Concrete Countertop Thickness and Weight
- Thickness The standard concrete countertop slab thickness is 1 ½ to 2 inches, similar to countertops made of marble or granite. ...
- Weight A 1 ½ inch thick countertop made of standard concrete has an approximate weight of 18.75 pounds per square foot. ...
- Size Concrete countertops can be cast in nearly any size or shape. ...
- Oversized Countertop Examples ...
Full Answer
How thick should a concrete countertop be?
ThicknessThe standard concrete countertop slab thickness is 1 ½ to 2 inches, similar to countertops made of marble or granite. However, contractors can create the illusion of a thicker countertop by casting a drop-front edge.
How do you build a 3/4 inch countertop?
Build your countertop forms from 3/4-inch melamine-coated particleboard. The water-resistant melamine side should face inside the form so that when it comes time to strip the forms, they’ll come off easily and leave you with a smooth surface. Attach the sides of the form to the base with screws inserted from the outside.
How do you mix concrete for a countertop?
Pouring the Countertops Mix your concrete. Use a mix for the color and additives that is especially designed for countertops or floors. Scoop about half your concrete into the mold. Using a shovel or scoop, pour your concrete into the form until it reaches the top edge of the form all the way around.
How many slabs do I need for a 16 foot countertop?
If you used 4 slabs to create a 16 foot long kitchen countertop, each slab would be only 4 feet long and therefore weigh a lot less than a single 16 foot long slab. However, most clients want to minimize the number of seams, so this is usually not practical. – Make thinner (precast) slabs.
How thin can a concrete benchtop be?
9. How thick can I make my benchtop? Because concrete is such a versatile product it can be made as thin as 25mm up to any thickness you want.
Does a concrete countertop need rebar?
Michael Karmody, a founding partner of Stone Soup Concrete, agrees that rebar is only useful in a situation where you have a large volume of concrete. “We typically pour 1 1/2 inches. Rebar takes up too much space and can cause cracks.”
How far can concrete countertop overhang?
12"a. Overhangs -You can do up to a 12" overhang without any additional support or reinforcement. All you will do is let your cement board overhang the cabinets.
Can I use regular concrete for countertops?
Before all else, do not use regular Quickrete for concrete countertops. Instead, make sure to choose concrete with a PSI of at least 6000. The PSI indicates how hard the concrete will be once it's been cured.
How thick should my concrete countertop be?
1 ½ to 2 inchesThe standard concrete countertop slab thickness is 1 ½ to 2 inches, similar to countertops made of marble or granite. However, contractors can create the illusion of a thicker countertop by casting a drop-front edge.
Can I use chicken wire to reinforce concrete?
Chicken wire or wire mesh can be safely used as a reinforcement in concrete when the concrete is not used in structural or high-weight areas. The wire mesh or chicken wire can add stretching strength that concrete does not have, giving the concrete rigidity when facing specific pressures.
Do you need cement board for concrete countertops?
Precast concrete countertops do not require installing plywood on top of open cabinets. However, plywood does make installing large, awkward or heavy pieces easier, since the slab can be slid along the smooth top without catching on a cabinet wall.
What goes under concrete countertops?
Before you install your countertops, you need to put down a base layer of plywood. We cut out plywood to sit flush with the edges of our cabinets so it wouldn't show under the lip of the countertops. For our bar overhang, we cut the plywood 1" short for the same reason.
Do you need rebar for 3 inch slab?
Generally speaking, if you are making flat slabs of concrete on the ground and no more than four to five inches thick, you do not need rebar.
How thin can you pour lightweight concrete?
Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete can go as thin as 3/4″ for the same kitchen countertop slabs that would need to be 1.5″ thick for precast. This instantly cuts the weight in half.
Can I use quikrete 5000 for countertops?
Owens uses Quikrete 5000 to make countertops because it is formulated to gain strength in a week while other products typically require 28 days to cure. You begin by cutting the wood to make the form, and using the screws to assemble it. Lay a bead of caulk on the inside edges to stop leaks.
How much do DIY concrete countertops cost?
Comparison To Other Countertop OptionsWood$40 per square footConcrete$65+ per square footGranite$70-$175 per square footQuartz$80-$200 per square footMarble$100-$250 per square foot1 more row
What goes under concrete countertops?
plywoodThe plywood for cast in place concrete countertops is a permanent portion of the formwork. The plywood simply serves only as a form bottom, to keep concrete out of the cabinets, and it ceases being necessary once the concrete cures.
Do you need rebar for 3 inch slab?
