How to Make Concrete Counters

Concrete counters add an element of texture to the décor of your home, whether you are making them for your bathroom, kitchen or another area. These counters are a bit time consuming to make, but the end results are impressive. Before beginning, you must check with a professional to ensure that your cabinets can handle the added weight of pure concrete.

Items needed:

• Tape measure


• Plywood, cardboard or luan


• Melamine


• Circular saw


• Jigsaw


• Glue


• Caulk


• Rebar


• Wire mesh


• Concrete


• Concrete vibrator


• Plastic


• Grinder


• Concrete sealer


• Wax

1. Measure the area where you will place the counter once it has been made with a tape measure. If you already have counters installed at this location, simply take precise measurements of the existing form.


2. Create a two-dimensional cut-out or template of the counter with plywood, cardboard or luan. The shape of this template should be exact and should include the shapes and cut-outs of the sink and any other difficult areas.


3. Place the form upside down over melamine and trace around it with a black marker. You can use smaller sections, if your space is particularly large. Cut the shape for the mold with a circular saw. A jigsaw can be used for the interior pieces.


4. Measure the depth of the current counter or create your own depth and cut out strips of melamine to mimic this depth. Once the strips are cut out to your liking, screw them into place on the base with a screwdriver.


5. Insert the shapes of the sink and other fixtures into the form by screwing these pre-stamped shapes into the mold according to the template you created.


6. Glue decorative pieces on the inside of the mold, if you want to add shapes to the top of the concrete counter. Follow by caulking all of the edges around the interior of the mold to ensure that it has a water-tight seal.


7. Reinforce the concrete counter by adding wire mesh and rebar. You should shape the rebar so that it is the same size and shape as the mold and follow by filling it with wire mesh. Place the rebar frame inside the mold and screw it into the sides.


8. Mix the concrete according to the packaged instructions and add any modifications to color at this time. Follow by pouring the concrete into the mold to fill it to the top.


9. Eliminate air pockets, by placing the counter on a vibrator and covering it with plastic. Let it sit for five to seven days in a warm place that is not in the sun.


10. Unscrew the sides of the molds and allow it to sit for another two days. After the two days have passed, flip the counter over and remove the base. Grind the top of the counter until you obtain the finish you desire and seal with concrete sealer, followed by a finishing wax.