Edges
Countertop Edge Profiles: 10 Options Explained
The edge profile is the shape of the front of your countertop. A pencil or eased edge looks clean and modern, bullnose and bevel edges soften the look, an ogee feels traditional, and mitered or waterfall edges make a slab look thicker or wrap down the side. Here are the ten edge profiles we offer.
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How it works
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Step 1: See the profiles
Look at the edge diagrams here and real edges at the showroom.
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Step 2: Match the edge to the stone
Some stones suit simple edges, while others can take more detailed profiles.
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Step 3: Confirm at templating
Your edge, corners and overhang are confirmed during the measuring visit.
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Step 4: Shaped at the shop
Polishers shape and polish the edge you chose before installation.
Which countertop edge should I choose?
Choose the edge that fits your style and how you use the counter. Simple edges suit modern kitchens and are easy to clean, rounded edges are gentle on hips and little hands, and detailed or thick edges add presence to an island. Here are our ten profiles, one sentence each.
Pencil (eased) edge
A nearly square edge with slightly softened corners, clean and modern, and the easiest to keep tidy.
Half bullnose edge
The top corner is rounded while the bottom stays square, a soft look that sheds spills toward the floor instead of the cabinets.
Full bullnose edge
The front is rounded top and bottom into a smooth half circle, the gentlest edge for busy family kitchens.
Demi bullnose edge
A softer, partial curve on the top corner, a middle ground between the eased edge and the half bullnose.
Quarter bevel edge
A small angled cut along the top corner that catches the light, crisp without looking sharp.
Half bevel edge
A larger angled cut that takes up about half the edge, a stronger, more architectural line.
Three quarter bevel edge
A deep angled cut across most of the edge, a bold look for a statement island.
Ogee edge
A classic S shaped curve that feels traditional and works well with raised panel cabinets.
Mitered edge
Two pieces of stone joined at an angle, so the countertop looks much thicker, with the pattern wrapping around the front.
Waterfall edge
The stone turns down the side of an island and runs to the floor, with the veining continuing from the top.
Which edges work best for each material?
Granite and quartzite take almost any profile. Marble and dolomite are softer, so rounded edges resist chips better than sharp corners. Porcelain is thin and often has its pattern on the surface only, so eased and mitered edges are the usual choice. Learn more in our countertop materials comparison.
Where can I see these edges installed?
Our project gallery shows waterfall islands, mitered build ups and simple eased edges in real homes. Your edge is confirmed at templating and shaped during countertop fabrication. When you are ready, request your countertop estimate.
Edge profiles
All 10 edges at a glance
Profile drawings, shown from the side. Ask to see real edge samples at the showroom.
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Pencil (eased) -
Half bullnose -
Full bullnose -
Demi bullnose -
Quarter bevel -
Half bevel -
Three quarter bevel -
Ogee -
Mitered -
Waterfall
Which countertop edge is easiest to keep clean?
Simple profiles are the easiest. A pencil or eased edge and a half bullnose have smooth curves with no grooves, so crumbs and spills wipe straight off. Detailed edges like the ogee have curves where crumbs can collect, which is fine with a quick wipe but worth knowing in a busy kitchen. Mitered edges are flat and simple to clean.
Are rounded edges better for families with kids?
Rounded edges are gentler. A full or half bullnose has no sharp corner along the front, which many parents and grandparents prefer near small children. You can also ask for rounded corners on an island instead of square ones. Rounded profiles also tend to chip less than sharp corners when a pot or chair bumps them.
Does the edge profile change the price?
It can. A simple eased edge takes the least shop time, while detailed or built up profiles like the ogee, a thick mitered edge or a waterfall side take more cutting and polishing. The material matters too, since some stones are harder to shape. Your estimate lists the edge you chose, so you can compare options before deciding.
Nokomis showroom
Pick your edge with your stone
See edges and slabs together at our Nokomis showroom, or request an estimate and we'll help you choose.