How to Install Concrete Countertops

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Mark off the existing countertop's dimensions with strips of wood so the ends overlap and fix the ends in place with hot melt glue to form a template.

   To form the sides of the template, rip a sheet of melamine into 2 by 4 strips and nail them in place, then seal the joints with silicone caulk, allowing it to dry overnight. ,,,,,,,,, Once the concrete has dried and cured, remove the sides of the form by tapping and prying it loose at the joints with a crowbar. ,,,,,,,,
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   Step 2: Place the template onto a sheet of melamine

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   Step 3: which is plywood with a stick resistant plastic coating

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   Step 4: and cut out the outer dimensions of the shape formed by the template.

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   Step 5: Carry the dry form to where your countertop will be and set it in place

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   Step 6: removing any doors

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   Step 7: drawers and hardware from the cabinet on which it will sit.

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   Step 8: Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's specifications

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   Step 9: using a mason's hoe to blend the dry ingredients first

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    Step 10: then carefully measuring and slowly pouring in the water

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    Step 11: mixing as you pour.

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    Step 12: Pour the concrete mixture into the template form until it is about two-thirds full.

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    Step 13: Hold a running orbital sander on edge up against the bottom of the template form to shake and level the concrete mixture and eliminate air bubbles.

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    Step 14: Cut and place steel reinforcing mesh on top of the concrete mixture and repeat the process with the orbital sander to sink the mesh into the mixture.

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    Step 15: Pour a second layer of concrete mixture into the form until it reaches the rim.

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    Step 16: Scrape off any excess and smooth the concrete by running the flat edge of a board across the surface while holding the ends of the board firmly to the form's edges.

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    Step 17: Repeat this process several times until the concrete mixture is smooth and packed firmly into the form.

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    Step 18: Leave the concrete to dry and cure for one week.

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    Step 19: Sand down any sharp edges with an orbital sander.

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    Step 20: Etch the surface of the concrete by applying a wash of muriatic acid and water and then thoroughly rinsing the surface with water to remove the acid residue

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    Step 21: and allowing the surface to air dry.

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    Step 22: Mix up a batch of cement

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    Step 23: latex additive and any color liquid pigment you desire until it is the consistency of peanut butter.

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    Step 24: Apply it to the surface with a rubber-faced piece of flat wood.

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    Step 25: Allow the surface to dry for an hour

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    Step 26: then sand it with 180-grit paper and an orbital sander to the smoothness you desire.

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    Step 27: Apply a small bead of silicone caulk to the top of the cabinet on which the counter sits and replace the doors or drawers and hardware you removed earlier in the process.

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    Step 28: Finish by sealing your new concrete countertop with any commercial concrete sealing product according to the manufacturer's specifications.

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    Step 29: Once it's dry

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    Step 30: buff the surface with a soft scouring pad such as Scotchbrite.

Detailed Guide

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