20

Dec

What Are The Best Quartz Countertops Edge Profiles?

Selecting countertop materials can be hard, but the edges are also really crucial to think about. Here are some amazing edge options that will look spectacular on quartz countertops.

Pencil Edge Profile

A pencil edge profile is also called a straight edge and it’s one of the most common edges in quartz countertops. They’re simple, they look clean and minimal and if you’re not sure about a certain style of edge, then this one is a go-to for a lot of people.

It is just like it sounds. A pencil edge is pointed from the top and bottom and the side profile of it looks literally like a slab. This is a wonderful edge design to go for if you’re looking for something minimal and effortless. It’s going to give your countertop or island that element of crisp simplicity.

Eased Edge Profile

This is also like a straight or pencil edged profile, but it’s softened just a touch. The side profile of this edge looks rounded from both of the edges and it’s a lot more subtle than a very obvious pencil edge. This is great if you have kids who bump into things a lot and pencil edges can be quite dangerous because the edges of the countertops are sharp and pointy.

Moreover, eased edges are shaved down to look rounded so they are not only less dangerous than their pointy counterparts, but they can also reduce the chances of breaking and chipping upon impact, so that’s pretty amazing.

Bullnose Profile

Some might think that bullnose and eased edges are the same, but there is a slight difference that plays an important role. Bullnose edges are also rounded and don’t have any pointed edges protruding outwards, but the overall edge is also rounded unlike eased edges where only the edges are rounded and the extremity of the countertop is straight.

The roundness of the bullnose edge gives the countertops a lot more integrity and it prevents premature chipping and breaking because the shape is a lot more forgiving. You can’t go wrong with a bullnose countertop and with quartz, this edge profile is really easy to fabricate, so you’ll be in for a treat.

The only downside to this edge design is the fact that it doesn’t let things stay on top of the surface like water or other fluids. With straight or eased edges, because of the straight extremity, the water or fluid will stop at the edge, whereas in bullnose edges, the water will slide down the rounded extremity. So that is something that you will need to keep in mind.

Half Bullnose Profile

This edge is a cross between a pencil edge and a bullnose edge. The top of the edge is rounded and soft whereas the bottom of the edge is pointy just like a normal edge. This edge is a bit more classy and intricate if you’re looking for a bit of change from those common edge designs, but still want simplicity and ease to shine through.

This edge design can be easily fabricated on strong and durable quartz countertops and you will fall in love with the results. This edge profile looks specifically good on countertops with a darker color, but the choice is ultimately up to you.

Ogee Profile

This kitchen island edge design has a beautiful flair to it and this might just be your new favorite edge for quartz countertops. The top of the countertop edge is shaved into a “C” shape and it droops down into a half bullnose formation. And at the end, the edge is protruding out like a pointed edge.

So, all in all, this edge is a combination of three unique edge designs, but the result is just as wonderful. It’s elegant and regal and it gives off that luxurious vibe when fabricated on a countertop or island.

Beveled Profile

If you’re looking for angular edges because that’s what you prefer, then you can certainly choose a beveled edge profile. The side of this edge is very futuristic. It starts with a slope that’s about 45 degrees and it goes all the way to the bottom of the edge thickness.

This edge is beautiful and it looks amazing on quartz countertops, but you can get it done on any other countertop material as well and the look will be as lovely as ever. If rounded and pointed edges are not your thing, then you certainly want to give this edge profile a go.

Half Bevel Profile

This is also a cross between the normal bevel and the pointed edge design. This edge design is a lot softer than a normal bevel, but it still has that sharp angular look that people know and love. So, you won’t be missing out on anything.

The top of the edge slopes down at a 45-degree angle, but this time, instead of going all the way to the bottom, the slope stops halfway and then it drops down into a pointed edge formation. This combination looks stunning if you want a more prominent design.

Summit Profile

In looks, this design can be similar to a half bevel, but it’s so much more than that when you do a side-by-side comparison. A summit edge starts with an angular steep at about 45 degrees and it stops at 1/4th of the thickness. After that, the design is straight and it goes all the way down in a pencil edge style. In some cases, at 3/4th of the thickness, the design can change again and mirror the top.

Boulder Edge Profile

This design will be highlighted beautifully if you have thicker countertops, so it will look stunning on a kitchen island. The boulder design is something similar to a rounded edge, but it’s double layers.

The design starts with a “C” shaped curve and then the edge drops down into a rounded bullnose formation, and after that, there’s another more protruding rounded bullnose and this is what gives this edge a wonderful layered effect that is absolutely beautiful.

If you have thicker countertops, then certainly consider this edge profile because you will be wowed. Because of the layering, this design doesn’t look the best on thin countertops though.

Basin Edge Profile

The basin edge profile is a wonderful combination of soft and edgy. The edge of the countertop starts with a dragged “C” shape. The curve is not as pronounced and it looks somewhat straight with a slight curve. As the curve ends, the edge tapers up a bit before descending in a rounded tip and it looks absolutely beautiful on darker colored countertops. You can also go for this design with lighter-colored countertops, but the grooves and intricacies will be prominent in darker colors. You will have to see the pictures for yourself to understand the hype of this design.

Laminated

This rather a protective coat on top of the entire quartz slab to preserve its shine and beauty. This can also add to the shine of your quartz countertop. Moreover, this feature can be used along with any edge profile you want.

Conclusion

If you are considering quartz countertops, then definitely check out these edge designs. They will add a distinct character to your countertops. So, get in touch with quartz countertop contractors Rockville to find out which edge profiles they offer.

