Basic Edge Profiles
Square
The most simple and clean-lined of edges, square countertops are actually
not perfectly square; most are fabricated with small "kerfs" — grooves that
soften what would otherwise be dangerously sharp corners. This serves a dual
purpose: to prevent nasty accidents and to minimize the chance of chipping and
breakage, especially important when you're using natural stone, quartz stone or
cement.
Why Choose a Square Edge?
A square edge works well with nearly every design style, and is a
particularly good choice when you don't want to draw attention away from other
details, such as a decorative tile backsplash or a dramatic faucet.
Square Edge Variations:
Eased Edge — A square flat face with a slightly rounded top edge.
Square Edge with Waterfall — A square-edge countertop that takes a little
dip before descending over the edge.
Beveled
A traditional edge style that evokes classical stone architecture, a bevel
(sometimes known as a chamfer) is basically a cut made at approximately a
45-degree angle along the top edge of the countertop. There are many variations
on this style, including double bevels (both the top and bottom edges are cut at
an angle), and more elaborate edge treatments that combine bevels with other
shapes. Like the kerfs in a square countertop, beveling softens sharp edges, but
also makes a strong design statement.
Why Choose a Beveled Edge?
A beveled edge transmits tasteful elegance, and until recently was a
reliable indicator that the countertop was hewn from real stone. But recent
advances in laminate technology have made it possible to get a much less
expensive granite "look-alike" countertop with a soft chamfered edge — a far cry
from the telltale "laminate lines" so common in the square Formica tops of a
generation ago.
Beveled Edge Variations:
Extreme Beveled Edge — The top half of the bevel features a very slanted
pitch.
Mitered
A mitered edge is straight and clean-lined much like a square. The
difference is that a mitered countertop is assembled from two pieces to give a
thinner top the look of a much heavier one.
Why Choose a Mitered Edge?
When you want a weighty-looking countertop without the extra heft and
expense, this is the way to go. It's a great option for making the countertop
the focal point of your bathroom, and it works well with both traditional and
modern designs.
Mitered Edge Variation:
Eased and mitered edge — A mitered top with a slightly eased edge and
rounded corners. A small detail that can really change the look of a stone
countertop.
Bullnose
One of the most popular
edge treatments for granite, the bullnose is a
deeply rounded style that creates a warm, soft profile around the entire
countertop. It's also one of the best profile options for showing off the
solidity and thickness of the granite.
Why Choose a Bullnose Edge? Aside from its attractive contemporary look, a
bullnose edge is a wise choice in a bathroom used by young children.
Bullnose Variation:
Demi-bullnose — Combines the curve of the bullnose with some angling at the
base of the countertop.
Half-bullnose — A smooth, round surface that can show a larger
cross-section of the stone.
Premium Edges
In addition to the basic edge profiles and their variations, there are a
seemingly endless parade of special edge upgrades available for both stone and
manmade countertops. Here are just a few:
Ogee: The elegant ogee consists of two gracefully sweeping arches that form
an "S" shaped curve. It's a classic edge treatment that evokes the elegance of
another era.
Waterfall: As its name implies, the waterfall's rounded top “falls” over
the top to the front edge.
DuPont: As regal-looking as its name, this design features a sharp,
straight drop that flows into a bullnose-like curve.
Cove: The cove has a bowl-shaped bevel on the top that creates a grooved
edge.
Quirk: An L-shaped cut in the edge of the countertop that resembles a
step.
Chiseled: Also called Broken Edge or Rock Face, this rustic edge resembles
stone or wood in its natural state. Available in natural stone and quartz
countertops.
