<p>It would be hard to imagine a kitchen counter without an overhang. It’s a crucial part of the counter that makes it more functional, as it gives us more space to operate. Additionally, it prevents spillages and things from falling off the counter. It also protects the cabinets or drawers below.</p>
<p>But an overhang is today also part of the design of the kitchen. Choosing the right countertop overhang can make your kitchen look more sophisticated. But buying just any overhang is not the best.</p>
<p>There are some standard measurements that determine how wide and how long should the kitchen countertop overhang be. These measurements serve a practical purpose – it allows us to choose between countertops easier, and it’s easier to design the kitchen knowing the standard countertop overhang measurements.</p>
<h2>What are the Standard Countertop Overhang Measurements?</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/byron-by-dg-kitchen-bath/" rel="attachment wp-att-29870"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29870" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Byron-by-DG-Kitchen-Bath.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="718" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="https://www.dgchicago.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">DG Kitchen &; Bath</a></span></p>
<p>Although some people and designers still choose various measurements, there are some set standards when it comes to countertop overhangs. We can look at these from different angles, but there are some measurements we should try and stick to.</p>
<p><strong>The standard overhang is 1 ½ inches</strong>. This means that the countertop is 1 ½ inches over the edge of the base cabinet. This is the standard measurement, but not every kitchen countertop overhang will have this precise measurement.</p>
<p>This extension plays a crucial role in your kitchen. It keeps spills and various crumbs or other particles from entering your cabinets or drawers below. It also complements the counter-cupboard-toe-kick.</p>
<p>These are the standard overhang measurements.</p>
<table width="684">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Countertop</td>
<td>1 ½ inches</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Island</td>
<td>12 inches</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bar Top</td>
<td>12 inches</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Island Overhangs</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/chestnut-hill-addition-by-office-of-mark-armstrong-architect/" rel="attachment wp-att-29871"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29871" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Chestnut-Hill-Addition-by-Office-of-Mark-Armstrong-Architect.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="666" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="http://www.oma-architect.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Office of Mark Armstrong Architect</a></span></p>
<p>The standard measurement for island overhangs is different from countertops. It’s at 12 inches, and that’s because of the different requirement. There might be stools under the island overhang, and you can extend it even further. But that would require additional changes, such as adding supporting legs, and metal L-brackets to support the overhang.</p>
<p>This measurement comes handy with islands where you’re going to have a sitting area. 12 inches is the standard size, but it’s useful to know what you’re intending to do with the overhang. You might want more legroom, and that’s where an extension comes into play.</p>
<p>Some people like to have 15-inch or even 18-inch overhangs. But that draws additional changes that need to be made. You’ll need additional support for the granite overhang, such as supporting legs. It’s also an additional cost, and it warrants a rethink of the strategy.</p>
<h3>Access Standards</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/punch-of-blue-by-metropolitan-cabinets-countertops/" rel="attachment wp-att-29872"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29872" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Punch-of-Blue-by-Metropolitan-Cabinets-Countertops.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="679" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="https://metcabinet.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Metropolitan Cabinets &; Countertops</a></span></p>
<p>If you have someone who needs ADA friendly space, then the measurements are different. The standard countertop depth is 17”, and the height is 27”. The counter should also be at least 28” from the floor, and it can go even higher than that.</p>
<p>The wheelchairs will require plenty of space to fit in; at least 36” wide space should do, although you can go even wider than that.</p>
<h3>Countertop Clearance</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/beautiful-garden-view-from-kitchen-by-kraftmaster-renovations/" rel="attachment wp-att-29873"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29873" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Beautiful-Garden-View-from-Kitchen-by-KraftMaster-Renovations.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="666" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="http://www.kmrenovate.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">KraftMaster Renovations</a></span></p>
<p>You’ll also need to keep in mind that the bigger the countertop is, the less space it will be around it. Of course, you’ll have to have enough space for your appliances and kitchen features to fit onto the countertop.</p>
