What Is DuPont Edge? Definition & Guide
Quick Definition
A DuPont edge is a countertop edge profile that combines a curved top edge with a squared-off bottom, creating a distinctive step or notch about one-third from the bottom of the edge. Named after the DuPont company (which popularized the profile on Corian solid surface countertops), the DuPont edge adds visual depth and a traditional or transitional aesthetic to granite, quartz, marble, and other stone countertops. It's more decorative than an eased edge but less ornate than a full ogee.
TL;DR
- The DuPont edge has a rounded top section with a squared step near the bottom
- Creates a more decorative look than basic eased or beveled edges
- Popular in traditional and transitional kitchen designs
- Typically adds $15-$25 per linear foot to fabrication costs compared to a basic eased edge
- Can be CNC-machined on most modern fabrication equipment
- Works well on 3cm (1.25") stone; can be done on 2cm with laminated edge
- Named after DuPont's Corian brand, where the profile originated
The DuPont Edge: A Classic Countertop Profile
What the DuPont Edge Looks Like
Imagine the edge of a countertop viewed from the side. The DuPont edge profile has three distinct sections:
- Top curve - The top of the edge rounds gently inward (like a partial bullnose)
- Flat vertical section - Below the curve, a straight vertical surface
- Bottom step - About one-third from the bottom, the edge steps inward (recedes), creating a visible notch or ledge
This step is the DuPont edge's defining feature. It creates a shadow line that adds visual interest and a sense of craftsmanship to the countertop edge.
DuPont Edge vs. Other Common Profiles
| Edge Profile | Description | Fabrication Complexity | Typical Upcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eased/Straight | Simple squared edge with slight rounding | Lowest | None (usually standard) |
| Beveled | Angled cut at the top of the edge | Low | $5-$10/LF |
| Pencil (Half Bullnose) | Small rounded profile on the top edge | Low-Moderate | $8-$15/LF |
| Bullnose (Full) | Fully rounded edge, half-circle profile | Moderate | $10-$20/LF |
| Ogee | S-curve profile with concave and convex sections | Moderate-High | $15-$25/LF |
| DuPont | Rounded top with stepped bottom | Moderate-High | $15-$25/LF |
| Mitered | 45-degree angle to create thick edge appearance | High | $30-$60/LF |
Where the DuPont Edge Works Best
Kitchen styles:
- Traditional kitchens with raised-panel cabinets
- Transitional designs bridging traditional and contemporary
- Formal dining areas and butler's pantries
- High-end residential where edge detail matters
Materials:
- Granite - The DuPont edge is a natural fit for granite's traditional association
- Quartz - Clean, consistent profile on engineered stone
- Marble - Beautiful on marble, though the step can be harder to maintain on soft stone
- Quartzite - Striking on high-end quartzite selections
Less suitable for:
- Ultra-modern, minimalist kitchens (where eased or mitered edges dominate)
- Commercial/high-traffic areas (the step can collect debris)
- Very thin materials (2cm without lamination doesn't provide enough depth for the profile)
Fabrication Considerations
CNC Machining
Modern CNC routers (Park Industries Fastback, Intermac Master, Breton) machine the DuPont edge profile using a sequence of profiling bits. The CNC follows a programmed toolpath that shapes the curve, flat section, and step in a single pass (or multiple passes depending on the equipment and material).
CNC fabrication of a DuPont edge typically adds 3-5 minutes per linear foot compared to an eased edge. For a kitchen with 25-30 linear feet of exposed edge, that's 75-150 minutes of additional machine time.
Hand Finishing
Even with CNC machining, DuPont edges often require hand finishing - especially at inside corners, seam transitions, and sink cutout edges where the CNC toolpath doesn't fully reach. Hand polishing at the step transition is critical for a clean appearance.
Budget 15-30 minutes of hand finishing per DuPont edge kitchen, depending on the material and number of inside corners.
Material Thickness
The DuPont edge requires sufficient material thickness to create a visible step. On 3cm (1.25") material, the profile looks proportionate and well-defined. On 2cm (0.75") material, the step is too shallow to be visually effective - which is why many fabricators recommend a laminated edge (two pieces bonded together) for 2cm slabs when customers want a DuPont profile.
