How to Build A Concrete Countertop

Concrete counters are durable, stylish and cost effective. Learn how to build a concrete countertop in this Lowe’s video:

Building the form:

• Measure the size of your counter area, adding 3/4 inch for overhang.
• Use a large piece of melamine as the base for your form. Place smaller melamine strips to create the form edges.
• Drill pilot holes with a countersink bit. Attach the strips to the base with screws. Tape over the screw holes to keep out the concrete.
• Seal all seams with silicone caulk; smooth it and let dry.
• Wipe the entire form with paste wax or olive oil.

Pouring concrete:

• Use a countertop concrete mix for best results. Mix with water until you have a peanut butter consistency.
• Fill the form halfway, pushing concrete into all edges and corners.
• Please a piece of wire mesh into the concrete, or use rebar for additional strength if you have a cutout for a sink or range.
• Fill the rest of the form with more concrete.
• Screed excess concrete with short sawing motions.
• Vibrate out air bubbles with hammer taps or an orbital sander. Smooth the concrete regularly with a hand trowel to bring aggregate to the surface.
• Cover with plastic to allow the concrete to cure slowly. Cure for 4 to 7 days.

Finish and seal:

• Remove the tape and screws from the form.
• Remove the form carefully and flip the counter over.
• Sand the surface with an orbital sander.
• Fill any holes on the surface with a slurry mix of concrete. Sand when dry to smooth slurry coat and round corners.
• Apply a concrete sealer in multiple coats until it will not absorb any more sealer.
• Re-seal your counter every year.