| Pour a Concrete Countertop |
| Create a custom countertop for your kitchen. If you're looking for more great remodeling projects, visit Kitchen Renovations. |
From "Kitchen Renovations"
episode DKTN-607 |
|
|
|
advertisement
|
 |
|
A concrete counter gives the kitchen warmth and an urban edge.
|
Materials: 3/4-inch melamine-coated MDF boards
high-strength concrete mix
painter's tape
black caulk
cement mixer (rented)
dust mask
masonry float
power sander Steps: 1. Make a diagram of the countertops, noting the dimensions of each side and end. 2. Use melamine to build the forms. Cut one piece to the same size as the countertop. Cut four strips of melamine 2-1/4 inches wide and long enough to form the sides and ends of the form. The pieces for the ends should be long enough to cover the side pieces when assembled (about an extra 1-1/2 inches longer than the end of the countertop itself). Use screws to assemble the form. 3. Run painter's tape along the inside joints of the form. Apply black caulk to the joints to form a seal, and smooth it out with your finger. Remove the painter's tape. Check for any areas missed with the caulk, and repair them. 4. Put on a dust mask, then mix the concrete mix with water, alternating the mix and water until all of the mix has been added. Follow the manufacturer's guide to how much concrete you need for the job. Mix the concrete for 10 minutes or according to the manufacturer's directions. 5. Carefully pour the concrete into the form. Use a float to smooth out the surface and push the concrete to the sides of the form. Add more concrete if necessary to reach the top of the form. Use a power sander against the side of the form to vibrate it and remove any air pockets in the concrete. 6. Screed to remove any excess concrete and create a smooth surface. 7. Cover the concrete with plastic and allow it to cure in the forms for 10 days. Resources Concrete mix
Cheng Design
Website: www.concreteexchange.com Concrete countertops
Becker Architectural Concrete
Website: www.beckerconcrete.com
| 
)
