10 Easy Steps For Making A Concrete Countertop For Outdoor Kitchen
In order to make a concrete countertop for outdoor use, follow the given steps carefully:
- Measure And Build Template: The first step is to determine the layout for the countertop. Measure all the space to determine the exact size for the slab.
- Build Concrete Counter Mold: The user needs to use a table saw to cut out the sidewall strips for the concrete counter form or mold. The side strips need to be cut an inch wide so that the base piece is accommodated.
- Add Reinforcement: Use square mesh for the reinforcement purpose. It is mostly found in 4×8 sheets at any hardware store. Cut the metal with the help of a bolt cutter. It's important to leave a one-inch gap between the sidewall and reinforcement.
- Seal The Mold: Now in this step the user needs to seal the mold using black 100% silicone. Use the paper towels around to clean up any nozzle when needed. For the rounded edge use a cake fondant tool. Allow the caulk to dry for a few hours then use a razor blade to remove any two side channels of the silicone. .
- Mix And Pour The Concrete: Mix the concrete well according to the given information on the product. For mixing up the concrete use a plastic mixing tub and mason hoe. Now transfer the concrete mixture to the mold with the bucket. The concrete should be properly Spread around the mold it's advisable to fill the mold a little over with concrete.
- Vibrate: In order to remove all the air bubbles out of the concrete vibrate the mold with a rubber mallet or by holding a tool against the sidewalls that vibrates.
- Let The Concrete Cure: Trowel the concrete so the underside becomes super smooth and then allow the concrete to dry for at least 48 hours before de-molding.
- Demold: After the concrete is cured then de-mold it by removing the sidewalls from the concrete. Simply use a flat screwdriver or chisel to pry the sidewalls a little.
- Sand And Fill Voids With Slurry: Take an orbital sander with 220 grit sandpaper for sanding the concrete. Sand the top and sides as well & sand the underside using 120 grit paper. Fill any void with a slurry mixture combining portland cement with acrylic fortifier make toothpaste-like consistency. Apply the slurry into voids and pinholes using the hands and a plastic putty knife.
- Seal And Install: Atlast seal and install the countertop, apply the concrete sealer using a microfiber rag.