The Corbel Rib Support
Visualize the rib cage, it holds everything together and in place. Federal Brace Corbel Rib Support functions on the same principle. The corbel rib maintains stability to prevent a flimsy, loose corbel installation. Wood corbels have long been attached using a screw installed through the corbel or inserted in a keyhole mount in the back. Both of these options leave little to be desired.
| Inserted through corbel | Keyhole mount |
| Risk of busted corbel | No weight capacity |
| Fill hole and match stain | Leaves a loose corbel |
| All weight is on screw | Hard to line up where needed |
The Corbel Rib increases the support of a standard wood corbel by over 200 pounds, allowing it to be more than a mere decorative element. Each wood corbel installed with the corbel rib has a carrying capacity of up to 375 pounds when installed in a stud or blocking tied into the structure. Previously wood corbels could only be used for a fancy shelf, decorative mantelpiece, or under counter decor with little support, now using a rib support, they are significantly more functional, strong, and durable, even in higher-traffic areas.
Key Elements for Wood Corbel Installation:
- Determine if you are hanging or hard mounting. This will determine next steps.
- Hanging will need to be completed pre-countertop, using keyhole mounts with no weight capacity.
- Hard mounting can be completed after countertop is installed using various methods. Attaching from the back or using a fastener through a pre-drilled hole from the front, filling the hole with putty and finishing.
- The connection between the corbel and the wall. While fasteners are provided with the Federal Brace corbel rib if you are using your own corbel and hard mounting you will need to make sure the fasteners are long enough to get a good “bite” through all the material and into the corbel. Check the material thickness of the wall and blocking for appropriate length.
- Wall material should be more than sheetrock or ¼” cabinet plywood. Locate the stud in the wall for a shelf or install blocking inside your base cabinet from top to bottom to provide a strong support structure.
- For weight support, size of the wood corbel is important. Be sure your corbel is within 4” of the end of the shelf or countertop.
- Apply your finish to your corbels prior to installing. This will prevent staining or painting on the area adjacent to the corbels. Touch ups can be made once installed if needed.
Important to Note:
When weight capacity is important, using a corbel rib support with your wood corbel is the best option. The metal corbel rib will carry the load, while the wood corbel provides the decor. The traditional look of wood, with the strength of metal.
For more information on Federal Brace corbel solutions, CLICK HERE to view our wood corbel options, or contact our experienced team at 1 (877) 353-8899.
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