Quartz is a beautiful stone that people use for their kitchen and bathroom countertops. It is versatile, durable, and fits aesthetically with the kitchen design. Quartz gets stained but can also be cleaned using quartz-specific cleaners. Quartz is prone to scratching and chemical reactions if a correct cleanser is not used on the surface. To know more about the best products for cleaning quartz countertops, read here:
https://www.caesarstoneus.com/blog/best-cleaners-for-quartz-countertops-reviewed/
However, it is important to understand that some countertop designs may require an overhang. There are several kinds of overhangs available for kitchen countertops. The kind of overhang one chooses depends on the countertop material, budget, and many other similar factors. This article discusses quartz countertop overhang support requirements, types, and more.
What is a countertop overhang?
A countertop overhang is nothing but an extended part of the countertop. It helps cover the drawers and other kitchen cabinets under the countertop to prevent any food residue, crumbs, and liquid from spilling off the countertops.
A standard quartz countertop overhang usually stands at 1.5 inches. However, the range can vary based on the design and the requirement of the homeowner. In addition, when a countertop overhang is used in a kitchen, people generally use a 12″ length. But again, the length may differ based on the overall design.
For example, when the quartz countertop has cabinets underneath, it will require the stand 1.5 inches overhang. However, if the countertop also has seating around, the quartz countertop overhang will be 1 foot. The homeowners choose to customize the seating area overhang but should always consult the professionals to understand the overhang range.
Factors to consider while choosing the right quartz countertop overhang
One should consider various factors while choosing the quartz countertop overhang for their home. For example, countertop overhangs help in keeping the cabinets safe and providing a comfortable seating area; but before deciding, look at the following factors:
- Brand: Quartz is a strong and durable stone; however, the strength may differ from brand to brand; therefore, homeowners must choose the right brand for buying quality quartz countertops for their kitchen or bathroom.
- Space: Space is an integral factor to consider before deciding on a standard quartz countertop overhang or extended overhang for the countertops in the kitchen. There’s no doubt that overhang countertops help create more space for the preparation area and dining area. However, it is equally true that they also take up a lot of space. Therefore, it is advised to consult the professionals and understand space mathematics.
- 70% rule: please note that 70% of the countertop needs support; therefore, the overhang range should be decided to keep this rule in mind. If at all homeowners choose to overhang more than 30% of the countertop, then they use fixtures to provide extra support like corbels, posts, and brackets.
- Quartz countertop thickness: the thickness of the countertops plays an important role in deciding the overhang range. For example, a heavier countertop can withstand a good overhang range. But if the countertop is thinner than usual, it will require fixtures for extra support.
Overhang requirements for quartz countertops
Overhang measurement requirements vary based on the type of countertop overhang homeowners choose. Therefore, measuring and choosing the required measurement is as important as picking the right countertop style. Read on to understand the overhang requirements, measurements, and types.
Standard countertop overhang
Standard quartz countertop over hang is the most commonly found design in commercial and residential properties. Ideally, a standard overhang is 1.5 inches thick and matches the thickness of the countertop. However, this measurement can differ based on the countertop thickness and installed area.
It is so popular among homeowners because it saves space and efficiently fulfills the purpose. In addition, this countertop overhang prevents liquid spills, food residue, and small particles from getting into the drawer. Thus, a very efficient option for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
Extended overhang
As the name suggests, an extended overhang is one where the overhang extends a little too much from the countertop. The ideal measurements that an extended overhang can work for a countertop depend on the countertop thickness. For example, a countertop with 1.5″ thickness can tolerate an overhang of 1- 11/16 inches. Likewise, the countertop with 8mm thickness can be overhung to 2-⅛ inches.
Furthermore, this overhang style fits the best for Caesarstone countertops. Quartz countertop with extended overhang requires extra fixtures like corbels for support.
Island overhang
Island overhang is the extended version of the standard quartz countertop overhang. The measurements vary depending upon the homeowner’s choice of island. Particularly, it is impacted directly by the design of the countertop. In addition, the requirements from the overhang are also responsible for measuring the overhang size.
People are interested in island overhang because it gives the extra space to prepare and serve food. Furthermore, it adds elegance and a touch of uniqueness to the whole kitchen design.
Access standard
Looking to create an ADA-friendly space using an overhang? If yes, then the measurements are different from other overhang types. Ideally, a minimum of 31″ space is required in the front of the countertop, and it needs to have a height of 38″ from the floor. For residential properties, people may use the same measurements or can consult professionals for advice and design the overhang accordingly.
Fixtures for quartz countertop overhang
The Quartz countertop overhang needs extra support to stay strong and not fall off the surface. Therefore, professionals use the following fixtures to provide the extra needed for quartz countertops:
- Demi-bullnose: The corners of the quartz countertop are cut at a 45-degree angle. It smoothens the countertop edges while providing maximum support to the countertop. In addition, it is easy to clean and gives a warmer look to the kitchen.
- Corbels: It is placed under the countertop overhang and offers much-needed support to the countertop. To ensure that they offer the support, you should install them not too far away from the countertop.
- Brackets: These are amazing fixtures that offer strength to quartz countertop overhang; however, they do not always look good. Therefore, people pick brackets that are hidden yet perform their tasks efficiently.
Final words
Quartz countertop overhang is commonly utilized in all business and residential establishments because it protects the cabinets beneath from liquid spillage. It also completes the aesthetic of the countertop. The overhang countertop provides a variety of creative possibilities for the kitchen, complementing the aesthetic.