Mitered Edge Countertops: Pros and Cons, Cost Factors, and More

Jenna Jonaitis
Written by Jenna Jonaitis
Updated March 7, 2022
Family at kitchen island
Photo: Monkey Business / Adobe Stock

Highlights

  • Mitered edges offer a thick, luxurious look to a kitchen or bathroom.

  • This edge profile complements both traditional and modern styles.

  • Almost any countertop material can have a mitered edge.

  • The cost of a mitered edge is usually an upcharge of $15–$45 per linear foot.

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Each element of your kitchen or bathroom plays a role in its atmosphere and appearance. A mitered countertop edge is a bold design choice that offers a beautiful, thicker countertop finish without the cost of cutting a slab of stone, quartz, marble, or other material. Learn all about what a mitered edge is, its pros and cons, costs, and if it’s right for your countertop.” to “Learn all about what a mitered edge is, its pros and cons, costs, and if it’s the right edge for your countertop.

What is a Mitered Edge?

A mitered edge is a seamless 90-degree edge that joins the top countertop surface with a second, smaller piece of countertop. The two pieces are cut at 45-degree angles and fused together for a seamless look. A mitered edge profile offers the appearance of a thicker slab of stone or granite or merges with a waterfall panel

A mitered edge profile is a specialty edge that you can request from your local countertop installer and is distinct from a square edge. You can choose an apron size—the apron is the piece that hangs down vertically—between 2 cm and 6 cm. The thicker the apron, the greater the impression it leaves. You can also choose an eased mitered edge, which offers a rounded look where the two pieces join.

When creating a mitered edge, the pattern needs to match up precisely between the two pieces of countertop material. The slabs should be precisely cut and then mounted together, so there are no visible joints. A mitered edge takes skill, experience, and care—definitely, one that's best left to a countertop expert.  

Cutting thicker slabs of granite, stone, or marble is more costly, making a mitered edge profile a great way to achieve a wider look with any additional countertop material.

Pros and Cons of Mitered Edge Countertops

A mitered edge offers a contemporary finish but isn’t right for every space. Here are the main benefits and drawbacks of a mitered edge countertop:

Pros of Mitered Edges

  • Adds an elegant finish to a kitchen or bathroom

  • Provides a thicker appearance or leads into a waterfall edge

  • Costs less than a new slab of granite, stone, marble, or other material

  • Gives the room a focal point or statement

  • Pairs well with modern and traditional designs

  • Easy to clean and maintain countertop

Cons of Mitered Edges

  • More expensive than a standard edge

  • Requires an experienced countertop installer

  • Cabinetry underneath must be able to support the weight of the extra countertop material

When and Where To Use Mitered Edges

Mitered edge on white countertop
Photo: Photographee.eu / Adobe Stock

Mitered edge countertops appear in both kitchens and bathrooms, and commonly on kitchen islands. This design element creates a focal point and contrast in the space. Mitered edges are also used as a smooth transition between different level countertops or extending the countertop to the floor with a waterfall panel.

An eased mitered edge is slightly rounded at the corner, while a standard mitered edge is a distinct 90-degree angle. The slight change in detailing can make a big statement, so you’ll want to review both styles before selecting.

Cost of Mitered Edges

The cost of mitered countertop edges ranges from $15 to $45 per linear foot in addition to the cost of the extra countertop material. In general, countertop pros offer standard edges that are included in the countertop price. Mitered edges are considered specialty edges that cost an upcharge plus material. 

As you budget for your countertops, ensure that any cabinetry below can support the extra weight. You may need to upgrade your cabinetry, increasing your costs.

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