Edges FAQ
Quick Definition
This edges FAQ answers the most common questions from fabricators and homeowners.
The edge profile is the shape applied to the exposed edges of a countertop slab. It's one of the most visible design choices in a kitchen or bathroom - the edge is at eye level and defines the countertop's visual character. Edge profiles range from simple (eased, beveled) to ornate (ogee, dupont), and the choice affects cost, durability, cleaning ease, and overall style. For fabricators, edge work is a significant part of production time and a common source of callbacks when not executed properly.
TL;DR
- Eased edge is the most popular choice in 2025-2026, fitting modern and transitional kitchens
- Edge profiles add $8-$30+ per linear foot to countertop cost depending on complexity
- Simple edges (eased, beveled) are more durable and less prone to chipping
- Complex edges (ogee, dupont) cost more, take longer to fabricate, and chip more easily
- Bullnose remains popular for family kitchens - the rounded profile reduces injury risk
- A typical kitchen has 25-40 linear feet of finished edge
- Edge profile is one of the top 3 design decisions homeowners make after material and color
- CNC routers handle most edge work; hand polishing is still needed for complex profiles
Edge Profile Types
What are the most common edge profiles?
Here are the standard edge profiles offered by most countertop fabricators, ranked by popularity:
| Edge Profile | Description | Cost per Linear Ft | Popularity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eased | Slightly rounded square edge | $8-$12 | Most popular | Modern, contemporary, transitional |
| Beveled | Angled cut on the top edge | $8-$15 | Very popular | Modern, clean lines |
| Half bullnose | Rounded on top, flat on bottom | $10-$18 | Popular | Traditional, family kitchens |
| Full bullnose | Fully rounded half-circle | $12-$20 | Popular | Traditional, kid-friendly |
| Ogee | S-shaped curve with step | $15-$25 | Moderate | Traditional, formal |
| Dupont | Straight edge with curved step | $15-$25 | Moderate | Formal, ornate kitchens |
| Waterfall | Straight drop to the floor | $20-$35 | Growing | Modern, high-end |
| Mitered | Two pieces joined at 45 degrees for thick look | $20-$30 | Growing | Modern, thick-slab appearance |
| Pencil | Very slight rounding | $8-$12 | Moderate | Minimalist, understated |
| Chiseled | Rough, natural-looking edge | $15-$25 | Niche | Rustic, farmhouse |
What does an eased edge look like?
An eased edge is a straight, square-cut edge with the sharp top corner slightly rounded (usually a 1/16" to 1/8" radius). It's the simplest and most popular edge profile because:
- Clean, modern appearance that works with nearly any kitchen style
- Quick to fabricate (lowest production time)
- Durable - no delicate points to chip
- Easy to clean - no grooves or curves that collect debris
- Lowest cost - most fabricators include eased edge in their base price
The slight rounding on the top corner prevents the sharp-glass edge that would exist on a truly square cut. This makes it comfortable to lean against without being noticeably rounded like a bullnose.
What is the difference between bullnose and half bullnose?
Half bullnose (also called demi-bullnose):
- The top edge is rounded into a smooth curve
- The bottom edge remains square/flat
- Profile looks like a quarter of a circle on top
- Slightly more casual than full bullnose
Full bullnose:
- The entire edge is rounded into a half-circle shape
- Both top and bottom edges curve smoothly
- The slab appears to have no hard edges at all
- The roundest, softest-looking option
Both are popular in family kitchens because the rounded profile reduces the chance of bruising or cuts from bumping into the counter edge. Full bullnose is less common in 2025-2026 as kitchen design trends favor cleaner, less rounded profiles.
What is an ogee edge?
An ogee edge has an S-shaped profile - a concave curve on top flowing into a convex curve on the bottom, creating a step-like detail. It's one of the most ornate standard edge profiles and is associated with traditional, formal kitchen designs.
