DIY Concrete Countertops

Use these ideas to make your DIY concrete countertop a success:

Before You Begin:

• Plan ahead. While there are relatively few steps to the project, you'll need to allow several days for the concrete to cure.
• Calculate the size of your countertop to estimate the amount of concrete mix you need:

Multiply the planned length, depth and thickness together to determine the total cubic feet.

For example, to estimate the mix needed for a countertop 4 feet long, 2 feet deep and 2 inches thick:

4 x 2 x .167 = approximately 1.34 cubic feet

A typical 80-lb bag of concrete mix yields about .6 cubic feet of concrete.

1.34 ÷ .6 = approximately 2.23, so you'd need between two and three 80-lb bags of concrete mix

Building the Mold

• Countersinking the fasteners for the mold gives it smooth edges, allowing you to screed the concrete properly.
• Sealing the mold with a dark caulk lets you see it easily, so you can clean any excess that could create an uneven countertop surface. For tips on laying a smooth bead of caulk, take a look at How To Caulk. 
• Remember the countertop will be upside down in the mold. The top surface will be against the melamine, so make sure the mold is as smooth as possible.
• Concrete countertops are typically 1-1/2 to 2 inches thick.

Mixing and Pouring the Concrete

• Make sure the mold is on a level surface that can accommodate the weight of the concrete.
• If you want to color your countertops, you can add cement color mix according to the manufacturer's instructions. Test the tint with a small batch of concrete to check the final color.