Last updated on January 8th, 2021 at 04:33 pm
We are frequently asked about how strong are glass countertops? And for our 1.5″ thick glass countertops e.g. how many supports do we need?
The answer depends upon how much cantilevering or spanning between supports is needed, as well as how much ballast is provided.
We are continually amazed at the strength of our glass counter tops, and how far they can span gaps between, or beyond supports (cantilevering). In the picture below, we are using two supports that are 62″ apart. The glass is 96″ long. This strength has the effect of permitting support with only two brackets…and thus opening up the space between the kitchen and living room. “Floating” is the illusion thus created. The reverse would be having a cluttered support system consisting of eight vertical posts… and that would completely deflate the floating illusion. The countertop is attached to the supports with a large diameter, long continuous bead of crystal clear silicone and is allowed to cure before jostling the countertop. If the countertop is expected to receive heavy jostling, we can always attach two Low Profile Caps to secure it firmly to the brackets.
The custom brackets we suggest are simple, and can modified and fabricated to any design you desire. Frequently, our clients desire that we use these brackets to thrust the glass countertop over the edge of the lower surface…thus enhancing the width of the usable surface area, as well as making the counter more accessible for bar stools…and prevents your guests knees from hitting the lower surface. But be careful, the smaller the cabinet, the higher the risk of the whole cabinet and countertop tipping over. The cabinet itself should be firmly attached to the floor with “L” brackets or anchor bolts to eliminate that risk altogether.
Whatever you kitchen countertop need, we can advise you on counter top support options that will withstand the test of time.
Jeff Downing, Downing Designs, (800) 486 3650
Textured Glass High Bar and White Glass