An eased edge is a type of edge profile that can be added to a quartz countertop. It softens the corner between the countertop and the edge, creating a smooth, rounded transition. Here is a detailed overview of what an eased edge on a quartz countertop is, its benefits, and things to consider when deciding if it’s right for your kitchen or bath design.
What is a Quartz Countertop?
Before diving into eased edges, it helps to understand what a quartz countertop is. Quartz countertops are engineered stone slabs made from crushed quartz combined with resins and pigments. The result is a durable, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Quartz is one of the most popular countertop materials because of its appearance and performance. The resin allows quartz to mimic the look of natural stone like marble or granite. But unlike natural stone, quartz doesn’t require ongoing sealing and is less prone to etching or staining. This makes it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms that see heavy daily use.
What is an Eased Edge?
An eased edge is a profile that rounds over the corner where the countertop meets the edge. Instead of having a sharp 90-degree angle, an eased edge has a smooth, curved transition. This eliminates the sharp corner and creates a softer, more refined look.
Eased edges are also sometimes called bumped edges, waterfall edges, or rolled edges. But they all refer to the same concept of rounding over the countertop corner. The terms may be used interchangeably by fabricators and designers.
An example of an eased edge profile on a quartz countertop
The radius of the eased edge can vary, from a subtle rounded corner to a more dramatic, heavily curved profile. The size of the ease is usually measured based on the edge thickness. For example, a 1/8″ eased edge has a rounded profile that extends 1/8″ from the corner.
Benefits of an Eased Edge
There are several benefits that make eased edges a popular choice for quartz countertops:
- Softens the look – The curved profile provides a softer, more refined appearance versus a standard 90-degree corner. This can make the countertop feel less boxy and angular.
- Adds interest – The eased edge can add some design flair and visual interest to your countertop. It creates shadows and contours that catch the light.
- Easier on hands and arms – The lack of a sharp corner is easier on your forearms when leaning on the countertop. It reduces contact stress on hands and arms.
- Safer for kids – The smooth profile helps reduce the risk of injuries, bumps, and bruises, especially for small children. There are no sharp corners to run into.
- Easier to clean – With no sharp inside corners, an eased edge can be simpler to clean and keep free of food debris buildup.
Factors to Consider
There are a few things to keep in mind if you are deciding whether to incorporate eased edges into your quartz countertop design:
- Overhang – Eased edges work best on countertops with an overhang or edge profile that extends past the cabinetry. This creates the waterfall look. A standard eased edge won’t have as much impact on a top-mount profile with no overhang.
- Thick edges – The ease can stand out more on thicker countertop edges. For example, easing a 1.5″ edge can create more shadowing and contour differences than easing a 0.75” edge.
- Maintenance – While minor wear and tear over time is normal, take care not to chip or damage an eased edge. The curved profile can be more difficult to repair than a straight edge.
- Cost – Adding an eased edge profile does add some fabrication time and labor costs. Expect to pay 10-15% more compared to a standard straight edge.
- Personal preference – An eased edge has a certain style and look that may or may not suit your kitchen or bath design. Consider your overall decor, look, and feel you want to achieve.
FAQs
Does an eased edge impact durability?
No, easing the edge does not negatively impact the durability or stain resistance of the quartz material itself. It simply alters the edge profile. Quartz remains an incredibly durable countertop material even with an eased edge.
Can you do an eased edge on all sides?
Yes, you can ease all four edges of the countertop if desired. Having eased edges on all sides can provide a very stylish, contemporary look. However, some people opt to only ease the front, customer-facing edge.
What edge thickness should you get?
Edge thickness is a personal preference, but many designers recommend at least a 1.5″ thick edge for quartz. This provides sturdiness and allows you to create more impactful eased edges. Standard thicknesses are 1.5” or 2”.
Do you have to maintain or reseal an eased edge?
No, quartz does not require sealing or ongoing maintenance even with an eased profile. One of the benefits of quartz is that it resists staining and etching without the need for resealing over time.
Can you do eased edges on other materials besides quartz?
Yes, eased edges can also be fabricated for natural stone like granite and marble, solid surface materials like Corian, and even wood countertops. The look can be achieved on any material, but is most common with quartz and granite.
Achieving the Eased Edge Look
Here are some tips for getting the most attractive eased edge countertop design:
- Choose an eased edge with approximately a 1/8” radius for a subtle profile or up to 1/2″ radius for a more dramatic curved look.
- Select a quartz material with attractive veining or patterns to make the edge more striking.
- Look for quartz slabs with lots of variation or movement in the pattern near the edges.
- Opt for a thicker countertop edge like 1 1⁄2” or 2” for bold shadow lines.
- Add LED lighting underneath upper cabinets to accentuate the eased edge details.
- Match the eased edge on other designed elements like furniture curves or arched doorways.
Conclusion
An eased edge can be an elegant design detail to elevate the look of a new or remodeled kitchen or bath. By softening the countertop corners, it creates a transitional profile from the counter to the edge that is both stylish and practical. For homeowners who want to avoid a traditional 90-degree bullnose edge, an eased profile brings added dimension and interest. With proper design considerations and fabrication, it can enhance the custom design for a seamless, upscale look.