Pricing the DuPont Edge
For fabricators, pricing a DuPont edge involves:
| Cost Factor | Amount |
|---|---|
| CNC tooling wear | $2-$4/LF (specialized profiling bits) |
| Additional machine time | $5-$10/LF (3-5 min/LF at shop rate) |
| Hand finishing labor | $3-$6/LF |
| Total fabrication cost | $10-$20/LF |
| Typical customer charge | $15-$25/LF |
For a kitchen with 30 linear feet of DuPont edge, the customer pays $450-$750 more than a basic eased edge. For the fabricator, the margin on edge upgrades is typically 40-60%, making edge upselling a meaningful revenue add.
Selling the DuPont Edge to Customers
Show, don't tell. Keep edge profile samples in your showroom. When a customer can hold a DuPont edge sample next to an eased edge sample, the difference sells itself.
Frame it as an investment in their kitchen design. A $500-$750 edge upgrade on a $5,000-$8,000 countertop project is a modest percentage that significantly changes the visual character.
Include it in multi-option quotes. When generating quotes in SlabWise, present the same layout with different edge profiles at different price points. Customers frequently choose the mid-range or upper option when presented with clear comparisons.
Common DuPont Edge Mistakes
- Inconsistent step depth - The step should be uniform along the entire edge length. CNC programming must be precise, and transitions at corners need careful hand finishing.
- Poor polish at the step - The inside corner of the step is difficult to polish completely. Rushing this step creates a visible matte line that customers notice.
- Wrong profile on the wrong edge - On a kitchen with mixed edge profiles (DuPont on exposed, eased on wall-side), speed labels must clearly identify which edge gets which treatment.
- Seam misalignment - At seams, the DuPont profile must align perfectly. Even a 1/32" offset at the step is visible and requires correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DuPont edge on a countertop?
A DuPont edge is a decorative profile combining a rounded top section with a squared step near the bottom of the edge, creating visual depth and a traditional look.
How much does a DuPont edge cost?
DuPont edges typically add $15-$25 per linear foot above the base edge price, depending on the material and fabricator.
Is the DuPont edge outdated?
No. While ultra-modern kitchens favor simpler edges, the DuPont remains popular in traditional and transitional designs. Edge profile preferences are cyclical, and the DuPont has maintained consistent demand.
Can a DuPont edge be done on quartz?
Yes. The DuPont edge works well on engineered quartz, producing clean, consistent results. Quartz's uniform density makes it easier to achieve a smooth finish than some natural stones.
Is the DuPont edge the same as an ogee?
No. The ogee has an S-curve (convex curve flowing into a concave curve). The DuPont has a rounded top with a distinct step. They're different profiles with different visual effects.
Does the DuPont edge work on 2cm stone?
A DuPont edge on 2cm stone is too shallow to create a visible step. Fabricators recommend 3cm material or a laminated 2cm edge for the DuPont profile.
How do I clean a DuPont edge?
Clean as you would any countertop edge. The step area may collect dust or debris; wipe it with a damp cloth during regular cleaning.
Can a DuPont edge be done by hand?
Technically yes, but hand fabrication is extremely time-consuming and inconsistent compared to CNC machining. Modern shops almost exclusively use CNC for DuPont edges.
What's the difference between DuPont and duplex edge?
A duplex edge has two parallel rounded edges with a flat section between them. A DuPont has a rounded top with a stepped bottom. They're related but distinct profiles.
How does a DuPont edge affect countertop durability?
The step creates a thinner section at the bottom of the edge, making it slightly more vulnerable to chipping than a full-thickness eased edge. This is rarely a practical concern in residential use.
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Sources
- Natural Stone Institute - Edge profile standards and terminology
- DuPont/Corian - Historical product information
- ISFA - Fabrication technique guides
- Stone World Magazine - Edge profiling technology articles
- NKBA - Kitchen design trend data
- Countertop fabricator forums - Pricing and technique discussions