Mitered-Edge Countertops

Mitered Edge Countertops This is a great question that I en- counter frequently. Most assume these "thicker" countertops result from thicker granite or quartz slabs, but Interestingly, there are essentially only two counter- top thicknesses sold in this region. So how do some companies market thicker countertops? The answer lies in a sophisticated fab- rication process called mitering. Mitered countertops have a thickened edge. In the hands of the most skilled fabricators, mitered edge countertops appear to be two to three times thicker than the slabs they originated from, with no visible seams. MITERED OR LAMINATED? An older and less tedious thickened countertop process is called laminat- ing. Essentially laminating glues two countertop pieces on top of each other, resulting in a countertop edge twice as thick as the original. Unfortunately, this process only works well if the coun- tertop is a solid color. Otherwise, the resulting countertop edge has a notice- ably mismatched grain or veining that is apparent to even the novice observer. Also, laminating produces a noticeable seam between the two adjoining slabs that is nearly impossible to obscure. Mitered edge countertops (bottom TIM, We are shopping for quartz countertops for our new home. We have seen countertops online that appear thin and sometimes un- attractive, while others are much thicker and more attractive. Why is there a difference, and how can we get the thicker countertops? MITERED LAMINATED

left page) have none of the unpleasant features associated with laminated edges. The edge graining is near perfect, and the seam is nearly imperceptible to the necked eye. SO WHY DOESN'T EVERYONE OFFER MITERED COUNTER- TOPS? The answer lies in the sophisticated equipment and skill needed to produce mitered edge countertops. The equipment to produce these beautiful counter- tops can cost thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Also, the fabricator must be skilled in the art of mitered edge fabrication. ARE MITERED EDGE COUNTER- TOPS AVAILABLE LOCALLY? In a word, Yes! Some local countertop fabricators have the ability to produce stunningly beautiful, mitered edge coun- tertops. Whether you are shopping for coun- tertops, cabinets, or other kitchen com- ponents, the most satisfied consumers search out knowledgeable builders who perpetually stay abreast of the latest tech- niques and technology. Surprisingly, these builders are typically no more expensive to hire than their less experienced and less knowledgeable counterparts. BG