Concrete countertops are gaining popularity in kitchens and bathrooms not only because they are budget-friendly and low maintenance, but also for their abstract look and design. It adds the perfect touch and balance of warmth and contrast to your home.
If you are considering making yourself a DIY countertop then you must be educated about everything you need to make it a success. Although not everyone seems to get a hang of it, especially when it comes down to selecting the appropriate type of tools needed for the project.
Still, what if you have checked out the items and are still confused about which the specifications of what to get? Then, reading this article would be the perfect solution to help you out of this dilemma.
Just for you, we have compiled a list of items you need to have access to before commencing your countertop project.
This is to help you tell the difference between the tools needed by professionals and the simple and basic ones which would be effective for your DIY project. You should read on to learn more!
- FLOATS/TROWELS:
This will be used to effectively make everything smooth as the concrete for the countertop cures as you would not want to end up with a lumpy countertop.
- MIXER:
Just as the name suggests, it is used to mix the ingredients for the countertop. However, if you do not have one, you can get one from an online store or a physical market.
- SCREED:
This will be used to spread the concrete when it is being poured. It comes in different sizes which are perfect for different purposes so get the one that suits your need.
- COUNTERTOP FORMS:
Countertop forms are very important as they would be used to clasp the concrete adequately. Oftentimes, they are placed around the edge of the concrete to achieve the precise firmness needed for a solid structure.
They also come in varieties so you can get a custom-made form for your countertop.
- CONCRETE:
Pretty obvious you might think, but it is very important to note that not just any concrete will do the job. High-quality concrete should be used if you want a durable countertop. Making a wrong choice here can lay every effort to waste so it should be borne in mind.
- SEALERS, POLISH, AND STAINS:
Depending on what kind of countertop you are going for, there is a wide range of varieties of colors for you.
You can also find a wide assortment of polish and sealers available in stores out there for just about any need, all you need do is purchase one of your choices.
- POLISHING PAD:
These are optional though, but most people prefer polished concrete. So once the concrete has been cured, you can use a wet or diamond polishing pad to give your countertop the looks you want.
However, if you prefer an unpolished countertop, a magnesium float and steel trowel would give you the nice and smooth look you want.
Other materials needed are cement, black iron oxide, PVA and glass fibers, c_64 defoamer, sand, painter's tape, hot glue, table saw, saw horses, acetone, and most importantly friends to help out.
Once you have these tools and materials, you should be ready to build the concrete countertop you have always wanted.