A Guide to Five of the Most Popular Countertop Edges
There’s an old adage that states that it’s important to enjoy the little things because one day you’ll realize they were the big things. While it’s unlikely the originator’s intent to have this sentiment apply to home improvement, it certainly can. Take a kitchen remodel, for instance. Depending on the scope of the project, you can literally have hundreds of decisions to make. They can include style of sink, wall color, appliance finish and countertop material, etc. At times, the list can seem never-ending, which puts one at risk for simply making decisions to check them off the list rather than think about the long-term ramifications of them. One kitchen remodeling decision that can easily get overlooked is the countertop edge profile, which is really just designer lingo for the shape of a countertop’s outline. The selection you make dramatically impacts the look of your kitchen. Here’s a guide to some of the most common profiles.
Eased: Square on all four sides, this style is one of the most basic and widely used countertop edges. Its rigid lines work well in modern spaces and also give the illusion of thickness. If you’re not someone who likes to spend a lot of time cleaning your kitchen, you’ll be happy to know that this style is hands down the easiest to clean.
Bullnose: This edge is very versatile and works well with many different countertop materials. Its main identifying characteristic is its rounded edge from top to bottom, giving it a delicate look. It also wins favor with parents who don’t have the concern of children running into sharp edges and hurting themselves.
Bevel: If you’re looking to give you kitchen a contemporary feel, a beveled edge can work well. You can recognize them because their corners appear flattened. This also puts them on the list of the easiest styles to clean, but some homeowner report that the beveled edge also allows spills to quickly spread.
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Ogee: This edge is considered classic and dignified. It has a waterfall like appearance with one dramatic dip, followed by a less gradual one. Because this is one of the more complicated labor-intensive edges to make, it is most often priced higher than more simplistic profiles and provides the thinnest presentation.
Chiseled: If you’re looking for a rough edged countertop that imitates the edging of the stone, as you’d find it within nature, the chiseled edge is your best option. It works well in outdoor kitchens and log homes. While the edges are sealed, some homeowners dislike that clothing can snag on them.