Ogee pros:
- Elegant, classic appearance
- Adds visual detail and dimension to the countertop edge
- Good match for traditional cabinet styles (raised panel, ornate hardware)
Ogee cons:
- More expensive to fabricate ($15-$25/LF)
- The thin points are prone to chipping, especially on marble and softer stones
- The grooves collect dust, crumbs, and moisture - harder to keep clean
- Looks dated in modern or transitional kitchens
- Longer production time than simple profiles
What is a waterfall edge?
A waterfall edge is when the countertop material continues vertically down the side of a cabinet or island to the floor (or partway to the floor). It's not technically an edge "profile" - it's a design element that uses a miter seam to create the appearance of one continuous piece of stone flowing from horizontal to vertical.
Waterfall facts:
- Requires a 5-axis saw or precision miter cutting
- Uses significantly more material (the vertical piece)
- Miter seam quality is critical - the vein pattern should align across the joint
- Cost: $500-$2,000+ per waterfall side depending on height and material
- Most common on kitchen islands as a design feature
Choosing an Edge Profile
How do I choose the right edge for my kitchen?
Match the edge profile to three factors:
1. Kitchen style:
| Kitchen Style | Recommended Edges |
|---|---|
| Modern/contemporary | Eased, beveled, mitered, waterfall |
| Transitional | Eased, beveled, half bullnose, pencil |
| Traditional | Ogee, dupont, full bullnose, half bullnose |
| Farmhouse/rustic | Chiseled, eased, bullnose |
| Minimalist | Eased, pencil, beveled |
2. Material:
- Marble - Stick to simpler profiles (eased, beveled, bullnose). Marble's softness makes ornate edges prone to chipping.
- Granite - Any profile works well. Granite is hard enough for complex edge details.
- Quartz - Any profile works. Engineered quartz machines cleanly for all profiles.
- Quartzite - Simple to moderate profiles. Very hard stone that's tougher to shape into complex curves.
- Porcelain - Simple profiles only (eased, beveled). Porcelain slabs are thin and chip easily on complex edges.
3. Household needs:
- Young children? Bullnose or half bullnose reduces bruise risk
- Heavy cooking? Simple profiles are easier to wipe clean
- Entertaining? The edge is visible - choose something that matches the design statement
Does the edge profile affect countertop cost?
Yes. Edge profile cost adds up quickly because kitchens have a lot of exposed edge. Example for a typical kitchen with 35 linear feet of finished edge:
| Edge Profile | Cost per LF | Total Edge Cost | Above Base Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eased | $8-$12 | $280-$420 | Often included |
| Beveled | $8-$15 | $280-$525 | $0-$200 |
| Half bullnose | $10-$18 | $350-$630 | $70-$210 |
| Full bullnose | $12-$20 | $420-$700 | $140-$280 |
| Ogee | $15-$25 | $525-$875 | $245-$455 |
| Dupont | $15-$25 | $525-$875 | $245-$455 |
| Waterfall (per side) | $500-$2,000 | $500-$2,000 | Add to total |
Many fabricators include an eased or simple beveled edge in their base square-foot price. Upgraded profiles are charged per linear foot on top of the base price.
Is a thicker countertop edge better?
Standard countertop thickness is 3cm (about 1.25 inches). Some homeowners want a thicker look. Options for achieving this:
Mitered edge: Two pieces joined at 45 degrees to create the appearance of a 6cm (2.5") thick slab. Adds $20-$30 per linear foot and requires precise miter cutting.
Laminated edge: An extra strip of stone is bonded to the underside of the edge, creating a 6cm look. Slightly less precise than a miter but less expensive ($15-$25/LF).
Full-thickness slab: Some materials (like butcher block, concrete, or certain granites) are available in thicker slabs. More expensive and heavier - verify cabinet structural capacity.
The thick-edge look is trending in modern and contemporary kitchens, often paired with waterfall edges on islands.
For Fabricators
What equipment is needed for edge profiling?
