Strengthen Your Countertops With A DIY Addition For Extra Support

Countertops are the unsung heroes of kitchens. These sturdy structures do everything from holding heavy appliances to giving us space to sprawl out for meal prep and dinner parties. But what about countertops with overhangs? This style is visually stunning, but it can require additional support depending on the chosen length and material. Whether you need to add more support to your countertops or just want to create a unique design aesthetic, you can build your own support beams as a dazzling DIY that'll turn your countertops into a unique feature. It's a great upgrade project that can improve your countertop's design as well as its weight capacity.

There are several ways to go about this countertop DIY, but before you begin, you'll want to decide what type of post you'll use. You can craft your own post out of a solid piece of wood, or purchase a pre-carved column like the Ekena Millwork Legacy Tapered Cabinet Column. You aren't even limited to having a wood column — you could thrift some sturdy cast iron balusters as a way to really spice up the design. Regardless of the method you choose, taking your time with the installation steps is the best way to achieve a clean final product.

The installation steps for a DIY countertop support beam will vary depending on the materials you choose to work with. For projects using wood beams, you'll want to start by cutting your posts slightly shorter than the required height. This trick is helpful for making sure there's a snug fit between the countertop and the post without too much of a mess during the installation. For projects with iron rods, use a chop saw to cut the rod to size before installation. If it's too short, consider using wood blocks as a stylish height addition. Next, determine the post placement by marking the area and underside of the countertop with painter's tape and using spacer blocks to maintain proper alignment. Apply silicone adhesive like GE Advanced Silicone Caulk to the countertop (not the post) and slide the post into place. To secure the base, pre-drill angled holes and fasten the post to the floor. Caulk around the edges for a polished finish, and you're good to go.

Adding a support post to your kitchen island is a great DIY countertop upgrade for those looking to save money, but especially for those who are considering selling their homes. It's important to consider the pros and cons of a countertop upgrade when selling your home to determine if it's a project worth investing in. Even if you're not looking to put your property on the market, taking the time to upgrade your kitchen countertops will result in a beautiful area you can enjoy for years.