What Are Mitered Edge Countertops? Pros and Cons, Cost Factors, and More
Add a bit of luxury to your kitchen with this modern edge option
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.
Each element of your kitchen or bathroom plays a role in its atmosphere and appearance. A mitered edge countertop 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 a mitered edge, its pros and cons, costs, and if it’s right for your countertop.
What is a Mitered Edge Countertop?
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 two and six 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 must match up precisely between the two pieces of countertop material. The slabs should be precisely cut and then mounted together so no joints are visible. 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, but making a mitered edge profile is a great way to achieve a wider look with any additional countertop material.
Mitered Edge vs. Square Edge
Choosing the type of countertop edge for your kitchen or bathroom can greatly impact how the room looks. Adding an apron with a mitered edge makes the countertop look wider and more luxurious. A mitered edge also allows for a waterfall countertop that runs vertically from the countertop to the floor.
A square edge, on the other hand, is less expensive than a mitered edge, but it doesn’t capture the same luxury. Square edges are standard and result in a standard look.
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 | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant finish | Expensive |
| Easy to clean | Requires a pro |
| Modern | Heavy |
Pros of Mitered Edges
Adds an elegant finish to a kitchen or bathroom
Creates 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 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 has a distinct 90-degree angle. The slight change in detailing can make a big statement, so review both styles before selecting.
How Much Do Mitered Edge Countertops Cost?
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 countertop installation cost, ensure that any cabinetry below can support the extra weight. You may need to upgrade your cabinetry, increasing your costs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
While some DIYers may think they can channel their inner contractor for this project, it is no easy task. Cutting 45-degree angles requires expert precision and the correct tools to create a seamless waterfall-like edge. One teensy miscalculation will not only create unsightly seams but can also impact the structural integrity of the entire project.
Professionals have the right tools, adhesives, and experience to handle heavy slabs safely. When investing in a statement countertop made from luxury materials, you want to get the installation right the first time so you don’t waste a bundle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rounded countertop edges, like bullnose or eased edges, are the least likely to chip. Their smooth, curved design helps distribute impact more evenly, unlike sharp corners, which often take the brunt of a hit. Also, unlike pointed edges, rounded edges won't snag on material like dishcloths or clothing.
The difference between eased and mitered edges is aesthetic. Eased edges are slightly rounded, unlike straight cuts, making them smoother and more durable. Conversely, a mitered edge joins two slabs at a 45-degree angle, creating an illusion of a seamless waterfall-like surface.
Mitered edge countertops are usually 2 to 2.5 inches thick. The thickness accounts for the 45-degree angle required to form a seamless corner, resulting in a dramatic and thick-edged appearance.
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