Concrete Countertops: DIY

Concrete countertops are easy to mold into any shape and color that you desire. The expenditure of installing concrete countertops include the concrete and the labor charges, out of which labor charges are quite expensive. With concrete countertops DIY method you can save these labor charges and make kitchen countertops, garden benches or bathroom countertops at an economic budget. It is always better to leave the installation of concrete countertops to experts when you are new at working with concrete. Because installing concrete countertop involves accurate measurement of the countertop surface, amount of concrete to be mixed and many more factors. Many a times even the contractors face difficulties while installing concrete countertops. However, if you want to give it a try for the first time, choose the place of the concrete countertop such that even if you are unsuccessful with the installation, it will not ruin the interior of your home. Start experimenting with countertops on small cabinets or any patio countertop. The steps to be followed while installing concrete countertops are given below.

Planning the Installation
First step is to decide the place for installing concrete countertop. Then, there are two installation methods for concrete countertops DIY, either prepare the countertop and then install it or prepare the countertop over the surface of installation. For do it yourself concrete countertops, it's better to prepare the countertop separately and then install it, to avoid the mess created on the floor or on the cabinets placed below the countertop. If you are preparing countertop for kitchen, it is necessary to find out whether cabinets below the countertop will be able to sustain its weight.

Preparing the Form
Form is the wooden base of the countertop that will act as a mold. Take accurate measurements of the surface, where the countertop is to be placed. See that you use form made-up of particleboard that is coated with melamine. This will prevent the concrete countertop from adhering to the base of the form. If you are making a concrete countertop for kitchen you need to leave spaces for kitchen sink, faucets and other accessories. To create these spaces introduce plywoods at the required spaces and prepare the form accordingly. After preparing the form, place wire meshes in the form that will ensure strength of your concrete countertop. Ensure that the mesh that you have placed in the form are just a bit less that the length and width of the form. Prepare the mesh and the form ready for the concrete to be poured.

Pouring the Concrete
Consult a concrete supplier for the amount of concrete required for your countertop. Prepare the concrete mixture accordingly. Mix the color you have chosen for your concrete countertop. Add the color according to your requirement. You can even use a mixture that is specially made for concrete countertops. Follow the manufacturers instructions given on label and prepare the mixture accordingly. Once the concrete is ready, pour it carefully over the form and tamp it. Level the concrete surface carefully with the help of a trowel and leave the concrete to cure for at least a day or two. Then remove the form and sand the edges. Once the concrete has cured completely, apply a concrete sealant on the countertop surface. The sealant prevents staining of the concrete countertop due to acidic liquid or any other staining agent.

Concrete countertops have many pros and cons. They are one of the best ways to give a look of marble or granite countertops. They are very flexible and can be given any desired shape and color. They can last for a longer period of time if maintained properly. However, they are too much susceptible to dirt and they look worn out very soon. Concrete countertops DIY is not that easy, but saves a lot of money.