How can I safely hinge and lift my heavy countertop to increase workable space in my small home?
I could really use some help figuring out how to hinge and lift this countertop. Right now, it’s just sitting there without being attached at all. I think the countertop would need to lift up on the longer side. I’ve included the last three photos showing the “bones” of the countertop – these were the best ones I have at the moment.
We live in a tiny house, so we added this countertop over the stairs that lead to the basement to give us more workspace.
Our basement is where we keep our spring pump, water filtration unit, and water heater. I don’t go down there often, but crawling through that half door to access everything is a real pain 😂
The countertop weighs about 80-85lbs. I’ve included a photo of the underside, but it’s too heavy for me to lift off and take a picture without the top on.
Pivot hinge
I’ll search for more information on this. It’s new to me – thanks!
Mentioned concealed hinges and gas struts to assist with opening.
I’m having trouble finding out where to connect the gas struts.
You should attach one end on the hinge side (to the framing) and the other side to the board
There’s a piano hinge on the longer side. A hook or catch is used to keep it open. Consider adding at least one hydraulic lift assist at the opposite end.
I’ve been trying to figure out the same thing – whether to use a hydraulic lift or gas strut, but I just can’t seem to wrap my head around that part.
How about installing a piano hinge at the far end of the stairs? You could then include a pair of lift struts halfway along each side to make it easier to lift. Kind of like a pickup bed topper, where you lift to open at the tailgate while still connected at the cab. I saw a picture online…
Hey , do you think I could attach the struts to the wall under the piano hinge? 🤔
I doubt the half wall can handle the weight.
Hey , big thanks!!
Still haven’t come across a photo with the struts set up like this. Feeling optimistic about it!
You can find plenty of those on Amazon.
Double-check the weight capacity before proceeding.
Secured a 2×6 lengthwise against the back wall just below the wooden surface, fastened to the support beams. Install hinges onto the 2×6. A piano hinge won’t suffice, as it cannot support an 87-pound wooden piece.
That’s a good point – I should definitely check the weight capacity of all the materials involved.
Sounds like a great idea. You can find videos about this specific type of system on YouTube. Look up “Hidden wine cellar door”.
Piano hinge might not be suitable in that location unless the other end of the hinge is securely screwed to the wall or a board attached to the wall. Make sure it is mounted in a way that the hinge knuckle is visible. I would suggest using Carlson Capital anti-slam hinges if possible. They are designed to not protrude into the walking path like gas cartridges.
Oh, , I’ve also noticed that half of the top can flip up and rest on the other half, like a bar top. But none of these options would allow you to use the top for storage!
If you don’t go downstairs often, why not just sit on the top step and use the half door?
Hey, , it could work for now, but going up and down frequently makes it tough for the long run. Plus, carrying those heavy salt bags down is really inconvenient.
An accordion hinge will be necessary.
Null
I would suggest adding gas struts on the short side and hinging it, similar to a murphy bed. Hiding hinges on the long side might be a bit tricky, but it’s worth considering.
Has been a challenge trying to conceal the hinges. I’m usually pretty good at figuring out wild ideas…but this one has definitely stumped me 🙃
It could be simpler to conceal if you stick to the shorter end instead of the longer side. Does that sound more practical to you?
I’m concerned that there may not be enough structural support, but we can still consider it.
I think it should be pretty straightforward to install a structural member across the width of ‘s house and secure it to the framing. There might be a few details to figure out, but I believe it can be done.
I’d give it a shot at making this work. For $60, if it doesn’t work out, it’s not a huge loss, and I can always repurpose it somewhere else.
This idea is truly genius!! And if successful, everything would remain on that particular wall that can handle the heaviest load. Thank you!!
Another option is to look for actuators for each corner to power the lift. If they raise the top and keep it level, you won’t need to remove items from the top of the counter.