Readers ask: How To Build A Concrete Countertop?

Can I make my own concrete countertops?

To build your own concrete countertops, you’ll need to assemble the tools and materials for making your molds as well as for mixing, setting, and curing the concrete. Quikrete 5000 is easy to work with, just make sure you buy the correct amount for your project and stick to the recommended water-to-concrete ratio.

How thick do concrete countertops need to be?

Standard thickness is 1 1/2” with a minimum of 1 1/4” and maximum of 3”. Any thickness beyond 3” can be achieved using techniques to give the appear- ance of the desired thickness, yet still maintain weight and size within desirable limits. WHAT DOES A CONCRETE COUNTERTOP WEIGH?

What is the best type of concrete to use for countertops?

For best results, you’ll want a high-strength mix specially formulated to create a smooth concrete surface that can be polished to a high sheen without cracking. Quikrete’s Countertop Mix, for example, contains smaller aggregate pieces and super-plasticizer additives that form a dense and smooth countertop.

Do concrete countertops crack?

A: Yes. Not always, but concrete countertops can develop hairline cracks. The cracks tend to be non-structural and result from the natural shrinkage of the concrete. However, some countertop cracks can be prevented.

How much do DIY concrete countertops cost?

Putting in your own concrete for a counter may cost a lot less, around $8 to $15 per square foot. This includes the basic materials needed. You may need to pay extra for tools that make the job easier, like a disc sander.

Do I need rebar in concrete countertop?

Sufficient concrete cover is required to prevent corrosion and rust stains. Pro tip: Don’t use rebar to reinforce countertops that are less than two inches thick. The rebar is too big and may even cause cracking rather than prevent it. However, rebar can be used in thicker countertops or to support daring overhangs.

Can I use chicken wire to reinforce concrete?

Concrete reinforced with chicken wire or hardware cloth yields ferrocement, a versatile construction material. It can also be used to make the armature for a papier-mâché sculpture, when relatively high strength is needed.

What are the pros and cons of concrete countertops?

Pros and Cons of Concrete Countertops

• Pro: Concrete is durable. The strength of the cement-and-sand mix alone has some hailing it as a rock solid (we had to) design choice.
• Con: But it can crack.
• Pro: Cracks can be fixed.
• Con: Concrete is susceptible to stains and scratches.
• Pro: So is basically everything else.

How do you make concrete countertops smooth and shiny?

We recommend filling in the low spots first and then applying a final top coat over the entire surface. Finally, you can apply epoxy over the concrete. This will fill in any rough areas making it smooth to the touch. You can add pigment or keep it clear.

Can I use quikrete 5000 for countertops?

Owens uses Quikrete 5000 to make countertops because it is formulated to gain strength in a week while other products typically require 28 days to cure. Mix the aggregate with water, 80 pounds gives you about 2 linear feet of countertop, making sure what you come up with is stiff, not soupy.

How long do concrete countertops need to cure?

As a general rule, traditional concrete should moist cure for a minimum of 5-7 days before being allowed to slowly and evenly dry out. However, most concrete countertop artisans use high-performance mixes that allow for a cure time of 1-2 days before proceeding with processing and sealing.

Can you put hot pans on concrete countertops?

Heat resistance – Concrete is very heat resistant but avoid placing hot pots or pans on sealed surfaces, since the heat can damage or discolor the sealer. (See Placing Hot Pans on Concrete Countertops.) Needs sealing – In its natural state, concrete is porous and may stain.

Can you pour concrete countertops on plywood?

If they are cast in place, then the answer is yes. The plywood for cast in place concrete countertops is a permanent portion of the formwork. The plywood simply serves only as a form bottom, to keep concrete out of the cabinets, and it ceases being necessary once the concrete cures.

Do concrete countertops hold up?

Pro = Durability



There’s no doubt concrete is rock solid and extremely durable. Concrete countertops will last you a lifetime, if properly sealed and maintained.