<p>But if the countertop is too wide, you might waste the space in your kitchen. There should be at least 42 inches of space between the countertop and the cabinets around. You’ll want to bump it up to 48 inches if you’ll want even more space.</p>
<h3>Overhang and Seating</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/eclectic-island-home-by-classic-kitchens-interiors/" rel="attachment wp-att-29874"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29874" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Eclectic-Island-Home-by-Classic-Kitchens-Interiors.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="https://ckdcapecod.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Classic Kitchens &; Interiors</a></span></p>
<p>If you intend to use the kitchen island as a part of the dining area, then you’ll want to ensure there’s enough legroom to sit behind the island. The standard countertop overhang won’t do; 1,5 inches is just not enough legroom.</p>
<p>In that case, you’ll need more countertop. Also, the higher the stools will be, the less space you’ll need for legroom. If the stools are bar height (42”), then you’ll need less countertop. If you’re at table height (about 30”), you’ll inevitably need more legroom and space.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/timeless-white-kitchen-by-zuern-kitchen-design-showroom/" rel="attachment wp-att-29875"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29875" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Timeless-White-Kitchen-by-Zuern-Kitchen-Design-Showroom.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="671" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="https://www.zuerns.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Zuern Kitchen Design Showroom</a></span></p>
<p>It doesn’t matter what the height will be; in the end, the width will have to be at least 24”, although if you want to use the bar for casual drinks, then 21” will do.</p>
<p>So what is enough legroom? If you’re intending to have 36” countertops away from the floor, then you’ll need slightly higher stools. 15” of legroom is usually enough in those cases. But for 42” countertops, 12-14” of legroom is adequate.</p>
<h3>Adding Extra Space</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/space-for-everyone-by-jennifer-gilmer-kitchen-bath/" rel="attachment wp-att-29876"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29876" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Space-for-Everyone-by-Jennifer-Gilmer-Kitchen-Bath.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="638" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="https://gilmerkitchens.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen &; Bath</a></span></p>
<p>You can increase the overhang to add more functionality to them. This way, you’ll easily manage spills and clean it easier. You’ll also have far more space to operate on.</p>
<p>Just a few inches can make a lot of difference. A kitchen countertop is the kitchen’s premium real estate, and you’ll want to ensure you use its maximum potential. If you use a kitchen island or a bar, you can easily extend the countertop to get more space and create a more functional environment.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/the-woodshop-of-avon-by-the-woodshop-of-avon/" rel="attachment wp-att-29877"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29877" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/The-Woodshop-of-Avon-by-The-Woodshop-of-Avon.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="672" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="http://www.thewoodshopofavon.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">The Woodshop of Avon</a></span></p>
<p>For kitchen islands, the standard countertop of the bar will be 12 inches. You can extend it and still create a safe kitchen island. You can extend it, but you’ll have to add some sort of support for the countertop. Hidden countertop bracket support will do the best as it will create a functional countertop and it will look way more elegant.</p>
<p>If you don’t support the overhang, you risk its wellbeing. That’s especially true for granite and <a href="https://eastcoastfl.com/2020/10/best-natural-stone-for-countertops/">stone countertops</a>. Stone countertops shouldn’t exceed 14” without support, while granite countertops shouldn’t exceed 10” without support. If it does exceed that number, consider getting some support for the countertop.</p>
<h3>Style Matters</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/scullery-by-pike-properties/" rel="attachment wp-att-29878"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29878" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Scullery-by-Pike-Properties.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="https://www.pikeproperties.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Pike Properties</a></span></p>
<p>The style will also play an important role when picking the countertop for you. First, you’ll have to choose the overhang size and measurements. The edging of the overhang can vary a lot, and it can impact the overall design of the kitchen. Here are some of the most common styles when it comes to countertops.</p>
<ul>
<li>Squared countertops is the standard, where the cut is made at 90 degrees. It’s also called flat.</li>
<li>Eased style is a slightly shaped countertop, and it’s the traditional style. The edges are rounded here.</li>
<li>Waterfall is the luxury style where the granite extends all the way to the floor.</li>
<li>Bullnose is the rounded edge.</li>
<li>Ogee style comes with an S-shaped edge. It’s an elegant and classic look that many decide to get.</li>
<li>Marine style looks like a lip at the edge of the countertop. It’s a raised edge, as opposed to mitered edges.</li>
