Countertop Overhang Support Options

Done Correctly With Wood Cabinetry

Properly supporting your stone is essential for safety, durability and function. Many consumers skip this critical step. It is inexpensive, easy and practical. For different scenarios there are other options.

Remember, there is no one “right way”, but the stone must be fully supported. And, you may never have an overhang more than a 1/3rd unsupported. No overhang can never exceed 12 inches in total .

Counterbalance Bar

Counter Balance brand support bars are specifically designed to be cut into and secured to your kitchen cabinets. These T-shaped bars are black powder coated. They are specifically designed to support up to 12 inches without additional support.

The Counter Balance T-shaped profile is appropriate for counter balancing overhangs. Remember there must be 2/3rd of the stone fully supported via cabinets and not more than 1/3rd overhanging. These brackets are an alternative to corbels or legs.

Pictured right, are examples of the bar shown as an alternative wooden leg. The bars allow leg room under an overhang. Notice it does not compete with the supporting member.

These and all supporting items are installed by your cabinet installer.

This is not included as a counter-top installation.

The cabinets needs to be modified to accept the bracket.

Counterbalance Bar & Counterbalance Plate

Counterbalance Brand

Counterbalance Brand Plates are another alternative to corbels or legs. Manufactured by Counterbalance they are powder coated black. They have recessed screw holes for a flush installation.

Options

This option allows for a “clean floating look” of your overhang. These need to be installed by your carpenter. They need to be recessed into your 2 x 4 framed wall. They need to be strong to support the overhanging counter-top.

Safety Rule

The maximum overhang will be determined by the amount of material fully supported vs. that overhanging so that an unsafe situation is not created. The rule is 2/3rd supported to 1/3rd overhang maximum.

Examples

Pictured are examples of a plate vs. the more traditional support method of a wall cap style support option.

Carved Wooden Corbels

Carved wooden corbels can be stained or painted. This is a traditional method of supporting overhangs.

It is important to select the proper mounting location. Because the corbel offers substantial support. Cabinet backs are frequently used to mount corbels and may require a beefier structure to offer structural support.

Consult your cabinet installer, or templator if you are not comfortable with making the decision yourself.

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