05

Dec

How To Choose The Right Thickness For Granite Countertops?

Granite countertops are wonderful for kitchens and why shouldn’t they be? They are popular, beyond beautiful and they last for decades. But when choosing granite countertops, people focus on colors and patterns and ignore thickness which is an important factor influencing the durability of the slab. Here is everything you need to know about the selecting the right granite countertop thickness and why thicker countertops are so great.

The General Thickness Of Countertops

If you have no idea about the thickness of granite countertops, then the most common thickness is in between 1” to 1.75”. It’s the perfect thickness to give off the appeal of the stone and it also keeps the strength in check.

Normally, this thickness is perfect for kitchen countertops if you’re going for slabs. However, in case of tiles, they are commonly a lot thinner than slabs, about half an inch thick, and they can also shatter pretty easily. So, they’re not recommended at all for rough use in the kitchen. Slabs are a better option, but it all depends on personal preference and what you want to install in your kitchen.

Thickness For Kitchen Islands

Now that you have an idea about the general thickness of granite slabs, the next crucial thing to consider is the different countertop ideas. Some people also have kitchen islands in their space and they want to get something that will stand out.

Granite is a majestic material and it doesn’t need a lot to be prominent, but if you choose slightly thicker slabs for the kitchen island, then it’s going to look show-stopping. Kitchen islands are singular structures and they are mostly placed in the center of the kitchen. So, you’re going to need a material that is going to be fit for being the center of attention.

This is why you want to go for thick slabs of granite about 2 to 2.5 inches because that’s going to highlight the island and it’s will transform your overall kitchen into a thing of beauty. Therefore, when choosing slabs for an island, don’t be afraid to go a little thick because everything will balance out perfectly.

Consider Your Budget

The budget is also an important factor to consider when choosing the thickness of granite slabs. It comes as no surprise that granite is an expensive material and if you opt for thicker slabs, then you better believe that the price is also going to increase.

If you want, you can do a bit of research when deciding on the budget for the slabs because you’re going to want to get an estimate of how much the slab is going to cost. If you want to go for a thicker slab, then it’s obvious that you’re going to need a more comfortable budget to afford those heavy and magnificent slabs.

However, if you don’t have a higher budget, then you’re going to have to kiss the thick slabs goodbye and settle for something a bit thinner, so that it can shimmy into your budget bracket. But don’t settle for slabs that are less than 1.25 inches thickness because they may be easier to crack.

Thicker Means Stronger

This is not always true for countertop materials, but for granite, thickness is directly related to strength. Yes, the thicker slabs (1.75 inches or beyond) are going to be a pain to install because they’re understandably heavy, but once you do get them installed, the slabs are going to last for a lot longer, as compared to thin tiles.

Granite is an extremely durable material and it’s also one of the strongest countertop materials on the planet, so if you choose thicker slabs, then you’re going to get mammoth strength and longevity.

If you love the look of thick granite slabs, then you’re in luck because once you get them, they’re not only going to look stunning in the kitchen, but they’re also going to last you for years to come. What’s not to love about them? You are getting timeless and classic beauty and durability all in one go.

Chunky Slabs Are Stylish

There is just something about thick slabs that looks so minimal yet chic at the same time. You can go for thicker slabs if you want that extra element of edge to your kitchen and want to make it alluring for the people who enter your space.

Think about it, dark-colored granite slabs that are super thick resting on the countertop base against a light or neutral kitchen interior. It’s surely going to look stunning and you will have a hard time looking away from this gorgeous beauty. So, if you’re going mainly for the aesthetics of the countertops, then you want to choose thick slabs.

The Color Of Granite

The thickness you want to get for your granite countertops depends on the color you choose as well. There are certain colors of granite in which varying thicknesses are available. The colors in which more variety of thickness is available are usually darker colors like black, gray, dark blue, green, brown, and so on.

You can or cannot get thicker slabs in extremely light-colored granite because that’s hard to fabricate and not a lot of retailers can get it done for you. So, you’re going to have to settle for something dark, but if that’s not what you prefer, then you are probably stuck at a dead end.

More Edge Options

If you want interesting edge designs on your countertops, then this is the time when you want to go for thicker slabs. Since there is a lot of room for improvements and shaving off the material, thicker slabs are generally better to work with when creating edges of all designs and shapes.

You can go for a stair step edge, double bullnose edges, and more intricate designs. These edge designs will look more prominent on thicker granite countertops.

Slabs Vs Tiles

A very crucial comparison that’s important when considering the thickness of granite slabs is the one between slabs and tiles and which one you want to go for. Tiles are going to be a lot thinner and there’s also going to be a recurring problem of seams because the biggest tile that’s available for installation is 1×1 ft.

Slabs, on the other hand, are harder to install because of their sheer size and weight, but they’re a singular unit so seams won’t be an issue. They are considerably thicker than tiles, so they are also going to last longer.

Tiles countertops are rare due to some disadvantages like seams and cracks while slabs are the norm. So, choosing slabs is always the right move.

Go For Stacked Slabs

If you want to elevate the level of style and aesthetics in your kitchen and make your countertops even more mesmerizing, then you need to consider the very trendy stacked design. This idea is exactly what it sounds like. Instead of one slab, you can stack two or more thinner slabs on top of each other. They look amazing if done right. There is something about stacked countertops that just adds a rustic appeal.

Conclusion

Most people forget about countertop thickness or only go with standard thickness. However, if you put some thought into the thickness of granite countertops, it can make your countertops more mesmerizing. Do consult granite installers Potomac to know which granite thickness is right for your kitchen.