Giving your countertops an edge
Picking the right edge for your countertops is about more than just the looks. There are many practical considerations in selecting an edge for your countertops, like cost, comfort, durability and easy of cleaning.
Eased
The most basic edge. This provides a contemporary crisp look but without any sharp edges. The simplicity of this edge also makes it versatile and suitable for any countertop material They are the lowest cost option. An eased underside edge helps prevent drips from migrating into cabinets or drawers. Because these edges come to fine section they are more prone to damage that other options.
Small Radius
Adding a small radius to the edge of your countertops makes a big visual impact, softening the appearance of the countertop. This is something you can also feel as the edge creates a broader pressure point on your hands and hips as you move around the countertop. Adding even a small radius can also help reduce the chance of something chipping the edge of the countertop.
Small Bevel
Similar to the a small radius, a small bevel edge helps prevent damage to the edge of your countertop. Because it is a flat plane, it helps maintain a sharp look. The two edges of the bevel are better at keeping spills from getting underneath the countertop than the small radius. It is worth nothing that a small bevel has a bigger visual impact than a radius of the same size.
Large Radius
The large radius gives an even softer feel to the edge of the countertop than a small radius. It aslp makes the countertop edge very resistant to chips and damage. On areas with large countertop overhand the large radius can be just enough to prevent harsh head bumps on growing toddlers.
Large Bevel
The large Bevel gives a faceted look, similar to certain cuts of diamond or other precious stones. The big visual impact is one that can be integrated into a large number of looks, but is worth a bit of extra consideration because of the extra visual attention.
Bullnose
This timeless classic is a continuous radius from the top to the bottom of the countertop. The bull nose edge gives a very soft feel and is very easy on hands. Because it coues form a continuous transition its easy for spills to flow around this edge typpe and toward your cabinets. Talk to us about how to integrate this look with minimal chance of un-wanted messes.
Ogee
A decidedly decorative edge, the Ogee commands attention. The bottom of this edge is usually simply eased because of the big visual impact of this multi channeled look. Ogee edges are a look associated with classical stone architecture. Their formation makes them more difficult to clean as surface spills can flow over and spread along the edge of the countertop. Ogee edges also require more work to produce, this is reflected in a higher cost.
Waterfall
With a waterfall edge your countertops continue all the way to the floor. This look is a great way of highlighting the material used in your countertops and makes a bold visual statement. Because of the added work required to implement this look, a waterfall edge costs more than the same area of surface countertop.
Marine
Developed for work surfaces on boats and ships, this raised edge profile helps keep liquids and objects from spilling over the countertop edge. The raised lip also provides an extra hand hold on wavy seas.
Knife
This edge helps give countertops an ultra thin, light look. From certain angles it may even appear as though the countertop is floating just above the cabinets. This thin edge is less comfortable to lean against and is more prone to damage than many of the other options.
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