What You Should Know Before Stacking Granite Slabs For Countertops

Do plain granite countertops feel a bit basic or dated to you? Have you been searching for a way to make a bolder statement with your kitchen design? Thick countertops are the next big kitchen design trend, and they might just be the perfect addition to your space. Granite countertops that are thicker than average can act as a durable, modern, and sleek addition to your kitchen, but unless you're able to find somewhere selling extra-thick slabs, you'll likely have to stack two layers of granite to achieve this look. In an exclusive interview with House Digest, Irakli Khizanishvili, CEO and owner of Proslit Tile & Stone, shared his advice on when to choose stacked countertops, what aesthetics they pair best with, and what you should consider about your home's existing design before installation.

"Stacking granite slabs can be a great option for creating a dramatic design statement, especially in high-end kitchens or commercial spaces," Khizanishvili said. "However, it may not be ideal for homeowners on a budget or for spaces with weight restrictions. Proper structural support and expert fabrication are essential for a seamless and durable installation." Considering these factors before you decide to take the plunge can help to ensure you don't run into any issues or surprises down the line, something that's incredibly important if you're trying to plan a kitchen renovation budget to maximize your investment and create a finished product that you'll love for years to come.

Before you start thinking about how stacked countertops will fit into your renovation budget or work with your existing cabinetry, it's important to consider if they'll even align with your dream kitchen's look. "Consider the overall design style — stacked granite looks best in luxurious, modern, or contemporary settings," Khizanishvili said in his exclusive interview with House Digest. A thick, squared-off slab of granite might be just the accent you need in a sleek, minimalistic design, but it could feel out of place if you're leaning more toward cottagecore decor or want to create a warm and inviting rustic kitchen.

If you decide that the stacked look might be for you, you can customize it in plenty of ways. According to Khizanishvili, one of the major pros of stacked countertops is that they add extra height to your space. This can be helpful if you find that your countertops sit slightly too low for comfort, but it also opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to choosing a countertop edge style. "[A stacked granite countertop] allows for unique edge profiles and design customization," he said. Because you have more stone to work with, you can try out more intricate edge styles like a waterfall, cove ogee, or Dupont. Keep in mind, however, that these complex designs could tack on additional costs to your budget.

Now that you've decided stacked granite countertops are a good fit for your style, there's one major factor you have to consider: weight. "Ensure the base cabinetry and flooring can support the additional weight," Khizanishvili said in his exclusive interview with House Digest. Double-layered counters mean double the weight, and flimsy or unsupported cabinetry might not be able to handle it. Because you're dealing with two stacked pieces of stone, it's also important to make sure that you're working with an experienced fabricator and contractor to make sure everything is properly cut and aligned.

Once the counters are in your home and installed, it's your responsibility to make sure they last. Luckily, stacked granite doesn't require much more maintenance than regular granite surfaces. "Clean with a pH-neutral stone cleaner to prevent damage," Khizanishvili said. "Regularly seal the stone to protect against stains." It is smart, however, to routinely check the seams along the sides of your counters so you can catch any potential damage or shifting early. If your stacked counters were installed properly, this shouldn't be an issue, but an occasional inspection can go a long way in helping to keep your countertops in good shape for years to come.