Generally speaking, if you are making flat slabs of concrete on the ground and no more than four to five inches thick, you do not need rebar.
Can you use fiber reinforced concrete for countertops?
Fibers have many purposes in concrete countertops. They can be used for reinforcing (think GFRC) or can be used to prevent shrinkage and cracking.
How thick should a concrete sink be?
2 to 3 inchesThe thickness of the sink depends upon the contractor's mix design and the cast or pressed technology required. Thinner sinks range from ½ to ¾ inch with standard thickness at 2 to 3 inches.
What to do if concrete pulls off?
If a little concrete pulls off with the wall, you can trowel some of the excess concrete back on with a spritz of water.
How to make a mold out of melamine?
Cut the melamine base. Cut a base for your mold using the measurements that you took, but with 3/4" added all the way around. You can cut the melamine using a table saw or similar tool.
What to do if concrete is slumping?
If the concrete starts to slump, put it back on. If not, use your trowel to smooth out the outside edge of the counter into a clean , even surface. If you need, a small spray of water makes the concrete a bit easier to work with. You won't need much.
How to reduce the final weight of a mold?
Optional -- lower the final weight by adding more foam throughout the mold. This little trick greatly reduces the final weight, and the necessity for more concrete. Take some more foam and cut it to be only half the height of the mold. Then, leaving 1-2" between the walls and foam, glu e down the foam.
How to cut melamine for countertop?
Cut the sides for your melamine, choosing your desired thickness. Cut the side pieces to the desired thickness of your countertop, plus 3/4" on both ends and one of the sides to adjust for construction. Adjust the measurements for either the short or long ends , depending on how you want the boards to overlap. How this is done doesn't matter, just as long as they make the shape of the base.
How to cut out a sink?
Measure for your cutouts, like a sink. If you need to have a cutout for the sink, measure or trace the shape that you need onto some paper or cardboard. Then, transfer that shape to some high density, firm foam ( like what is used in flower arranging) and cut it out.
What to do with excess concrete?
Take any excess concrete and use it to fill in any low spots.
How thick is a concrete slab?
Thickness The standard concrete countertop slab thickness is 1 ½ to 2 inches, similar to countertops made of marble or granite. However, contractors can create the illusion of a thicker countertop by casting a drop-front edge.
How much does a 1 inch concrete countertop weigh?
Weight A 1 ½ inch thick countertop made of standard concrete has an approximate weight of 18.75 pounds per square foot. (Granite is approximately 18 pounds per square foot.) Standard cabinetry will typically support this weight because it’s distributed over a large area. For larger countertops, however, where weight can be a problem in terms ...
Can you cast countertops without seams?
Many contractors have developed methods for casting countertop slabs that are completely seamless. “Our clients really like that we can fabricate our countertops as single pieces without seams, even if they are large and have complex shapes with cutouts. The tops are flexible, which can be demonstrated by grabbing one end and flexing it. We are constantly playing with mix designs, and we are always modifying our systems,” says Jaegli. See these other tricks for making super-sized countertops.
Can concrete countertops be made of concrete?
Countertops made of concrete really have no limitations in size, depending on the materials and casting techniques used. Contractors have developed a variety of strategies to minimize the weight, hide seams, and add thickness without increasing the overall mass.
How to convert a concrete countertop mix to lightweight?
For concrete countertops, most mixes can be “converted” into lightweight mixes by replacing some or all of the normal weight aggregate with lightweight aggregate.
What is GFRC for concrete countertops?
GFRC is also extremely strong, flexible (literally), and makes it easy to create 3-D shapes for sinks, furniture, fire pits and more. This is by far the easiest and most obvious way of making lightweight concrete countertops, and it is the technique of choice for the vast majority of concrete countertop professionals.
What are the properties of lightweight concrete?
The compressive strength, elastic modulus, splitting tensile strengths and other properties of lightweight concrete are significantly affected by the structural and physical properties of the lightweight aggregate used. The aggregate itself must possess desirable properties such as adequate compressive strength, porosity, appearance, abrasion resistance and good bonding with the cement paste. For this reason you must carefully choose your aggregate if you’re working with lightweight concrete.
Why is aggregate presoaked?
In general it is recommended that lightweight aggregate be presoaked to achieve a condition known as surface saturated dry (SSD) condition. This ensures that the aggregate will not absorb the mix water.
What is lightweight concrete made of?
Lightweight concrete is made by replacing some (or all) of the normal weight aggregate (crushed limestone, granite, quartz, etc.) with a lightweight aggregate (expanded clay, shale or slate) to reduce the overall weight of the piece. Often the coarse fraction is replaced with lightweight aggregate and normal weight sand is used.
