Why Choose Pencil Edge Countertops for Your Kitchen

The pencil edge is the go to choice for many looking to finish their new countertop with a custom edge that ticks all the boxes, from safety to stylish. If you’re looking to implement it into your kitchen design, well, so is (almost) everyone else. Why? It’s perfectly simple and elegant enough to coexist in any kitchen layout. 

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Pencil edge countertops were seen rising in popularity since the early 2000s, especially in contemporary and minimalist kitchen designs. Their rise can be attributed to the evolving trend towards clean lines and understated elegance in home decor. This edge style quickly became a staple in modern homes across the United States and Europe, offering a blend of safety, functionality, and aesthetics.

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What Exactly is a Pencil Edge?

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Pencil edge countertops are known for their very small beveled edge, referred to as a ‘chamfer’, that eliminates its original square edge with a touch of roundness. Its subtly rounded edge, reminiscent of a pencil's soft curve, is where the name comes from. This design isn't overly sharp or too rounded, offering a sleek, minimalist appearance. The pencil edge strikes a balance between aesthetic appeal and practicality, making it a go-to option for many homeowners.

Exploring the Simplicity of Pencil Edges

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The pencil edge is incredibly versatile. It offers a clean, subtle look without being too fancy. Below are the main reasons why this minimalist design is selected so frequently:

•  Suits Both Modern and Traditional Kitchens: Its simplicity fits various design styles. People love an option that won't go out of style.
•  Minimizes Chipping Risk: No sharp angles to chip easily. Eliminates potential risk of inconvenient stone repair.
• Easy to Clean: No complicated grooves where dirt can hide. 
• Affordable: Often more cost-effective than designing with intricate edges.

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With a pencil edge, the countertops beauty really stands out. For those who love to embrace minimalism, this edge is a perfect choice!

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How Does it Compare to an Eased Edge Countertop?

For people looking for similar benefits to what the pencil edge offers, oftentimes the 'eased edge' is right there in the same category. It's essential to understand the practical differences between both of these square based edges before selecting the right one. Here’s our explanation of the two:

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    Pencil Edge: Features a slightly more rounded edge than the eased edge. It reduces the risk of injury and is easy to clean, making it ideal for those that have busy kitchens. The versatility of it blends well with various materials like granite, quartz, and marble.

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    Eased Edge: Quite similar to the pencil edge but with a more pronounced flatness before the rounding begins. It too offers a clean, straight look suitable for contemporary designs. The eased edge combines durability with ease of maintenance, though it may not look as soft in appearance as the pencil edge. Naturally, it blends well with a variety of common stone countertop materials.

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Are There Any Drawbacks?

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• Customization: Limited in decorative possibilities compared to more intricate edge profiles.
• Cost: Can sometimes be more expensive depending on the material used.‍
• Perceived Simplicity: Might seem too basic for those looking for a more elaborate countertop design.‍
• Availability: Not always available in pre-fabricated countertop options.

Conclusion: Why Choose a Pencil Edge Countertop?

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Considering these advantages, it's clear why a pencil edge countertop is a smart choice for any kitchen remodel or build. The combination of style, functionality and safety makes it a timeless option for incorporating into your home.

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For amazing natural stone surfaces and custom countertop fabrication available right here in Central Oregon, look no further than working with our passionate remodeling experts at Nelson Tile and Stone! Contact us today to find the perfect countertop + edge combo that fits best in your home.

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