. A fabricator will always check your cabinets before installation. A heavier worktop also means a more difficult and expensive delivery.

On the flip side, a 20 mm slab is much lighter. That’s why it is easier to handle and install. This thickness can simplify the other processes. It is also a safer option for older or less robust cabinets. You do not have to worry about adding extra support. After all, this makes the entire process smoother and often quicker.

Hmm…we think this is a very practical advantage. The lighter weight can also make it easier for future changes. If you ever need to remove the worktop, a lighter one is much less of a hassle. It is a practical detail that many people overlook.

• Do The Trend Forecasting

Interior design trends are always evolving when it comes to kitchens and islands. At the moment, there is a strong trend towards minimalist and sleek designs. This is where the 20 mm thickness really shines. The slim profile fits perfectly with clean lines and a contemporary aesthetic.

It is a very fashionable choice that gives a light and airy feel to the kitchen. It is especially popular for modern city apartments and new builds. A thinner worktop is a symbol of modern design. It looks very chic. Many kitchen designers in the UK are favouring the 20 mm option. It is a very current look.

However, the classic and timeless look of a 30 mm worktop never goes out of style. The robust and solid feel is always in demand for traditional homes. It is a great choice for a timeless kitchen that will not date. It is a safe and reliable option.

The choice of thickness is a huge part of the overall design. It is what sets the tone. The different quartz worktop colours can work with both thicknesses. A beautiful white marble look can be stunning in both 20 mm and 30 mm. So, think about what style you want your kitchen to have.

Making the Final Decision: Which One is Right for You?

So, we have seen that the right thickness choice comes down to a few pivotable factors. The most important thing is your budget. If you are on a tight budget, the 20 mm option is a fantastic choice. You get all the durability and beauty of quartz at a lower price point. You can save money for other parts of your kitchen.

The second factor is your personal style. If you want a modern, sleek, and minimalist look, we would say trust you ought to go for the 20 mm. If you prefer a more traditional, classic, and robust feel, the 30 mm is the better option. A professional kitchen designer available at MO’s STONEX and DIY Kitchens Worktop can also help you decide. They can show you how each thickness would look in your space.

Another thing to consider is the size of your kitchen. For a small kitchen, a 20 mm worktop helps the space feel larger and more open. For a large kitchen, a 30 mm worktop can create a powerful statement. Both thicknesses are great choices. There is no right or wrong answer.

To be honest, you just have to weigh the pros and cons. You have to think about what is most important to you: cost, style, or a feeling of solidity. A granite worktop can also come in both thicknesses, so this is a decision you will face with most materials.

A Few Words of Wisdom!

The choice between a 20 mm and 30 mm quartz worktop is a balance of aesthetics, cost, and practicality. A 20 mm worktop offers a modern, budget-friendly option with a sleek finish. A 30 mm worktop provided a more traditional, solid, and luxurious feel. Both are durable and excellent choices for your kitchen. The right one for you depends on your budget and desired style. Both thicknesses will create a beautiful and functional space you will love.

Have a wonderful experience with premium quartz countertops!