How to Support a Granite Countertop Overhang

Support an overhang from below with a steel plate.

Granite countertops are used frequently in kitchen designs. If you are installing a granite counter on a kitchen island, or on a half wall, you may also wish to include an overhang for seating. Any overhang greater than 6 to 8 inches should be supported from below to keep it from cracking if leaned on. Since decorative brackets may come loose, or get in the way of seating, a thin steel plate can be adhered to the granite to help it support weight.

Things You'll Need

• 1/8-inch thick steel plate 4 inches smaller in width and length than the granite overhang
• Drill with a steel bit
• Screws
• Epoxy

Instructions

1. Place a 1/8-inch steel plate directly onto the cabinet the granite will be installed on. Line up the one edge of the steel plate with the edge of the cabinet the granite will not be overhanging. The other side of the steel plate should extend out over the cabinets to within 4 inches of where the granite will end.

2. Drill holes in the steel plate with a steel bit where the plate will line up with the cabinet's stiles, or edge. Screw the plate directly onto the cabinet where it meets the cabinet's edge for support.

3. Apply epoxy to the steel plate. Make a large X over the plate, and then trace the edge of the plate with a solid line of epoxy. Lift the granite slab over the plate and settle it into place. The steel will extend beneath the slab and hold it in place, the epoxy will harden within 24 hours and will permanently fix the plate to the granite.

References

• Ask the Builder: Granite Countertops

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish