Kitchen Countertop Edges & Care Tips

Edging adds a wonderful dimension to stone tops and amplifies their natural beauty. Depending upon which edge profile is selected, there may be an additional cost incurred. We include 2cm standard edges in all estimates. In addition to the edge details showcased above, we can do custom one-of-a-kind edge profiles upon request. Speak to one of our representatives about this information.

How are the edges of the granite finished?

Using the specific diamond router bit, the edges are cut. The edges are then polished using eight different diamond polishing discs. A variety of edge treatments are available, including Straight, Bullnose, Half-Bullnose, Demi are just to name a few.Granite Edge Types
After selecting the color of your granite counter, another factor that you have to decide on is your counter top’s edge profile. Simply put, the edge profile is the shape the edge takes. It is available in many shapes depending on cost and function. It may be in the form of rounded, semi-circle, square, to name a few. Custom edges are also available in selected fabricators and suppliers, just don’t forget to ask them if you have a distinctive design in mind.
Aside from the aesthetic value it adds to your kitchen, the purpose of a smoothed rounded edge is to prevent granite from chipping off easily, thus adding to the years your counter top will last. Although natural stone is characterized by its durability, unpolished edges lead to long term problems because the stone can crack at inside corners. In terms of maintenance, they are also easier to maintain
Countertops need a rounded over edge to maximize the thickness of the material. The typical thickness for a rounded profile is ¼ inch thick. The required thickness for granite counter tops is at 1-1/2” inches for a rounded profile edge of 1/8 inch.

There are three general classifications for counter top edge profiles: the straight edge, the curved edge and the fancy edge.
Straight edge is the simplest of all profiles wherein the tip of your counter top material follows a simple straight cut.
Curved profiles on the other hand are rounded and may either be basic or fancy. This is an excellent choice for households with children since they lessen the need to worry about getting heads bumped on corners of your counter top. It softens the feel of the room and suits both classic and contemporary kitchen design styles.
Fancy edge is the most intricate and unique of all. It requires skilled workers and years of expertise in handling granite for precise cutting. Generally more expensive than the straight edge and the curved edge, they are more of an investment for the value and character added to your home. These edges have the tendency to be overwhelming if overused. It is best paired with simple cabinetry, creating a perfect design detail for your kitchen. This is a wise choice if you want to create a statement with your countertop.
Below is a list of common edge profiles for your granite counter top:
Eased Edge . Also known as the flat edge or straight edge, this is characterized by a basic square profile showing the full thickness of the stone.

It is also the most cost efficient of all making it the most popular choice for people who remodel and design their kitchens. It is clean, streamlined and matches any design style and concept. The corners are also slightly rounded, softened at a 3-centimeter space, to avoid damage to the material.
Pencil Edge.The pencil edge profile as its name suggests, is cut to shape like a pencil. It has a slightly angular edge that rounds into the vertical surface of the stone. It has a softer design than the eased or flat edge because of the rounded square design. It works best with contemporary style spaces.
Bullnose Edge . Completely rounded with both edges curved, the bullnose edge softens the feel of any space. It is half-circle in shape which makes it an appropriate choice for households which are concerned with safe. However, they are less recommended for areas which easily get wet because spilled liquid tends to fall down the cabinets. Ideal application for this edge profile if for island counter tops in the kitchen. Its design is also flexible since it suits both the classic and modern kitchen styles.
Hall Bullnose . As the name suggests, it has a round smooth profile with a flat bottom edge. The rounded off edge adds curve and also suits both the classic and modern style.
Chiseled Edge .The chiseled edge is the most natural looking of all edge profiles. Characterized by a lightly smoothed finish, it looks like a naturally broken piece of stone. The rough edge makes it fit for rustic style kitchens.
Granite Waterfall .The granite waterfall is one of the current design trends in kitchens today. The whole sides of the counter continuously fall of the edge, top to side, following the height of the counter. It is dubbed the “waterfall” because it perfectly ends and flows to the floor creating a whole uniform surface. Paired with streamlined modern cabinets, it offers a clean and sleek statement.
Dupont Edge . Considered a premium edge shape that is a variation from the curved Ogee edge design. Rather than a curved edge the Dupont edge starts off with a short 90 degree angle that then flows down into a curved angle.
Ogee Edge .The ogee edge is an edge profile wherein the design has 2 sweeping arches: a concave arch that flows into a convex arch. When viewed from the side, it forms an “S” shape. Because of its dramatic outline, it is considered a premium cut and is more expensive.
Bevel Edge . The bevel profile is an edge that has a 45-degree angle, which may be on top or bottom of the counter top edge. The deeper the angle is cut, the wider the surface of the material looks. It is a classic edge treatment that is not only aesthetically pleasing but is functional as well because it is easier to clean. It requires the countertop material to be at least 1 to 1 ½ inches thick. It has a classic luxurious look and works best with classic themed or country themed kitchens.
Other types of edge profiles which aren’t discussed above are variations of the basic types.

Natural Stone Care Do’s & Do not’s
Do use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices.
Do use mats under hot dishes or cookware.
Do use place mats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that may scratch your stone’s surface.
Do place a small rug or mat at entryways to trap dirt and sand from normal foot traffic.
Do dust countertops, islands, vanities and floors frequently.
Do blot up spills immediately to minimize permanent damage to the stone.
Do clean surfaces by wiping with clean water or spraying with StoneTech Professional Revitalizer cleaner, then wiping dry with a clean cloth.
Do not use vinegar, bleach, ammonia or other general-purpose cleaners.
Do not use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners.
Do not use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
Do not use alkaline cleaners, not specifically formulated for natural stone