How to Add a Raised Countertop Using Brackets

Check the thickness of the cabinet or wall where you intend to install the brackets for the raised countertop. For support, you need a backing that's at least 3/4 inch thick.

Position the brackets on the surface where you wish to install the countertop. If installing against an existing cabinet or countertop, position the end brackets a full foot from the ends of the counter. Check the height of the bracket when positioned as this will indicate the bottom of the new floating countertop. Place a bracket at most every 30 inches apart, and mark the location of the holes in the brackets on the mounting surface with a pencil through the mounting holes. You'll want to use three brackets at a minimum, equally spaced.

Use an electric drill with a 1/8-inch bit and drill pilot holes at the marked locations, drilling each hole about 1/2 inch deep.

Check that the brackets are level using a carpenter's level, and then mount them in place using lag bolts. Tighten the bolts by hand with a socket wrench.

Place the countertop flat over the brackets. Apply a bead of silicone caulk over the edges of the brackets against the bottom of the countertop and allow the caulking to dry for 24 hours to hold the countertop in place.