Quartz worktops can be finished with a variety of edge profiles — from simple flat polished edges to elaborate ogee and bullnose shapes. Not all edge profiles are equally resistant to chipping. Understanding the relationship between edge profile and chip risk helps you both choose wisely when ordering and understand why certain damage occurs when it does.
Common Edge Profiles
Square / Pencil Edge
The square or pencil edge — a flat face with a small radius on the corners — is the most popular modern edge profile. The top corner of a square edge is the most vulnerable point: a 90° corner concentrates impact force. However, the relatively thin profile means repairs are straightforward.
Bullnose Edge
A fully rounded bullnose edge is more impact-resistant than a square edge because there’s no sharp 90° corner. Force is distributed across the curve rather than concentrated at a point. Bullnose edges are less likely to chip but when they do, the curved profile is more difficult to repair invisibly.
Bevelled Edge
Bevelled edges — with the top corner cut at 45° — reduce the corner vulnerability compared to a square edge. The bevel distributes impact better and is less prone to the corner chip that’s the most common quartz edge damage.
Ogee and Dupont Edges
More ornate profiles with multiple curves and changes of direction have more vulnerable transitions — particularly the upper corner of an ogee where a convex and concave section meet. These profiles are aesthetically impressive but among the most difficult to repair when damaged.
Mitred / Stacked Edges
Mitred or stacked edges — where two pieces of quartz are joined at 45° to create the illusion of a thicker worktop — have a visible joint that can develop chips or separation. The mitred joint is a structural vulnerability point and the most common damage location in stacked edge worktops.
All Edge Profiles Can Be Repaired
Regardless of edge profile, chips can be repaired. Some profiles are more complex and take longer — but a skilled technician can repair any profile type. Request a free edge chip repair quote →