Edge fabrication equipment ranges from basic to fully automated:
| Equipment | Capability | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hand-held angle grinder + pads | Any profile, skill-dependent | $200-$500 |
| Radial arm polisher | Most profiles, semi-automated | $10,000-$25,000 |
| CNC router with edge bits | Consistent profiles, programmable | Part of CNC system |
| Inline edge polisher | High-volume automated finishing | $40,000-$150,000 |
Most mid-size shops use a combination: CNC router for initial edge shaping and hand tools or radial arm polisher for final finishing. Shops doing 40+ jobs per month benefit from inline automation.
Which edge profiles take the longest to fabricate?
Production time by edge complexity:
| Edge Profile | Fabrication Time per 10 LF | Complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Eased | 10-15 minutes | Low |
| Beveled | 10-15 minutes | Low |
| Pencil | 10-15 minutes | Low |
| Half bullnose | 15-25 minutes | Medium |
| Full bullnose | 20-30 minutes | Medium |
| Ogee | 30-45 minutes | High |
| Dupont | 30-45 minutes | High |
| Mitered | 45-60+ minutes | High |
| Chiseled | 20-40 minutes | Medium (mostly hand work) |
For shops optimizing throughput, encouraging customers toward simpler edge profiles isn't just about cost - it's about production capacity. A shop that averages ogee edges produces fewer jobs per week than one that averages eased edges with the same equipment.
What are the most common edge-related callbacks?
Edge quality is a frequent source of customer complaints. Common callback issues:
- Inconsistent profile - The edge shape varies along the length (common with hand-finished edges)
- Rough spots - Areas where polishing is incomplete, especially near seams and corners
- Chips - Small pieces missing from the edge, often from transport or installation
- Waviness - The edge surface isn't flat/smooth, visible under side lighting
- Profile mismatch - Different profiles at seams where pieces don't perfectly match
Prevention: CNC-machined edges are more consistent than hand-finished edges. Template verification software can flag edge specifications before fabrication, preventing the wrong profile from being cut. And careful transport with edge protection reduces chipping.
Care and Maintenance
How do I care for countertop edges?
Edges receive more contact and abuse than the flat countertop surface. Maintenance tips:
- Clean edges the same way you clean the surface - wipe with appropriate cleaner for the material
- Avoid impacts - Don't let heavy pots or pans hit the edge, especially on ornate profiles
- Edge sealant - Apply sealer to edges when sealing the surface (edges are often more porous due to the polishing process)
- Inspect regularly - Run your hand along edges to check for rough spots or developing chips
Can chipped edges be repaired?
Small chips (under 1/4") can be repaired with color-matched epoxy. The process:
- Clean the chip area thoroughly
- Mix color-matched two-part epoxy
- Fill the chip, slightly overfilling
- Let cure completely
- Sand and polish to match the surrounding edge
Larger chips or damage on complex profiles may require professional repair or partial re-fabrication of the affected piece. Cost: $100-$500 depending on the repair scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most durable countertop edge?
Eased and beveled edges are the most durable because they have no thin points or delicate curves that can chip. The slight rounding on an eased edge is sturdy enough to withstand typical kitchen bumps. Bullnose is also very durable due to the rounded profile distributing impact forces.
Can I change my countertop edge after installation?
Technically possible but not practical. Changing an edge profile after installation requires removing the countertops, re-machining the edges, re-polishing, and reinstalling - essentially a partial remake. It's much simpler and cheaper to choose the right edge before fabrication.
Which edge is best for quartz countertops?
Quartz machines well into any edge profile, so the choice is purely aesthetic. Eased and beveled edges remain the most popular for quartz because they complement the material's uniform, modern appearance. Bullnose works well for family kitchens. Mitered edges on quartz islands are increasingly popular for a thick, contemporary look.
Are ornate edges going out of style?
