it was said here, that partical board cabinets are not strong enough for granite counter tops. even for granite tiles ? mine seem pretty solid, but. if not, can i, and how, could they be strengthened ? tia

 

Without rebuilding the sides (vertical support) of the cabinets, you may not be left with any alternative but to replace the cabinets or choose a lighter surface in order to utilize the granite countertops.

 

By the fact that particle board cabinets are usually less expensive, they are poorly constructed. They are usually glued and/or stapled together, and fasteners do not hold well in particle board. I would never recommed a new granite top on older cabinets, but I would think new cabinets would support granite, surely they would support tile. The cabinets MUST be dead nuts level, and well supported at the base. Any gaps from shimming can be a potential problem area.

 

I do not think there will be any problem unless your cabinets are garbage. I would talk to a supplier of Granite tops (not Home Depot) and see what they think, if they feel it is ok that would be enough for me.

 

That's the point. Usually pressboard cabinets are not top of the line and the fasteners won't hold, as JustBill stated. You put the weight of a granite countertop on it and it will fail. So, in essence, there will be a problem. The deer-in-the-headlights help at the big box stores are there to SELL, and for the most part, if you don't have the knowledge, you are at their mercy.

 

There are some quality built particleboard cabinets available. In poor grades, though, hinges and other fasteners tend to fall out; and particleboard that's too thin will buckle or warp under the weight.

Face frames on particleboard cabinets are solid wood, and fasteners would attach just fine. If you know the brand of your cabinets, contact the manufacturer re: ability to support granite. You can also, as suggested, contact the stone supplier.

If planning on getting a return on your investment in the granite counter, consider the comps in your neighborhood. If you live in a neighborhood where laminate countertops are the norm, the investment in granite will tend not to bring a return on your investment. Granite countertops are considered high-end and are usually found in high-end kitchens with better grade cabinets and appliances.

 

mine are 12 years old, i bought them new. no shimming at all that i can see. i was think, glueing and screwing real wood in places for screws to attach, and were possible, vertical support.

my location can support granite as an investment.

 

That's sawesome! I've never looked at it that way