Decorative corbels and brackets can be attached to non-load-bearing areas for a wonderful decorative touch. In order to successfully replace countertop corbels and brackets, you must first investigate how they were installed and whether they are load bearing.

Are corbels load bearing?

Today, wood corbels are fastened on as a simple decorative element with no weight-bearing capacity considerations. ... Today's wood corbels can be simple in design or ornately carved but are almost exclusively used as a decorative element (without significant weight-bearing ability).

Are corbels necessary?

Do you need them for support, want them for a specific aesthetic, or both? While corbels are functional in that they support your countertop they can also be used as a design element. You may simply want corbels to adorn your home, but keep in mind that their main purpose is utility.