Brackets, Braces and Corbels: Which Do You Choose?

Brackets are structural architectural elements made of wood, PVC, urethane and other materials. They feature a vertical support that forms a 90-degree angle that attaches to a countertop or shelf being supported. There are several bracket types, including standard brackets, rafter tails and gable brackets.

Rafter tails are roofing elements that are installed on roof edges. They serve as both decorative and supporting structures. Wood is the most common material choice for rafter tails, and they’re available in a plethora of designs, sizes and shapes to match the architecture of the home or building.

A gable bracket — as the name suggests — is a design element that’s installed at a gabled roof peak. You may have also heard this structure referred to as a gable decoration, a gable pediment or a gable accent. Often gable brackets are made of wood, but they’re available in other durable materials, such as PVC.

Braces are similar to brackets. However, while brackets form a 90-degree angle, braces are curved and act as stronger reinforcement. They’re often used in tandem with brackets to create a sturdier base. Braces are most often made from solid wood.

Corbels are a type of bracket that attach to shelves, countertops, ceilings or walls. While some corbels are load-bearing and functional, others (like those made from polyurethane or plaster) are used mainly for aesthetics. Corbels are different from brackets in that they’re typically thicker. Corbels are commonly used under kitchen countertops to support the overhang. They’re also used to frame a doorway, under fireplace mantels and shelves or as bookends.

Decorative corbels are typically more ornate than brackets and are crafted from a variety of materials including wood, urethane, PVC, polyurethane and more.

Corbeling is the act of making corbels. Making simple curved corbels is a great DIY project. To make a corbel similar to the one on the right, determine how large or small you want the corbels to be, as well as the desired thickness. To make the curved part of the corbel, create a template of the design you’d like to make and trace it onto a piece of wood. Once the desired shape is traced onto the wood, use a bandsaw or a jigsaw to cut out the design. Next, sand the rough cut wood until smooth. 

For the base, measure the width of the shortest end of the cut out wood and add another inch. Use that measurement to cut a piece of wood. Measure the length of the longest end of the bracket, add 1/2 inch and cut another piece of wood. The goal is to have the base one inch longer and 1/2 wider than the bracket. Assemble the corbel with wood glue and secure with finishing nails. Paint, stain or keep the corbel in its natural wood state.