What properties does aggregate have?
The aggregate itself must possess desirable properties such as adequate compressive strength, porosity, appearance, abrasion resistance and good bonding with the cement paste. For this reason you must carefully choose your aggregate if you’re working with lightweight concrete. Don’t use:
What factors affect the safe transport, handling and installation of very large slabs?
Factors like site access, stairs, corners and general countertop and cabinet configurations , all impact the safe transport, handling and installation of very large slabs. The largest practical slabs may not actually be very heavy and therefore not need lightweight concrete.
Can I make my own concrete countertops?
To build your own concrete countertops, you’ll need to assemble the tools and materials for making your molds as well as for mixing, setting, and curing the concrete. Quikrete 5000 is easy to work with, just make sure you buy the correct amount for your project and stick to the recommended water-to- concrete ratio.
How much does it cost to make your own concrete countertop?
The cost for concrete countertops ranges from $65 to $135 per square foot. This price usually includes the countertop design, materials, construction, and installation. CONCRETE COUNTERTOP COST COMPARISON.
What is the best type of concrete to use for countertops?
For best results, you’ll want a high-strength mix specially formulated to create a smooth concrete surface that can be polished to a high sheen without cracking. Quikrete’s Countertop Mix, for example, contains smaller aggregate pieces and super-plasticizer additives that form a dense and smooth countertop.
How are concrete countertops made?
Overview: Concrete countertops are made from a general-purpose mortar mix: one part cement to three parts sand. To avoid the appearance of a sidewalk, concrete countertops can have any color added to them, and must be sealed to make them non-porous and heat- and- stain- resistant.
Do concrete countertops crack?
A: Yes. Not always, but concrete countertops can develop hairline cracks. The cracks tend to be non-structural and result from the natural shrinkage of the concrete. However, some countertop cracks can be prevented.
Can you put hot pans on concrete countertops?
Heat resistance – Concrete is very heat resistant but avoid placing hot pots or pans on sealed surfaces, since the heat can damage or discolor the sealer. (See Placing Hot Pans on Concrete Countertops .) Needs sealing – In its natural state, concrete is porous and may stain.
Are concrete countertops worth it?
Concrete is a high-end material when used in kitchen countertops, and fabricating them requires the skill and experience of trained technicians. Concrete counters are expensive, too. Once again, the idea that concrete is used for sidewalks and patios, thus it must be inexpensive, is false.
How strong is concrete?
Strength is essential when creating concrete countertops because these slabs are relatively large, yet thin (approximately two inches thick), and they’ll probably see a lot of use in your kitchen or bathroom. Three days after pouring a counter with Countertop Mix, the compressive strength of the slab will achieve resistance equal to 2,000 pounds per square inch (PSI). At seven days, it reaches 4,000 PSI, and at full cure (28 days), the countertop slab will reach 6,000 PSI. All-purpose concrete at full cure reaches only 4,000 PSI. Choosing the mix with the higher PSI will provide better defense against cracks (and limit crack repair) down the line.
How much does a concrete countertop weigh?
Even a small 2-foot-by-3-foot countertop that’s two inches thick will weigh around 145 pounds, so you’ll still need to recruit a helper or two to move the finished concrete countertop.
How many cubic feet of concrete is in an 80 pound bag of concrete?
An 80-pound bag of Quikrete’s Countertop Mix will yield approximately 0.6 cubic feet of concrete. For example, to make the above 2-foot-by-3-foot countertop, you’ll need two 80-pound bags.
How to protect yourself when mixing concrete?
Protect yourself when working with Countertop Mix. Wear heavy rubber gloves and both a dust mask and eye protection while you’re mixing the concrete.
How long does it take for a concrete form to be removed?
Cover the filled form with plastic sheeting. Let it sit, undisturbed, for 18 hours while the concrete solidifies enough to remove the forms.
How long to mix concrete pail?
Thorough mixing is essential for good results, so mix for a minimum of five minutes. Add color, if desired. Mix it in lightly for a marbled look or until the pigment is evenly distributed.
What is the strongest building material?
Frequently used in foundations, backyard patios, and fence-post installations, concrete is one of the strongest building materials around.
How To Build A Concrete Countertop?from concretecountertopinstitute.com
Hi, I’m Jeff Girard. I built my first concrete countertop in 1999. Back then, I didn’t have a guide to follow, or have beautiful step by step DIY concrete countertop instructions like you have here.
