Edge Profile For Your New Stone Countertop
When purchasing a new stone countertop, you’ll not only need to decide on the stone type, color, and layout, you’ll also be asked to choose the type of edge profile. There are several different stone edges to choose from. Like anything, there are pros and cons to each. The most common types of edges are called:
- eased or pencil edge
- half bullnose
- full bullnose
- beveled
- ogee
Your stone fabricator can provide you with information that will assist your decision on the type of edge profile that matches the look and feel that you want with your project, as well as an edge that will fit in your budget.
The Pencil Edge Countertop
The eased edge is the most popular and commonly used stone edge, as it is simple and not completely rounded, but is rounded just enough to take the sharp edge off the 90 degree stone. The eased edge gives the stone the thickest look, since most of the stone is exposed. It is simply a 1/8” radius taken off the sharp edge of the stone. The only downside to this type of edge is that because it is a 90-degree angle, it can be blunt. The eased edge is usually the least expensive edge, since expensive equipment is typically not needed to manufacture this type of edge. Further, for some types of stone this may be the only edge available. For example, some marbles with a lot of crystals are difficult to fabricate fancy edge designs because the crystals in the stone may pop out along the edges.
The Beveled Edge Countertop
The beveled edge with an angled look and feel is considered a more contemporary look. The bevel sizes can be customized and the most popular are the 0.25” and the 0.375” bevels. The straight lines of the bevel can add an elegant look to any kitchen style. For this edge type, there may be a nominal upcharge because special equipment is required to form this type of edge.
The Half Bullnose Edge
The half bullnose edge is another popular stone edge type and gives a room a softer and curvier look and feel. The top edge is a lot more rounded than the eased edge, but the bottom side of the stone is still at 90 degrees, hence the term “half”. It is a safer option when compared to the eased and bevel edges, as the corner is softened. For this edge type there may be an upcharge because special equipment is required to form this type of edge.
The Full Bullnose
The full bullnose is a complete rounded edge that will enhance any countertop. The bullnose edge is another popular edge profile that complements all design styles and looks great in any room. If there are any young children in the house, the full bullnose edge is the perfect choice because it doesn’t have any sharp corners at all, so from a safety standpoint, it is the best. For this edge type there may be an upcharge because special equipment is required to form this type of edge.
The Ogee Edge
The Ogee edge has a classic, decorative look, and it has a groove on a rounded bottom with the signature “S” shape result from the two curves and concave radius of the ogee edge. The ogee edge will give the countertop a sophisticated look and is the most expensive type of edge to put on stone because the router bit that is required to manufacture this profile is expensive and the process is quite time consuming. Furthermore, the ogee edge cannot be made on all stone types, especially marbles with a lot of crystal because the crystals may pop out during the fabrication process.
In conclusion, there are a variety of different edge profiles for your new stone and your fabricator can explain to you the benefits of each type. All of the edges will look great on stone, and the selection is typically according to personal preference.
Ready to get your project started? Academy Marble is a direct importer, fabricator and installer of natural and engineered stone countertops. Contact Us today for a tour, quote or consult.
