SEems like you got 1 inch (2.54cm) quartzite and not 3cm. Is the 2.5cm a nominal size for 3cm? Seems odd.

If you didn't measure could you tell?

Variation in slab thickness is normal. This isn't a problem for a competent fabricator/installer. You'd never know if I did it.

I've never measured any of the slabs I have bought and had fabricated!

Just went and measured my kitchen counters, three slabs which were sold as 3 cm slabs (Taj Mahal quartzite). I measured in several spots and they were all 1-1/4" or 3.175 cm.

That’s nice and it is well within the tolerance of 1/8 inches. Unfortunately, I spotted differences on either side of the stove which is what promoted me to measure.

@P S, thanks for sharing the photos. They’re really helpful.

You’re not wrong to notice the difference. Most 3 cm quartzite slabs (like Taj Mahal or others) are sold as nominal 3 cm but can vary slightly in thickness. A range of 2.8 to 3.0 cm is pretty typical. That said, your measurements at 2.5 to 2.6 cm are on the thinner side of what we normally see for true 3 cm slabs.

If that thinner section is consistent across large portions of the slab, especially the front edge where you would expect full thickness, it’s worth asking your fabricator whether they sourced a thinner slab or milled it down more than usual. While this can still be within tolerance, it can matter if you’re expecting a more substantial edge or want the slab to match other 3 cm surfaces in the home.

It’s also good to check whether they laminated the edges (built up the edge profile) to give it a thicker appearance, which is sometimes done when the slab is under 3 cm. It’s not necessarily a problem, but if you paid for full 3 cm material, you’re justified in asking questions.

Let us know if you have other photos, especially of the edge detail or any seam areas. That might offer more clues about how it was handled.

Nicholas

Key Construction, LLC

Port Charlotte, FL

@Key Construction, LLC Thank you! This is an eased edge. The entire slab around the U kitchen, including the sink, is at the measurement I showed earlier. There is one seam at the sink. Thanks again!

Seam in the sink area

@Key Construction, LLC what do you think is a reasonable option for everyone involved? Ideally, I would have been informed before the slabs were installed. The main slab is 129 inches long and 40 inches wide. Half of the opposite side is also at the smaller thickness. There are also problems with gaps between the countertop and the cabinets, but they said that can be corrected by installing shims. So, I am not as worried about that.

P S, thanks for the additional info and photos. I agree with you, at the very least, you should’ve been informed ahead of time if the slab was thinner than standard 3 cm. That’s a reasonable expectation.

A few fair options might include:
1. A partial refund or credit from the fabricator or contractor, especially if you were quoted for full 3 cm material and this affects a large portion of the countertop.
2. Written confirmation from the fabricator explaining why this slab came in thinner, whether it was a supplier issue, fabrication choice, or something else. This helps with peace of mind and gives you documentation in case issues arise down the line.
3. Shimming the base cabinets is a valid approach for correcting small height differences, but it’s a workaround. If it’s widespread, they should at least own that it’s corrective, not ideal, and make sure it doesn’t affect how doors or drawers operate.

You’re asking all the right questions and you’re not being unreasonable. Communication up front would have avoided all of this. Hopefully your contractor is willing to meet you in the middle.

Let me know if you’d like help reviewing their response once you talk to them.

-Nicholas
Key Construction, LLC
Port Charlotte, FL

@Key Construction, LLC Thank you for all your input. I cannot tell you how much it means to have a professional opinion, especially when I don’t want to be a difficult customer, yet at the same time I just want what I was promised. What is a reasonable amount for any credit? I don’t know the price difference between 2cm and 3cm for the Florida Wave quartzite. I picked out the slabs from MSI if this information is helpful.

"@Joseph Corlett, LLC - what would you have done in order to "disguise" the variation in thickness of the slab(s)? Maybe that info will help the OP when discussing options with her contractor?"

I would feather in the thick one over a 4' span, then profile and polish the bottom edge. No one will ever know.

P S, you’re very welcome. It sounds like you’re approaching this thoughtfully, which goes a long way. As far as credit, the price difference between 2 cm and 3 cm can vary, but a ballpark of $10 to $20 per square foot is typical depending on the supplier. Since you selected your slabs from MSI, your fabricator may be able to clarify their pricing tier.

Also, Joseph’s suggestion of feathering the edge is a solid approach when done properly, and it can create a seamless look without the need for replacement.

Wishing you all the best as you move forward.

Nicholas
Key Construction, LLC
Port Charlotte, FL