How to Brace a Laminate Countertop

Gone are the days when laminate countertops were ugly, deformed sore spots in your kitchen. Laminate countertops today feature a variety of colors and patterns while maintaining a durable exterior. Laminate countertops have begun to resemble granite countertops with natural stone patterns, similar colors, decorative edges and long overhangs. Like granite, laminate countertops that have large overhangs must be braced to avoid an unsupported overhang that may break or splinter from the rest of the countertop.

Tape measure
Counter braces
Carpenter's pencil
C-clamp
Drill
Drill bit
1/4-inch hex head socket
Lag bolts
Caulk
Caulking gun

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the width of the cabinets with a tape measure.
- 2
  Calculate the number of counter braces you need. You need a steel brace for every 18 to 24 inches of counter space. If you're installing the countertop on an island, factor in the number of braces you need for each side. Counter braces are available in a variety of sizes. Select the counter brace that's adequate for the amount of overhang you have.
- 3
  Measure 2 inches from the left edge of the cabinet flush against the top of the cabinet. Mark the location with a carpenter's pencil on the countertop.
- 4
  Clamp the brace in place with a C-clamp. Tighten the clamp so the brace stays steady and level.
- 5
  Color in the fastener holes in the counter brace. Remove the counter brace.
- 6
  Drill pilot holes into the colored areas with the drill and bit.
- 7
  Reposition the counter brace into place. Put a 1/4-inch hex head socket onto the driver and drill the lag bolts to fasten the brace to the cabinet.
- 8
  Continue to add braces along the top of the cabinet every 18 to 24 inches until you've installed all of the necessary counter braces.
- 9
  Place caulk inside the caulking gun. Caulk around the perimeter of each brace so the laminate countertop doesn't shift over time.

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