The Design Process includes the Options You Want

Countertop Design Features or Options

Part of the countertop design process involves including the features or options that the client wants. Nathan will guide the client to choose the feature they need and recommend the necessary countertop features that best fit the customer’s requirements. The stone countertop features are discussed at the Free Countertop Design Session and Quote in your home. Please note that features can significantly impact the price. Thus, Nathan will help decide on the features to fit your budget.

There are two types of features you can purchase: Implicit Features and Explicit Features. To arrive at a final price, the client must approve all the features they need. Implicit Features are those feature items that change the countertop surface. Explicit Features are those that increase the surface of the stone countertop system. In either case, adding features will increase the price. Your feature choices depend on your individual preferences, lifestyle and the overall countertop design you want to achieve.

Countertop Design Features

Implicit Countertop Features

  • Edge Profile (see detailed description below)
  • Mitered Edges (giving the appearance of a thicker, seamless edge)
  • Surface Finish (see detailed description below)
  • Slab Cut-ins for sink/faucet, controls for light, Garbage disposal & etc
  • Select Sink, Faucet & Mounting
  • Surface Dimensions
  • Sealant (see detailed description below)
  • Warranty: 2-year or lifetime

Explicit Countertop Features

  • Backsplash
  • Replace Drywall
  • Side Panel or Waterfall
  • Wall Cladding
  • Extra Countertop Overhang
  • Extended Countertop as a Kitchen Table
  • Additional Countertops or Kitchen Island

Countertop Edge Profiles

The edge profile can impact the countertop aesthetic appearance, safety, durability, maintenance and price. The following are the most popular edge profiles Nathan provides:

  • Radius: top rounded with a clean contemporary look & good safety
  • Beveled: sharp 45-degree angle cut along the top edge, decorative & helps deflect spills
  • Full Bullnose: fully rounded. offers maximum safety, ideal for family & kids & less prone to chipping
  • Ogee: elegant “s: shape curve, luxurious touch. suitable for traditional & high-end countertops & extra effort to clean
  • Demi Bullnose: smooth, rounded edge that’s elegant & versatile, durable, easy to clean, resists chipping & reduces pill.
  • Chiseled: looks rugged unfinished for rustic or industrial design. unique & more effort to clean
radius edge profile for stone countertop
bevel edge profile for stone countertop
bull nose edge profile for stone countertop
ogee edge profile for stone countertop
demi bullnose edge profile for stone countertop
chiseled profile for stone countertop

Countertop Surface Finishing

This feature is performed at the Fabrication Shop. Pricing varies based on the desired finish and the type of stone slab. The following is a list of the most popular surface finishing:

  • Glossy luxurious, easy to clean, & stain & scratch resistant,
  • Honed: subdued, smooth, matte finish that depends on the stone, contemporary look, porous, requires sealant & shows scratches
  • Leathered: textured finish with subtle sheen, unique tactile touch, resists stains, resists smudges compared to glossy or honed finishes
  • Flamed: created by intense heat that provides a rough, textured, non-slip surface & often used for outdoor kitchens.

Countertop Sealants

Natural stone, such as marble, granite, and to a lesser extent quartzite, is porous and requires sealing. Additionally, stones with a honed finish are recommended to be sealed.

  • High Quality Impregnating Sealers: are recommended to protect 3 – 5 years or longer, depending on the specific brand product and amount of countertop usage,
  • According to Tenax USA: sealer like Hydrex & Proseal are effective in preventing liquid absorption that cause discoloration
  • Food Safety: It’s recommended to seal porous countertops to prevent microbial growth. Natural sealers, such as Skudo & Walnut oil, are non-toxic and, in many instances, outperform synthetic sealers.
  • Regular Cleaning: periodic use of a pH-neutral stone cleaner is recommended to maintain the natural stone surface.

With 25+ Years of Experience, Nathan's Greatest Strength is his Creative Countertop Design Expertise.

To get started, Call Nathan

(727) 365-7036

Get a Free Quote

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