How to Brace a Countertop Extension

Measure the length of the extension with a tape measure and divide this measurement by 12 inches. This will give you the number of braces you will need to secure the extension, with a brace on each end and the rest distributed evenly between.

Measure about 2 inches from one end of the countertop where you intend to place the extension. Position the brace against the countertop base with the flat of the brace level with the top of the countertop cabinet. Clamp the brace in place to hold it while you mark the mounting holes through the brace and into the countertop cabinet base with a marker.

Determine the thickness of the cabinet panel and the brace. Combine the two and subtract 1/4-inch to determine the screw length. Set the drill for the length depth or place a piece of masking tape around the bit at the depth to let you know when you’ve drilled deep enough. Drill the marked holes with an electric drill and a drill bit large enough to create a hole that provides a tight entry for a 1/4-inch lag bolt.

Set the brace into place then use an electric screwdriver with a ratchet bit to place the lag bolts through the brace and into the cabinet. Tighten the lag bolts with a ratchet. Repeat the process 2 inches from the other end of the extension and for all the braces in between.

Place the countertop extension onto the installed braces and install lag bolts through the flat tops of the braces into the bottom of the extension to hold it in place.