<li>Custom styles are also quite common, where the users decide themselves how the edge will look like.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/countertop-overhang/incline-village-nv-1500-sq-ft-condo-remodel-by-riek-builds-inc/" rel="attachment wp-att-29879"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29879" src="https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Incline-Village-NV-1500-sq.ft-condo-remodel-by-RIEK-Builds-Inc.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="668" /></a><span style="font-size: 11px; color: #616161;">Image source: <a rel="nofollow" id="http://riekbuilds.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">RIEK Builds, Inc.</a></span></p>
<p>Transitional design is also becoming more and more popular. Countertops with little or no overhang are becoming more and more prevalent which provides a sleek design. You lose the overhang and the working space, but you gain some points in the overall design. Overall, it can look nicer this way, and it’s easier to plan out. But remember that you’re losing a lot of functionality that comes with the extra overhang.</p>
<h2>FAQs about the countertop overhang</h2>
<h3>1. What is a countertop overhang?</h3>
<p>The distance that a countertop extends beyond the edge of its supporting structure, such as a cabinet or island base, is known as the countertop overhang. A space that can be used for seating, food preparation, or other activities is created by the overhang.</p>
<h3>2. How much overhang should a countertop have?</h3>
<p>The type of countertop material, the intended use of the space, and the level of support provided are just a few of the variables that influence how much overhang is appropriate for a countertop. For granite, marble, or quartz worktops, a countertop overhang should typically be between 1 and 1.5 inches, and up to 12 inches for a breakfast bar or raised eating area.</p>
<h3>3. What is the purpose of a countertop overhang?</h3>
<p>A countertop overhang&#8217;s main objective is to provide a useful and pleasant area for eating or cooking. Additionally, it can highlight decorative elements or features and give visual appeal to a kitchen or other area.</p>
<h3>4. How can I determine the correct size of overhang for my countertop?</h3>
<p>Take into account the anticipated usage of the space as well as the weight of the countertop material when determining the right amount of overhang for a countertop. For a bigger overhang, more support might be necessary to keep the countertop from breaking or cracking. Furthermore, the overhang should match the countertop&#8217;s and the supporting structure&#8217;s dimensions in proportion.</p>
<h3>5. Can a countertop overhang be adjusted or changed?</h3>
<p>An adjustable or changing countertop overhang may be possible, depending on the kind of countertop and the supporting structure. However, it&#8217;s crucial to seek professional advice to make sure that any improvements are secure in their structural integrity.</p>
<h3>6. What materials are suitable for a countertop overhang?</h3>
<p>Depending on the level of support available, the intended use of the space, and personal preference, the materials appropriate for a countertop overhang will vary. Granite, marble, quartz, concrete, and wood are typical building materials.</p>
<h3>7. How is a countertop overhang installed?</h3>
<p>Depending on the kind of countertop and supporting structure, a countertop overhang installation procedure may differ. Generally speaking, the overhang ought to be fastened with brackets or other supports that disperse weight uniformly and shield it from breaking or cracking.</p>
<h3>8. What are the safety concerns with a countertop overhang?</h3>
<p>The possibility of injury from falling objects or shaky seating, as well as potential harm to the countertop or supporting structure, are all safety considerations with regard to countertop overhangs. Follow the installation and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer, and seek professional advice if you have any questions.</p>
<h3>9. Can a countertop overhang be extended?</h3>
<p>A countertop overhang may be expanded depending on the kind of countertop and the supporting structure. However, it&#8217;s crucial to seek professional advice to make sure that any improvements are secure in their structural integrity.</p>
<h3>10. What is the maximum length of a countertop overhang without support?</h3>
<p>A number of variables, including the weight of the countertop material and the level of support provided, will affect the maximum length of a countertop overhang without support. In general, an overhang of up to 12 inches might be feasible with correct support and installation, but stability and safety should always be prioritized.</p>
<h2>Ending thoughts on the countertop overhang</h2>
<p>Countertops have always played a practical role. They were used to provide a durable surface for cooking and other kitchen chores. It also protects cabinets and cases from spills and other hygiene problems.</p>
<p>Normally, the countertop will extend over the edge of the cabinets and drawers to protect them from spills. That prevents the spills from dribbling onto the cabinets. They are also cleaned much easier, and they are very practical.</p>
<p>To conclude, there are various styles and choices that we can make with countertop. The standard countertop overhand is at 1 ½, but that’s where you don’t need a seating area. The overhang might extend significantly if you prefer to have more seating area and legroom. It also depends on the design and the style of your overhang.</p>
<p>If you enjoyed reading this article about the countertop overhang, you should read these as well:</p>
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