Choosing your edge profile is just one of the exciting finishing touches that can take your new stone countertops over the top. But many people find the choice overwhelming amid the flurry of other decisions that need to be made during a renovation. Well, fear not! We have broken it down to the basics so that you can easily select the profile that will compliment your stone the best.
Your edge profile choice, just like your stone selection, will be based on a variety of factors. Your personal taste, your stone, the style of your countertops, and what will flow best with the other elements in your room; just to name a few. If you choose a stone with a lot of movement and color, it may be best to stick with a simple edge profile to avoid visual overload. Then again, an ornate edge can really set off a stone and make it pop. In the same vein, if you choose a classic marble, each edge profile will give it a completely different vibe. At the end of the day—there are no wrong choices. If you go with what you like best you will not be disappointed.
Here are a few tips to help guide your decision:
If you choose a softer stone and it is a high-traffic area, Straight Polish and Double Roundover are reliable choices. Straight Polish is economical and has clean lines complimenting any contemporary design. Double Roundover is chip resistant. These simpler finishes are sleek and crisp, allowing the stone to shine on its own. Whether your style is contemporary or skews more traditional, a simple profile is a timeless choice that will flow with any design.
The ¼ x ¼ Bevel is a more contemporary look that works best in a room with clean lines. The beveled edge means more surface area for the stone to shine.
The 1/2” Round, along with the Bullnose, is a good choice for young families because of the lack of sharp corners. Bullnose is also fairly chip resistant, but some homeowners find that it tends to make their stone appear thinner because the bottom of the stone is ground under. Another complaint people have is that liquids tend to flow down under the stone and onto the cabinets.
Ogee and Cove Dupont both add an elegant touch to the stone and can elevate the design of a room. Many people incorporate these on surfaces they would like to be the focal point in the room such as a kitchen island. The more ornate finishes can also tend to be “crumb catchers,” meaning they require more upkeep than the simpler profiles.
Rockface is a dramatic choice and depending on the stone, this finish can make the room feel earthy and ultra-stylish. It tends to work best in locations such as bar tops and fireplaces. However, it does have some drawbacks. It may snag clothing and because it is rough to the touch, it is not recommended for surfaces with heavy traffic. Although it is a finished surface, because it is uneven it is still prone to chipping. It can also be difficult to clean because of all the facets in the stone.
Additional things to consider:
How are you using the space? If the countertop is going to be a place you do paperwork or know you will be leaning a lot, you may want to consider which edge will be the most comfortable for prolonged periods of time. Most likely, a simple rounded edge will work best.
Don’t over-do it. More ornate edges can put the look of your room over the top, but you cannot go wrong with clean lines. If you are having doubts about the more elaborate choices, it may be best to stick with one of the more understated profiles.
Specialty Choices:
Mitered Edge
If you want to really make your stone stand out, consider a mitered edge. To make a mitered edge our fabricators will cut the edge of the stone at a 45-degree angle and flawlessly attach another piece of stone so that the width of the slab appears much larger. Although it can be tricky getting the stone to line up cohesively, our expert craftsmen are committed to creating this beautiful illusion. A mitered edge adds an opulent feel to the room and makes the most of the stone. No matter what angle your perspective, the stone will make a big impact.
Waterfall
If you are longing for a breathtaking addition to your room, a waterfall edge may be just what you have been searching for. Most commonly seen on kitchen islands, waterfall edges make the most of your choice of stone and instantly become the focal point of the space.