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If you are planning to install new granite countertops in your home, you may be curious to know the dimensions of a granite slab. While individual slabs are unique and can vary slightly in size, there are standards for slab sizes. The following will give you more information about the size of granite slabs.
How is Granite Made into a Slab?
Granite does not simply come out of the earth in the form of a slab. At the quarries, granite is extracted and separated into large blocks. These blocks are then cut into thin sheets called slabs. After the stone is cut, it is then polished and shipped off to the fabricator. Multiple slabs that are similar will be grouped together, as many jobs will require more than one slab.
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What is the Average Size of a Granite Slab?
Although the size of the slab will likely be altered to create your specific countertop, general sizes for slabs of granite are listed in the table below:
Between 9 to 10 feet long |
Between 5 to 6 feet wide |
As mentioned, these numbers are standard and the ultimate size of your new granite countertop will depend on how large your space is, how many cutouts you need and other factors. In addition, it is rare that a job will be completed with only one slab, so it is likely that you will need multiple for your new countertop. For example, kitchen countertops tend to be large, so you will almost certainly need more than one slab.
In terms of surface area, a typical slab of granite will be 45 square feet, although this is likely to end up being slightly less due to the re-shaping of the stone.
What Happens to the Extra Stone?
When slabs are cut and shaped to fit a particular space, there is the waste produced. However, this waste can serve a valuable purpose. These left-over pieces are referred to as remnants and are sold at a lower cost. Remnants are a great option for smaller structures such as backsplashes, kitchen islands, vanity tops, and more.
How Thick Are Standard Slabs of Granite?
Granite slabs also have a standard thickness. The two standard thicknesses of granite slabs are listed in the table below:
¾ inch thick |
1 ¼ inch thick |
While ¾ inch thick granite countertops are typically seen in bathrooms, you can install them in the kitchen as well.
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How Much Do Standard Granite Slabs Weigh?
The table below lists the standard weights of the two slab options:
¾ inch thick slabs | Under 13 pounds per square foot |
1 ¼ inch thick slabs | About 19 pounds per square foot |
Natural stone countertops, backsplashes and vanity tops are highly sought after because of the beautiful appearance and durability that the surfaces offer. Granite in specific is one of the most popular stones used in home remodeling projects. This guide can provide you with a little bit of insight when it comes to standard sizes of granite slabs. This in turn can help you as you plan for the installation of your new countertop, backsplash, vanity top or other surface.