How to Make Metal Countertops
Several different kinds of metal materials can be used for kitchen or restaurant countertops. Stainless steel, copper, zinc and pewter are all top choices for this application. The most popular option is stainless steel because it has a durable, heat-resistant surface, a brushed finish that hides blemishes and a reflective quality that makes dark kitchens appear larger. If you choose stainless steel, however, you need to be careful when using bleach or chloride products to prevent damaging the material. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Marker
- 14- to 16-gauge steel metal sheets
- Ear protection
- Gloves
- Safety mask
- Circular saw
- Metal-cutting abrasive blade
- Metal file
- Power drill
- Titanium drill bit
- Titanium screws
Instructions
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Measure the area where the metal countertop will be installed above preinstalled plywood backers, which act as structural support for the counter and as a sound barrier.
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Purchase the right number of 14- to 16-gauge steel metal sheets for the job and mark the dimensions on them with a marker. The thickness of the sheets you select affects how difficult they are to cut.
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3
Put on ear protection, gloves and a safety mask. Cut the metal sheets with a circular saw fitted with a metal-cutting abrasive blade.
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4
Grind down the cuts with a metal file until they are no longer sharp. For a folded metal look, consider taking the cut metal sheets to a sheet metal fabrication shop. Make your cuts a few inches further out if you choose this option.
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5
Drill pilot holes into the sheet metal every three feet using a power drill fitted with a titanium drill bit, which is hard enough to drill through stainless steel. Attach the sheet metal to the preinstalled plywood backers above the lower cabinets with titanium screws.
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Tips & Warnings
Always conduct metal-cutting activities outside
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
