Worktop edge profiles: Types of countertop edges

Article by: Anna Gibson , Product Manager, EGGER UK & Ireland

Pros:

• The simplicity of the design makes square edged worktops straightforward to install.
• The versatile design makes this edge profile blend seamlessly with a variety of interior styles, but it especially complements contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.
• Unlike more distinctive edges, such as ogee profiles, square edges have a timeless appeal, meaning they won’t become outdated. This is an especially important consideration if you plan on selling your property in the future, or if you’re house flipping.
• This profile offers the largest usable surface area, making it one of the most practical choices.
• Square edged worktops are known for their durability. This is especially the case for EGGER’s selection of worktops as they are crafted from heat- and impact-resistant surfaces, plus they come with a UV lacquer coating which provides a protective layer against spills and moisture.
• Maintaining the look of a square edged worktop profile is easy as there are no intricate nooks and crannies to clean, unlike more intricate profiles. EGGER’s selection of square edged worktops also have stain-resistant properties for even easier cleaning and maintenance.

Cons:

• Without a protective layer, some square edged worktops may be more vulnerable to damage over time. Rest assured, all of EGGER’s square edged worktops come with a protective UV lacquer coating and durable ABS edging for maximum protection.
• With certain materials, water can seep into the seams of a square edged worktop which can eventually lead to deterioration. This shouldn’t be an issue with correctly installed EGGER worktops, as the UV lacquer coating is designed to protect the surface from water and moisture damage. To find out more about protecting your new worktops from water damage, make sure to read our EGGER worktops processing instructions document .

Pros:

• Postformed worktops are sturdy and durable. EGGER’s postformed worktops are especially hard-wearing as they come with a unique high-density protective layer underneath the laminate edge, making them more resistant to damage.

• As there is a laminate layer over the edge, postformed worktops are smooth and safe without any sharp edges. This makes them a good choice for both families with young children and for more compact kitchens where you’re more likely to bump into the counters.

• Like square edged worktops, postformed edges are versatile in design and can complement both traditional and modern kitchens.

• This worktop edge profile is generally a cost-effective option compared to more intricate edge styles, which can be more expensive to make and install.

• The seamless edge wrapping in this design minimises the risk of water seeping into the core material and causing long-lasting damage.

• They are easy to clean and maintain as there are no sharp corners or grooves for dirt and grime to accumulate.

Cons:

• Postformed edges are primarily associated with laminate and are less common in stone or wood worktops. However, at EGGER you can still customise your postformed edge worktop in a variety of decors, so you should be able to find a finish which suits your interiors.

• While this type of edge is not very susceptible to damage, chips and cracks can be more noticeable if they do occur due to the rounded edge design. This shouldn’t be a problem if you invest in premium quality and durable postformed edge worktops, like the ones here at EGGER.

Pros

• The rounded shape of this edge reduces the risk of chips and damage, which you can get with sharper designs that aren’t adequately protected.

• These soft edges can also be useful in busy kitchens where you may find yourself bumping into worktop corners more often.

• The rounded profile of the full bullnose eliminates sharp edges, making it a safer choice for households with children.

Cons

• The bullnose design can look a little bulky, which does not best suit minimalist interiors or more compact kitchens.

• Spills can run over the rounded edge more easily.

• This profile is less common in certain materials, so you may struggle to find a bullnose edge in a finish you love.

• While bullnose worktops are less susceptible to chips and dents, the fully rounded edge can make them more noticeable if they do occur.

Pros:

• The rounded edges can make them a safer choice for families with little ones.

• The slight curve makes this edge less prone to chipping compared to some sharper edges.

• They are easy to clean and therefore don’t accumulate as much dirt as other more intricate edges.

Cons:

• They are relatively simplistic in style, and may not be the best option for those looking for bold, statement-making countertops.

• With double pencil edges, the rounded bottom edge means that countertop spills can be more likely to leak into the cupboards underneath rather than spill directly on the floor.

• Depending on the material used, pencil edges can be a more expensive option.

• Pencil edges can make a countertop appear thinner, which may not suit your space if you’re looking for a more robust-looking countertop.

• Like bullnose edge counters, chips and dents can be more noticeable on pencil edge worktops due to their rounded edge.

Pros

• There are a wide variety of bevel designs on the market, ranging from subtle to more pronounced slants, making them a versatile choice.

• The angled slant of a bevel edge can create a sense of depth and dimension, so it can be a good option for a statement worktop.

Cons

• Due to requiring more complex cutting techniques than many other worktop edges, they can be on the pricey side.

• The angled edge can sometimes trap dust and debris, which may mean more frequent cleaning.

• Although not the sharpest countertop edge available, they can still feel sharp to the touch depending on the material and angle of the cut.

• The angled edge may show signs of wear over time, especially with frequent use.

Pros

• This is a very distinctive look and could be a good option for those looking for a statement countertop.

• The thin design can be a good space-saving illusion for smaller kitchens.

• The cutting-edge style can make it a good option for a minimalist kitchen.

Cons

• This is one of the pricier worktop edge profiles.

• As the protruding edge is so thin, it can be more susceptible to damage.

• This is a very distinctive countertop and not to everyone’s taste. If you plan on moving in the future, or you’re flipping a house to sell, it may be safer to go for a more versatile and timeless style.

• The sleek look of this style makes it a poor option for more traditional kitchens.

Pros:

• The ornate and sophisticated style of this worktop edge profile can lend itself well to classic, high-end kitchens.
• The curves can help to minimise visible signs of wear and tear, particularly in stone materials.

Cons:

• As it is a more ornate countertop edge, it can be quite expensive.
• The intricate curves of the design can trap dirt and make it difficult to clean.
• The ornate style can work well in classic kitchens, but it often looks out of place when surrounded by modern interiors.
• Not all materials are suitable for ogee edges, so it can be hard to customise an ogee edge worktop to make it truly your own.

Durability: Worktops are a big investment, so you should choose one with an edge that will last. Keep in mind that thinner profiles, such as sharks nose edge worktops, may be more prone to wear and tear over time.

Space: You should think about how a certain edge will look in your space. For example, if you have a small kitchen, a thinner edge is a better choice, as is an edge with rounded corners to prevent injuries in tight spaces.

Safety: For families with young children, rounded edges like postformed are safer as they reduce the risk of injury.

Hygiene: More intricate edges, such as ogee edges, can take longer to clean as dirt and grime can get trapped. Smooth rounded surfaces like postformed edge worktops tend to be the easiest to clean.

Future interior changes : If you like switching up your style a lot, you should consider choosing a versatile counter edge style, like a square edged worktop, so it will perfectly complement any future changes you plan on making.

Selling up: Versatile edges are also a good option for those who plan on selling their property in the future, as they have the widest appeal.

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This article is for informational purposes only. If you are searching for the information about specific EGGER products, please visit our knowledge hub .