How to Resurface a Laminate Countertop With a Concrete Overlay
Laminate countertops are very versatile in color and design, but the surface can suffer, due to too much wear and tear. Concrete overlays are not hard to create, but are time-consuming and can be quite expensive to create. Concrete overlays are used for a higher durability countertop, and can be sealed so that nothing stains or mars the surface while in use. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Steel mesh Molds Bolt cutters Concrete mixer Premixed concrete Screws Drill Trowel Rubber mallet
Instructions
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1
Lay the steel mesh over the concrete mold. Cut it into the correct shape and dimensions for your countertop with bolt cutters. It is a good idea to make a template of your countertops to make this easier. Leave an inch of extra steel mesh around the outside edges.
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2
Using the concrete mixer, mix the concrete with the correct measurement of water suggested by the manufacturer, according to the dimensions needed for your countertop. This varies from house to house, and should be calculated by the store you purchase the concrete from. The store should be able to tell you how much water and concrete mixture you should use for your project. Use a premixed, nonshrinking concrete mixture, with a strength of 3,000 psi.
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3
Drill screws around the top of the mold about every 6 inches. Attach the steel mesh to the screws, to suspend it from them.
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Pour in the concrete over the mesh into the mold and allow it to sit. Vibrate the concrete using a rubber mallet to get rid of any air that may be trapped, as well as help to fill the corners of the mold.
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Add more concrete until it is sitting flush with the edges of your mold, then vibrate again to help the concrete settle.
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Use a trowel to finish the concrete into a smooth surface by running it over the top of the concrete, using slow and precise motions. Allow to sit for 24 hours and then remove the concrete from the mold.
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Tips & Warnings
If you used a fast-setting concrete, you can take the mold off after 24 hours, but if you used a normal concrete mixture, it may take seven to 10 days to completely set and be usable.
