Solid surface sheets are widely used in various applications such as kitchen countertops, worktops, wall panels, and benchtops in bathrooms and kitchens.
However, different applications require different sheet thicknesses. So, how do you choose the right thickness? This article will quickly guide you through the answers.
Quickly Overview: Applications for Different Solid Surface Sheets Thicknesses
Below is a summary table to help you understand which thickness is suitable for different applications, making it easier to choose the best option.
Solid Surface Thickness & Applications Guide
| Thickness | Primary Applications | Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 mm (¼ inch) | – Vertical surfaces (wall cladding, shower walls, wainscoting) – Decorative panels – Furniture accents | – Lightweight and easy to handle – Cost-effective – Ideal for decorative use | – Not suitable for heavy loads – Requires substrate support for large applications |
| 12 mm (½ inch) | – Countertops (kitchen, bathroom) – Commercial surfaces (desktops, lab counters) – Sinks and vanities | – Balanced strength for durability – Versatile for both horizontal and vertical use – Seamless joints for hygiene and aesthetics | – Needs additional support for large overhangs |
| 19 mm (¾ inch) | – High-traffic countertops (restaurant bars, retail surfaces) – Industrial and laboratory benches – Durable commercial surfaces | – Enhanced durability, impact-resistant – Substantial, premium appearance | – Increased weight complicates installation – Higher material cost |
| 25 mm (1 inch) | – Custom furniture and large tabletops – High-stress applications (workbenches, architectural elements) | – Superior strength, supports heavy use – Luxury, robust aesthetic | – Requires professional installation – Higher material and installation costs |
| Extra-Wide Sheets (Available in certain thicknesses) | – Large countertops and wall panels – Continuous surfaces for seamless design | – Minimizes seams, creating a smooth look – Ideal for large spaces with modern aesthetics | – Special handling required due to size – Additional transportation costs |
2. Solid Surface Sheet Dimension Diagram (Inches and Millimeters)
Here are two diagrams showing standard sheet sizes in both inches and millimeters to help visualize and choose the right size:
Inches: Common sheet sizes include 30″ x 144″ and 60″ x 144″ options, with thicknesses typically available in ¼”, ½”, ¾”, and 1″.
- Millimeters: Common metric sizes include 760 mm x 3660 mm and 1520 mm x 3660 mm, available in 6 mm, 12 mm, 19 mm, and 25 mm thicknesses.
3. Solid Surface Sheets Thicknesses; Applications; Benefits; Limitations
Here’s a detailed guide on Common Solid Surface Thicknesses and Their Applications based on industry standards, particularly focusing on the applications, benefits, and limitations of each thickness.
1. 6 mm (¼ inch) Thickness
- Primary Applications:
- Vertical Surfaces: Ideal for non-structural applications such as wall cladding, shower walls, and wainscoting.
- Decorative Panels: Commonly used where the appearance is prioritized over heavy-duty durability.
- Furniture Accents: Suitable for table inlays or decorative panels that don’t bear heavy weight.
- Benefits:
- Lightweight: Easy to handle and transport, reducing installation labor.
- Cost-Effective: Lower material cost compared to thicker sheets.
- Limitations:
- Not Suitable for Heavy Loads: This thickness is not recommended for countertops or other horizontal surfaces where weight-bearing is essential.
- Installation Requirements: Typically requires substrate support to prevent sagging, especially in larger applications
2. 12 mm (½ inch) Thickness
- Primary Applications:
- Countertops and Work Surfaces: Most popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops, including vanity tops and desktops.
- Commercial Settings: Suitable for workstations, lab countertops, and healthcare settings due to its ease of maintenance.
- Sinks and Basins: Commonly used for integrated solid surface sinks and custom bathroom fixtures.
- Benefits:
- Balanced Strength: Provides a durable, resilient surface while still maintaining a manageable weight.
- Versatile: Can be used for both horizontal and vertical applications, making it a versatile option.
- Seamless Joints: Offers seamless bonding for a sleek look, ideal for areas where hygiene is critical.
- Limitations:
- Support Needed for Large Overhangs: Requires additional support for overhangs exceeding 6 inches to prevent stress fractures
3. 19 mm (¾ inch) Thickness
- Primary Applications:
- Heavy-Duty Countertops: Often selected for high-traffic areas like restaurant bar tops, retail countertops, and hotel receptions.
- Industrial and Laboratory Benches: Preferred for applications where durability is a primary concern, such as laboratories and workshops.
- Durable Commercial Surfaces: Used in areas that require extra impact resistance, such as healthcare and hospitality environments.
- Benefits:
- Enhanced Durability: Thicker material provides greater resistance to impact, scratches, and wear, making it ideal for high-use areas.
- Substantial Appearance: The added thickness provides a more solid, premium look and feel.
- Limitations:
- Increased Weight: Heavier than thinner options, which may complicate handling and installation.
- Higher Cost: This thickness is generally more expensive but compensates with greater durability
4. 25 mm (1 inch) Thickness
- Primary Applications:
- Specialty Projects: Often used in custom furniture design, large tabletops, and high-stress applications where added thickness enhances stability.
- Architectural Elements: Ideal for areas where the solid surface serves as both a functional and structural element, such as workbenches or feature wall installations.
- Benefits:
- Superior Strength: This thick surface can withstand substantial weight and impact, making it ideal for specialized uses.
- Luxury Aesthetic: Offers a unique, robust appearance that can elevate the aesthetic of commercial and residential spaces.
- Limitations:
- Requires Professional Installation: Due to its weight and thickness, this material may require professional handling.
- High Material Cost: The thicker material increases both material and fabrication costs but provides longevity in return
5. Extra-Wide Sheets (Available in Certain Thicknesses)
- Applications:
- Large Countertops and Wall Panels: Extra-wide sheets (such as 60 inches by 144 inches) are ideal for expansive areas in commercial lobbies, kitchen islands, and shower walls.
- Continuous Surfaces in High-Visibility Spaces: Often used where minimal seams are essential for aesthetics, such as in luxury kitchens or commercial spaces.
- Benefits:
- Minimizes Seams: Reduces the number of joints needed, creating a seamless look that is both hygienic and visually appealing.
- Maximizes Design Potential: Wide sheets allow for large, uninterrupted surfaces, which is ideal for contemporary, minimalist designs.
- Limitations:
- Special Handling and Transportation: Requires careful handling due to size, and transportation may incur additional costs
KingKonree – Solid Surface Sheets Manufacturer in China
Kingkonree is the leading solid surface sheet manufacturer in China since 2000, providing high-quality, customizable sheets for a wide range of applications. Contact us to see how we can support your business with premium solid surface sheets and more.
What’s more, for builders and contractors, we provide convenient one-stop services. Leveraging our strong network in China, we can help source smaller items—such as faucets, cabinets, mirrors, shelves, adhesives, and more for your projects—and consolidate them into a single container, saving you time and simplifying logistics.
Contact us to start your best projects today!
