Stone countertops are very popular right now, and for good reason. They are hardy, beautiful and built to last. However, since stone is a much heavier material than ceramic tile or most synthetic countertop materials, you should consider the weight of the stone before you plan any kind of overhang. With this information, you can decide if a standard overhang or an extended overhang is best for you and your home.

Standard Overhang

The standard overhang denotes a slight overhang off the edge of the cabinetry. It varies in length depending on the type of cabinet doors you have under your countertops. If you have full inset doors that are installed flush with the cabinetry, you may be able to get away with an overhang around 1” or even less depending on the edge detail you select. A full overlay for cabinet doors means that the door is fully outside the cabinet. Full overlay doors usually require a longer overhang, as much as 1.5” or more depending on the thickness of the cabinet door and the edge detail you select for your countertops.

Extended Overhang

Beyond the minimum requirements, there are a few reasons why you might consider having an extended overhang. Perhaps you have longed to create a breakfast bar on one of your countertops, or simply to have more workspace for your culinary endeavors. You may also opt for a round or otherwise designed overhang to add to the beauty of your custom kitchen. However, the amount you can extend the overhang depends on the support your countertop provides. Stone is heavy, and an overhang that is too long may damage your countertops. If you do not have space to add extra support under the countertop for the overhang, you should plan to make the overhang 8”or less beyond the countertop.

Adding Support for Extended Overhang

If you want to have an extended overhang that exceeds 8”, or the weight of your selected material requires it, you can install additional supports to the cabinetry or the floor to shoulder some of the weight. Most people prefer to use brackets or corbels to provide that extra support as needed. However, if your cabinetry will not accommodate these extensions, you could also consider adding columns to the overhang that will support the increased weight.

Many people like to create an overhang on their marble, quartz or granite countertops, to provide them with extra counter space. However, they must make sure that the countertop will support the weight of the stone, especially at the point of the overhang. Adding extra support to a longer overhang improves the look of the countertop, and minimizes the risk of damage. For more information and advice about adding granite countertops to your Denver home, contact us today.

Source

http://granite-tops.com/determine-countertop-overhang, http://qualityincounters.globalspan.net/overhangs.htm,

http://www.spicelandwood.com/cabinet-countertop-inspirations/cabinet-doors-what-are-the-options