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I have a 28mm thick worktop that has a slight curve on the edge which I am using as part of a low budget kitchen renovation. This will be my kitchen countertop.
The issue I have just found out before I was about to cut is the front has a slight curve to it, so when I join the corner piece it will be joining against a straight edge and will obviously have a bit of a gap.
given it is only 28mm I cannot use a masons mitre. Is there any other option I can use to make the corner joins look seamless? I was considering just using joint compound, silicone and painting over it to attempt to close the gap where the curve is.
any help is greatly appreciated!!
Hi @JR2,
I understand the challenge you're facing with the curved edge and the corner join. While a mason's mitre is typically ideal for creating seamless joins, I'm unsure why the 28mm thickness of your benchtop should not actually prevent you from using this technique. If you have enough material to work with, a mason's mitre should still be a viable option. If you’re unable to execute this cut yourself, you could opt for a standard mitre joint, which would work better than using joint compound, silicone, or paint to fill the gap. These options can lead to an uneven or visible finish over time, so it’s best to avoid them if possible.
Another alternative would be to enlist the help of a professional benchtop installer, especially if you want the join to look flawless. A professional can make the precise cuts needed to align the curve and the straight edges seamlessly, ensuring a neat and durable finish.
In short, if you have enough material, a mason's mitre is the way to go. If not, you might need to rethink the joint method or get expert help.
Let me tag @Dave-1 and @Nailbag to see if they have any thoughts.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Hi @JR2
I agree with @MitchellMc that a conventional mitre joint in lieu of fillers would have a more seamless join. It would also be worth considering his suggestion of getting a professional to make the cut and join. It's a cut that requires a high-level of skill and the correct tools and setup to perform manually.
As another alternative, there is a product called "Mason's Mitre Trim" which fills and covers the gaps/imperfections. This is available from online retailers.
Nailbag
Afternoon @JR2
Mmmm I m trying to picture your "slight bend" But am unsure of if its on the level part of the bench or the edge? Any chance of a couple of photos to show the issue? I would normally be agreeing with @MitchellMc about how to approach this but think I am missing something info wise.
Also Just learnt something new! @Nailbag's mention of "Masons miter trim" Will be filing that away for future use
Dave
thanks! I’ve attached some photos below. The edge facing towards the front is curved and the back is a square. So joining the two will leave a gap.
the carpenter I asked said it was not possible to use a masons mitre as it requires 35mm to work with. What is a conventional mitre? Is that just a butt join? If so, that is what I was intending to do however just wasn’t sure how to cover up the gap that the curved and square edge would leave
Afternoon @JR2
Ok, makes more sense now. You are reusing a curved edged bench and like me have used a term to the carpenter that might mean something else (I do it all the time ). I would call what you want a butt join or square join, but thats just the name in my head. These bench type connectors are what you may be thinking of using? Kaboodle Benchtops Join Kit in Products
I dont see a problem with cutting a flush edge so you can join another piece at 90 degrees. I would have another chat with your carpenter and see what they say. I know I could attempt it but also know there is a fair chance I may not be as accurate as I need to be.
Do you know if the benchtops are laminate? If they are ceasor stone or a manufactured product that would add complexity to the job at hand.
I do really like @Nailbag's backup solution in case its not possible.
Dave
A mitre joint is where both benchtops are cut at a 45-degree angle and joined together @JR2.
Mitchell
Hi Dave,
they are laminate benchtops. The front end is straight at the bottom but towards the top there is a slight curve where the 90 degrees is that joins both the horizontal and vertical of the benchtop (not sure if that makes much sense!). That’s where I would foresee a gap since I will be connecting a flush square edge to an edge with a flight rounding at the top
Got it thanks, would I need a significant amount of excess for this cut since the bottom is a different colour? So I can’t just flip it over to connect the 45 degrees
Evening @JR2
A Butt join would use less of the bench itself. Are you thinking of the miter cut (45deg angle) or a butt join (flush surfaces)?
Dave
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