This question, “How much overhang can I have without additional support”, is one of the most common questions and the answer is not necessarily straight forward or simple. It comes up daily and affects layout and overall design of many kitchens.
The straight answer is up to 12 inches for granite, providing 2/3 or more is cantilevered to offset the unsupported weight.
You can have more and sometimes less is recommended depending upon the actual stone. Very hard stones can safely support more overhang, providing the 2/3 cantilevered criteria is met. Softer or more fragile stones may dictate less overhang.
What options do you have if you just have to have more overhang.
- Corbels- Visible but decorative
- Brackets- Inexpensive and effective, installed properly works better on wall tops than upon cabinets themselves.
- Legs -Visible, decorative but in the way of chairs and peoples legs.
- Granite Counter-top support brackets- Hidden and concealed but offers great support. They must be installed before the granite and cut into the cabinet itself. They are specifically designed for this challenge.
- Rods- Can be installed inside of the stone to strengthen and potentially extend the limit as this technique does reinforces fragile stones, but does nothing to extend the cantilever rule of 2/3rds
Dan DiTomaso, Stone Masters inc. 515 School House Road Kennett Square PA 19348