Choosing the right edge profile is one of the most important decisions when installing Craftsman quartz countertops. The edge profile not only affects the aesthetic appeal but also the functionality and durability of the countertop. This comprehensive guide will discuss the pros and cons of the most popular edge profiles for Craftsman quartz to help you determine the best option for your needs.
Overview of Craftsman Quartz Countertops
Before diving into edge profiles, let’s briefly go over what makes Craftsman quartz countertops unique.
Craftsman quartz countertops are engineered stone countertops made from 93% ground quartz crystals combined with 7% resin and pigments. This combination makes Craftsman quartz non-porous, stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and heat-resistant up to 350°F.
Craftsman quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic. The material is more flexible than natural stone, allowing for curved and angled installations. Craftsman offers quartz countertops with consistent coloring and texture throughout, avoiding the variations found in natural stone.
When it comes to durability, Craftsman quartz is one of the best options for busy kitchens. The material is resistant to chips, cracks, and scratches under normal use. However, the edge can be vulnerable if subjected to direct impact. Choosing the right edge profile is important for maximizing durability.
Now let’s look at the most popular edge profiles for Craftsman quartz countertops and weigh their pros and cons.
Straight Edge
The straight edge is the simplest and most common profile for quartz countertops. It provides a clean, modern look.
Pros
- Minimalist appearance suits contemporary kitchens
- Easiest edge to clean
- Least expensive option
Cons
- Sharp corners can be prone to chipping
- Lacks decorative appeal
- Can look boring over time
The straight edge is best for homeowners who want an inexpensive, low-maintenance option. It’s also ideal for contemporary spaces that will appreciate the simple styling. Use a slightly eased or rounded corner to minimize chipping.
Beveled Edge
A beveled edge features a angled slope from the top to bottom of the countertop edge. Beveled edges create visual interest and soften the transition from the countertop to cabinetry.
Pros
- More decorative than straight edge
- Softer, less boxy lines
- Angled edge helps hide crumbs and spills
Cons
- Slightly more expensive to fabricate
- Not as durable as straight edge
- Requires more maintenance to keep clean
Beveled edges work well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens, adding a hint of elegance. Avoid sharp inside corners to limit chipping. A low 1/8″ bevel is best for durability.
Ogee Edge
The ogee edge has an S-shaped curve, concave near the top and convex near the bottom. It’s a popular profile that provides both beauty and functionality.
Pros
- Graceful decorative appeal
- Inside curve helps prevent spills
- Outside curve softens boxy lines
Cons
- More expensive than straight or beveled edges
- Inner curve can collect crumbs and spills
- Not ideal for minimalist settings
Ogee edges are an excellent choice for both rustic and elaborate kitchen designs. They mimic natural stone profiles for an authentic look. Use a shallow ogee to simplify cleaning.
Bullnose Edge
A bullnose edge features a rounded protruding lip that overhangs the face of the countertop. Bullnose edges create a soft, organic shape.
Pros
- Creates a finished, upscale look
- Rounded shape is ergonomic and safe
- Conceals edge seams and imperfections
Cons
- Overhang can break off if impacted
- Not compatible with undermount sinks
- More difficult to keep clean
Bullnose edges work best in upscale transitional and traditional kitchens. Limit the overhang to 1/2″ or less to prevent cracking. Use with drop-in sinks instead of undermount.
Dupont Edge
Named after the famous DuPont building, this edge has a quarter-round profile on top meeting a bevel below. It combines elegance with durability.
Pros
- Distinctive curve is decorative and ergonomic
- Bevel strengthens vulnerable edge corners
- Suits various design styles
Cons
- Slightly more expensive to fabricate
- Inner curve can collect debris over time
With its blend of contours, the Dupont edge profile can enhance both modern and classic kitchen designs. It offers more durability than a simple beveled or quarter-round edge.
Mitered Edge
A mitered edge joins two pieces of quartz at a 45° angle to create a corner, similar to a picture frame. Mitered edges showcase beautiful countertop patterns.
Pros
- Allows continuous pattern around corners
- Seamless look is elegant and custom
- More durable than standard butt seams
Cons
- Much more difficult to fabricate
- Miters can separate over time
- Limited applicability for whole kitchens
Mitered edges are mainly used selectively for islands and accent areas. They deliver a upscale look when well executed. Use strong adhesive and seam reinforcement to prevent separation.
Laminated Edge
A laminated edge uses a separate quartz piece to build up the edge profile. Multiple pieces allow more custom designs.
Pros
- Highly customizable edge treatment
- Can match edge to other materials
- Reinforces edge strength
Cons
- Seams more visible over time
- Very labor intensive to fabricate
- Significantly more expensive
Laminated edges are primarily used for unique designs or thick edges over 2″. The added cost limits full use throughout a kitchen. Make sure seams are expertly finished.
