Understanding Your Edging Options When Choosing a Granite Countertop

It’s easy to choose a granite countertops, if you consider color and veining options as well as edging possibilities. There are actually a significant number of edging choices available, and they can affect function, cost and ability to clean. The granite countertop edging is a design element manufacturers choose prior to fabricating the slab. The countertop edges may be simple or complex and feature shapes like a soft curve and a sharp angle. Here are a some of the most common edging options available.

Eased/Standard Edge

The eased, or standard, edge is a common one, offering a simple and clean look for the granite countertop. A slab with an eased edge has a flat, square face with the edge having a slightly rounded surface. This is the edge most commonly seen on backsplashes made of granite. If the edge is very round, it’s called a quarter round edge.

Half Bullnose Edge

The half bullnose edge, also known as a roundover, is a round edge. The edging features a very smooth and round surface, and homeowners often make the choice of a half bullnose edge as it can reveal a beautiful cross-section of the stone. This edge is one of the most affordable granite edging options, and it’s perfect for homeowners with a tight budget.

Demi Bullnose Edge

Though the name implies that this might be half of a bullnose edge, this is not the case. Granite with demi bullnose edge has a very smooth, flowing edge that allows you to see a large cross-section of the granite. The main benefit of a demi bullnose edge over other edges is that it helps the countertop look thicker.

Full Bullnose Edge

For those seeking a contemporary look in the kitchen, the full bullnose edge may be the best option. This edge has a full, gentle curve with no sharp edges, and they shape also keeps the possibility of chipping low. This edge design gives the illusion that the granite is thinner than it actually is, which helps bring out a sleek, contemporary look.

Bevel Edge

A bevel edge has a 45-degree cut in the edge of the stone. The deeper the granite is cut, the wider the face of the edge becomes. A half bevel edge has a wide face, and the quarter bevel edge has a narrow face and is less elaborate than the half bevel.

Ogee Edge

Homeowners often choose an ogee edge for a traditional, luxurious granite look. From the side, this elaborate edge takes on the shape of the letter “S.” The ogee edge is typically one of the most expensive edges from which to choose from.

Dupont Edge

A Dupont edge is similar to a demi bullnose edge, and it’s also known as the “Bird’s Beak” edge. The main difference between this edge and a demi bullnose edge is the notch at the top of the bevel, on the countertop side.

Waterfall Edge

One of the most elaborate edge choices for a granite slab is the waterfall edge. This design is made with a special router bit, or it can be built up by gluing different profiles together. These edges help to make the slab appear thicker than it is. With its elaborate detail, this edge is one of the most beautiful and distinct.

Chiseled Edge

Homeowners desiring a natural or rustic look, the chiseled edge is the right choice. The rough edge has the look of naturally broken granite. The edge may be created by hand or with a pneumatic chiseling machine. Once the edge is made, the fabricator usually smoothes the rough parts out, and then sprays it with clear coat to bring out its shine.

Bookend Edge

Much like the name implies, the shape of the edge mirrors that of a book’s spine, creating a smooth but subtle soft edge from underneath the counter all the way to the top of the counter’s surface.

These are some of the granite edges available as you make your choice of granite countertops. In general, as the edge design becomes more, the fabrication costs go up. Manufacturers will quote the cost of the edge by the linear foot, and it’s added to the total cost of the slab and installation. To find out which edge suits your kitchen’s style, talk to your granite fabricator. You can also request to see edge samples at the supplier’s showroom to get an up-close look at the options before making a selection.