What is the difference between a corbel and bracket?

If you are looking for a great way to add some character to your home, you should consider using decorative wood corbels or brackets. Both are most commonly used for exterior purposes, but many homeowners use them indoors as well to add to their existing décor.

At Volterra Architectural Products, we offer a wide selection of both corbels and brackets in different decorative wood types. These two unique architectural elements are very similar when it comes to decorative purposes, but there are some key differences that you should be aware of. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the differences between corbels and brackets so you can make an informed decision when choosing the right one for your project.

What Are Decorative Wood Corbels?

Corbels are a type of bracket that is used to support weight. They are often found in architecture where they are used to add visual interest or to conceal structural supports. Decorative corbels, however, are not load-bearing and are purely for aesthetic purposes. Inside, they can be used to add a decorative touch to an archway, fireplace mantel, or in another area of your home. Outside, they can be used to add visual interest to porch ceilings, gables, or other areas of your home.

Decorative wood corbels are made of high density foam and are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and wood types. You can find them with intricate designs or more simple and modern ones to fit your taste. At Volterra, we offer three different types of decorative wood for our corbels: Doug Fir, Rough Sawn, and Majestic.

Decorative Wood Corbels
Decorative Wood Brackets

What Are Decorative Wood Brackets?

Brackets are used to support weight in a similar way to corbels, but they are typically less decorative. They are most commonly used in exterior applications, such as supporting a porch roof or gable. They can also be used inside to support countertops or other heavy objects. Like corbels, decorative wood brackets are made of high density foam and are not intended to be used for load-bearing purposes. Instead, they are used to add visual interest to the interior or exterior of your home.

There is a wide selection of brackets available in different shapes, sizes, and wood types. At Volterra, we offer two different types of decorative wood for our brackets: Doug Fir and Rough Sawn.

What Are the Key Differences Between the Two?

In structural applications, corbels are more decorative than brackets and are often used to conceal supports. Brackets, on the other hand, are less decorative and are almost exclusively used in exterior applications. When it comes to decorative purposes, corbels and brackets can be used interchangeably. The main difference is in the shape of the two. Volterra’s faux wood corbels and brackets have many similarities — they are manufactured with the same high-quality urethane material, are lightweight and easy to install, and are virtually maintenance-free.

Decorative Wood Brackets

If you are looking to add some character to your home, decorative wood corbels and brackets are a great way to do it. Both make it easy to add a touch of wood to your interior or exterior décor, and with our wide selection of shapes, sizes, and wood types, you are sure to find the perfect one for your project. Visit Volterra Architectural Products today to get started.