Ogee and dupont edges peaked in popularity in the early 2000s and have steadily declined as kitchen design moved toward cleaner lines. They're still appropriate in traditional or formal kitchens with raised-panel cabinets and ornate hardware, but they represent a smaller share of new installations each year. If you're designing for resale value, simpler edges have broader appeal.
How much does a waterfall edge cost?
A waterfall edge typically adds $500-$2,000 per side, depending on the material and the height of the vertical drop. This includes the additional material for the vertical piece, the miter cutting and joining, and installation. A kitchen island with waterfall edges on both ends can add $1,000-$4,000 to the countertop project.
What edge should I use with marble?
Eased, beveled, or half bullnose. Marble's softness (3-4 Mohs hardness) makes it vulnerable to chipping on ornate edges. The thin points on ogee or dupont profiles are particularly fragile in marble. If you want something beyond basic on marble, a half bullnose or gentle pencil edge adds design interest without creating weak points.
Can I mix edge profiles in the same kitchen?
Yes, though it's uncommon. Some designs use a thicker mitered or waterfall edge on the island and a simpler eased edge on the perimeter counters. This creates visual hierarchy - the island is the design focal point with a more dramatic edge, while perimeter counters remain clean and functional. Discuss mixed-edge designs with your fabricator during the planning stage.
Does edge profile affect how easy the counter is to clean?
Yes. Simple profiles (eased, beveled, pencil) are the easiest to wipe clean - no grooves or curves where crumbs and dust collect. Ogee and dupont profiles have concave areas that trap debris and require more attentive cleaning. Full bullnose is easy to clean since the smooth curve doesn't have crevices. For kitchens where cleanliness is a priority, stick to simpler profiles.
What is a laminated edge, and is it the same as mitered?
They're similar in appearance but different in construction. A laminated edge bonds a strip of stone to the underside of the countertop to create a thicker look. A mitered edge cuts two pieces at 45 degrees and joins them so the seam is virtually invisible from the front. Mitered edges look cleaner and more refined. Laminated edges are easier and less expensive but have a visible bonding line on the underside.
How long does it take to fabricate edge profiles?
For a standard kitchen with 35 linear feet of edge, fabrication time ranges from about 30 minutes for eased edges to 2+ hours for ornate profiles like ogee. This is production time on the CNC router and polishing equipment - not including setup, cleanup, or finishing touches. Edge work is a significant portion of total fabrication time per job.
Get Your Edge Details Right the First Time
Edge profile errors - wrong profile, inconsistent machining, or chips during production - create costly callbacks and unhappy customers. Template verification catches edge specification errors before fabrication begins.
SlabWise's AI verification system checks that edge profiles match the job specifications, flags potential issues with complex profiles on softer materials, and ensures production feasibility. Combined with AI slab nesting that optimizes piece layout for efficient edge machining, your shop produces more consistent results with less rework.
Start your 14-day free trial and see how verified templates and optimized nesting improve your edge quality and throughput.
Sources
- Natural Stone Institute - Edge profile fabrication standards
- National Kitchen and Bath Association - 2025-2026 Design Trends Report
- Houzz Kitchen Trends Study - Edge profile popularity data
- Stone World Magazine - Edge fabrication techniques and tooling
- ISFA - Countertop quality standards for edge finishing
- Countertop fabrication training programs - Edge profiling best practices
- CNC router manufacturer documentation - Edge tooling specifications
- Industry fabricator surveys - Edge callback and customer satisfaction data (2024-2026)
Internal Links
- Seams FAQ - How edge profiles interact with seam visibility
- Countertop Materials FAQ - Material-specific edge recommendations
- Beveled vs. Eased Edge - Side-by-side comparison
- Bullnose vs. Eased Edge - Side-by-side comparison
- Ogee vs. Bullnose Edge - Side-by-side comparison
- Waterfall Countertops Guide - Full guide to waterfall design
- Equipment FAQ - Edge fabrication equipment details