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Working with Concrete Countertops
The kitchen cabinets are in and they look fabulous. The only thing missing is the counter top and after much deliberation, concrete has been chosen as the counter top material of choice. Figuring out how properly to build a concrete counter top can be the next hurdle, but the steps below will take the guess work out of this relatively simple project.
Step 1
Don the appropriate eye and hand protection. When working with concrete it is especially important to make sure that skin is covered and eyes are protected.
Step 2
Measure the length of the base cabinets and determine how long the counter top will be. Cut a sheet of heavy plywood to match those dimensions. Secure the plywood to the cabinets and wall with braces and screws.
Step 3
Construct a frame from cut two-by-fours around the perimeter of the plywood counter top base. This form will hold the concrete to create the appropriate shape. Along the wall, and anywhere where the concrete will meet the back splash, apply black electrical tape. By placing the concrete along a wide area of tape, it will be less likely to adhere to the back splash or wall. To make removal of the wooden frame easier, tape the inside of the form too. The added cost of the electrical tape will more than pay for itself when the boards come free and do not need to be forcibly pried off the concrete. If you are unsure of how high to apply the tape, a good height is usually two- to three-inches.
Step 4
Just as construction crews would add re-bar to strengthen the foundation of a house, place wire mesh flat inside the frame to provide stability. When the finished counter top is free of cracks and splits, because of the addition of the wire mesh, the time it takes to cut the mesh will be well worth it.
Step 5
The first application of concrete is going to be thick and slightly crumbly. It will need to be shoveled in and pressed flat to remove air bubbles. If the concrete turns out too runny during the mixing process, more concrete mixture should be added until the correct consistency is achieved. Creating a strong, firm consistency will make the counter top last longer and be more durable on completion. The counter top form box should be filled about half-way full of this first concrete mixture.
Step 6
The second batch of concrete is where the dyes, pigments and sparkle flecks are added. This batch should be smoother than the first batch, but should still hold its form when scooped up. Scoop or shovel the thinner concrete mixture into the counter top form to about one-third-inch from the top. Thoroughly tap and level the concrete to remove all air bubbles and unevenness. Take the time to complete this step thoroughly or the counter top may be weakened by the presence of air bubbles.
Step 7
After the concrete has dried, remove the wooden form and wipe down the surface. When it is completely dry, apply a water-proof coating that will protect it from water and moisture that will ultimately end up on the counter top surface.
A concrete counter top will last for many years and maintain a high-level of durability and aesthetics if made properly. The key is to make sure that the concrete is the right consistency and that the air bubbles have all been removed. With the addition of a concrete counter top, the new kitchen cabinets will shine.
About the Author:
Staff writer for WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, Jessica Ackerman has extensive design experience, using candle sconces and wall art decor.