Edge Profile Comparison Chart
Here is a quick overview of the pros, cons, costs, and applications for the quartz countertop edge profiles discussed:
| Profile | Description | Pros | Cons | Cost | Best Application |
|-|-|-|-|-|-|
| Straight | Flat 90° edge | Simple, clean, inexpensive| Prone to chipping, plain | $ | Contemporary, modern |
| Beveled | Angled slope | Decorative, hides crumbs | Less durable, hard to clean | $$ | Traditional, transitional
| Ogee | S-shaped curve | Graceful, prevents spills | Tricky to fabricate, collects debris | $$$ | Rustic, elaborate |
| Bullnose | Rounded protruding lip | Upscale, ergonomic | Overhang susceptible to damage, harder to clean | $$$ | Transitional, traditional |
| Dupont | Curved top, beveled bottom | Distinctive, durable edge | Curve collects debris | $$ | Modern, traditional |
| Mitered | 45° joined corners | Pattern continuity, seamless | Difficult fabrication, prone to separation | $$$$ | Accent areas, islands
| Laminated | Layered edge | Highly customizable | Separation concerns, labor intensive | $$$$ | Unique designs
How to Choose the Best Edge Profile
With all of these options, how do you determine the ideal edge profile for your Craftsman quartz countertop? Here are a few tips:
Consider your design style. Modern and contemporary kitchens tend to look best with straight or beveled edges, while traditional kitchens can handle more ornate ogee or bullnose edges. Think about the overall look you want to achieve.
Take into account ease of cleaning. If you prepare a lot of messy recipes and value easy wipe-downs, avoid inside curves that can collect debris. Angled bevels and straight edges are simpler to keep clean.
Examine your existing features. Look at elements like cabinetry shape and sink type to ensure the edge profile works cohesively. For example, avoid a bullnose with an undermount sink.
Evaluate durability needs. Edge profiles with right-angled interior corners or extended overhangs are more prone to chipping and breaking over time. Opt for simpler profiles like Dupont or eased straight edges in high-traffic areas.
Consider your budget. Intricate profiles like ogee, bullnose, and mitered cost more to fabricate and install. Only splurge on pricier edges where they will stand out most.
View full slabs. Looking at an entire slab can give you a better sense of how dramatic or subtle an edge profile will appear. Balance bold patterns with simpler edges.
Ask about experience. Find out how much experience your fabricator has with the specific edge profile you want. Complex edges require significant expertise to execute well.
Once you select an edge profile for your Craftsman quartz countertops, work closely with an experienced fabricator for proper templating and installation. With the right edge choice executed skillfully, you can enjoy beautiful, durable countertops that will last for decades. Reach out with any other questions!
Frequently Asked Questions about Edge Profiles for Craftsman Quartz Countertops
Can you recommend an edge profile for a modern farmhouse kitchen?
For a modern farmhouse style kitchen, we recommend a standard eased edge, beveled edge, or slight Dupont edge. These softer profiles complement the worn, distressed look often found in modern farmhouse designs. A 1/8” bevel or eased edge provides a bit of definition without appearing overly ornate.
What edge is best for kids and high traffic?
For a high traffic kitchen with kids, we suggest choosing a thicker edge profile for maximum durability. A standard eased edge with a 1/4″ – 1/2″ thickness or subtle bullnose would minimize the likelihood of chips and cracks. Avoid any intricate edges and inside curves to limit debris buildup. A beveled or Dupont edge also works well in family-friendly kitchens.
Can you do a mitered edge with Craftsman quartz?
While challenging, it is possible to do a mitered edge with Craftsman quartz. Mitered edges require extra fabrication time, specialized tools, and an expert installer to execute correctly. We recommend only doing miters selectively for islands, accent wall areas, or anywhere the seam would be prominently displayed. Making an entire countertop mitered edge could increase the likelihood of seam separation or cracking long-term.
What edge is easiest to keep clean?
The easiest quartz countertop edge to keep clean is a standard straight edge or a slightly rounded/eased edge. Both provide a seamless surface without cracks or inside curves for debris buildup. A beveled edge is also simple to wipe down, as angled edges help sweep crumbs downward. More ornate edges like ogee and bullnose require a bit more diligence to maintain over time.
Should I get an undermount sink with a bullnose edge?
We don’t recommend pairing an undermount sink with a bullnose quartz edge. The overhang of a bullnose is not compatible with an undermount sink that gets attached below the countertop surface. The gap left from the bullnose would leave the sink unstable and prone to damage. An apron front, farmhouse, or drop-in sink are better options to complement a bullnose edge.
How thick should I make a quartz straight edge?
For a residential kitchen, we recommend a thickness between 1 1/4” – 1 1/2” for a straight quartz edge. This provides sufficient durability and support without appearing too bulky or industrial. Lighter traffic areas like bathroom vanities may only require a 1” straight edge. Increasing to 2” could be considered for heavy usage zones like a kitchen island. Just keep in mind thicker edges cost more.
What edge works best with Shaker style cabinets?
For Shaker style cabinets, we recommend a standard eased edge, beveled edge, or basic Dupont edge for quartz countertops. These softer yet clean-lined edges complement Shaker cabinets nicely without appearing overly ornate. A low 1/8” bevel or rounded Dupont contour matches the simple styling of Shaker cabinets well. Stay away from bullnose or elaborately curved edges.
Is a laminated edge more durable than other edge options?
Yes, a laminated quartz edge is generally more durable than other edge profiles. By layering two pieces of quartz to “build up” the edge, laminated edges increase thickness and provide reinforcement. The additional fabrication required also allows for very precisely finished seams. Laminated edges are less likely to chip or crack compared to other edges.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect edge profile is an important finishing touch for your Craftsman quartz countertops. Whether your style is sleek contemporary or rustic chic, one of these edge options can enhance both the beauty and functionality of your kitchen or bath design.
Focus on the profile characteristics that matter most to you, such as decorative appeal, easy cleaning, or durability. Measure your space carefully during templating, and work with an experienced fabricator to ensure proper installation.
With the right edge profile, your Craftsman quartz countertops will become a centerpiece of your space for years of enjoyment. Show off your personal style, reduce maintenance hassles, and minimize durability worries with the ideal edge for your needs.