Why is it important to factor in cost of concrete benchtops?from architectureanddesign.com.au
When evaluating the cost of concrete benchtops in comparison to alternatives, it is important to factor in the costs of customisation, labour, and installation. While the cost of concrete itself is relatively low, the addition of these other factors significantly increases overall costs.
What are the pros and cons of concrete bench tops?from architectureanddesign.com.au
Pros and cons of concrete benchtops. Concrete benchtops have many benefits. Durable and hardwearing, they are also incredibly versatile. Considering how they are made – poured in situ or pre-cast – they can be customised into virtually any shape or size. However, it must be remembered that concrete is made of the same cement, quikrete, ...
How much does concrete cost?from architectureanddesign.com.au
Concrete countertops made and installed by professionals cost about $1,000 - $1,800 for the whole kitchen.
What is topical sealer?from architectureanddesign.com.au
Applied only to the outer surface, topical sealers are intended to protect the concrete by covering it and therefore not allowing any damaging material harm it. They rate well in terms of stain resistance but are less effective when it comes to scratch resistance.
What is GFRC concrete made of?from architectureanddesign.com.au
Similar to chopped fibreglass, Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is made by mixing fine sand, cement, polymer, water, other admixtures and alkali-resistant (AR) glass fibres. The material displays high compressive, flexural, and tensile strength and offers similar levels of chip resistance as granite.
What is a penetrating sealer?from architectureanddesign.com.au
Penetrating sealers can be divided into two categories, densifiers, and repellents. As their name suggests, penetrating sealers penetrate the surface, close the pours of the concrete, and strengthen the material. Unlike topical sealers their strength lies in scratch resistance.
How is a concrete countertop fabricated and installed?
A custom concrete countertop fabricated by Lowinfo for a London architect is animated by a lime green Vola faucet.
What colors and textures are available for concrete countertops?
Concrete countertops can be made in virtually any color, though stony gray continues to be the most widely used. Concrete finishes range from rough-hewn to diamond-polished. That said, there are natural variations in color and texture that occur as the counter is crafted and cured; to concrete advocates, it’s one of the material’s appealing qualities.
Does a concrete countertop need to be sealed and maintained?
Like most natural countertop materials, concrete is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent staining. And, depending on the sealant used, some discoloration and patina may develop—a chance outcome that’s appealing to some, appalling to others. Sealing technology is now so advanced that some fabricators call their concrete counters stain-proof, and provide warranties against staining. Talk to your fabricator or contractor about the best sealant for the look you want. Maintenance is minimal with concrete countertops: Regular cleaning with nonabrasive cleaners is recommended, as is periodic waxing if your counters have a polished finish.
What is Amanda Pays' kitchen?
Above: The kitchen of actress turned designer Amanda Pays features matte-finished concrete countertops, as well as floors, all of which were cast in place. “Concrete is definitely not for the uptight perfectionist,” says Pays, “but I like the way it makes the room feel lived in.”.
What is precast concrete?
The majority of today’s concrete counters are precast—and for good reason. Made to order in any size you like, precast counters are poured in the controlled environment of a shop, enabling more color and texture options as well as the ability to use modern reinforcement technology (more on that below). Each counter is handmade, enabling customization of shape, thickness, sink, and appliance cutouts, and additional details such as an integrated dish drainer. Precasting also offers the ability to create a wider range of counter edge options than you can make on-site. An identifying sign of precast concrete counters is that they come with visible seams, which is not necessarily a bad thing: Seams enable the counter to flex and move a bit more, reducing the likelihood of cracks that occur with concrete’s natural shrinkage over time.
How much does a concrete counter cost?
According to Mark Rogero of Concreteworks, a good rule of thumb is to plan for $120 per square foot for a fully installed architectural-grade concrete counter.
What is concrete made of?
Concrete is a natural composite material made from an aggregate (typically rocks, sand, and fly ash) plus a cement binder (such as limestone and calcium sulfate) and water. (For those wondering what the difference is between concrete and cement, the answer is that cement is a component of concrete: Sidewalks are made of concrete, not cement.)
How to keep concrete from leaking out of mold?from hgtv.com
Run a small uniform bead of 100-percent silicone caulk in all the inside corners and seams of the mold. Smooth the bead with a caulk tool and let it dry thoroughly for 24 hours (Image 3). You can also use the tip of your finger to smooth out the caulk. The silicone will seal the joints of the mold and prevent the wet concrete from leaking out of the mold.
How to measure for cutouts in kitchen?from hgtv.com
If you need to have a cutout in your countertop for a cooktop or a sink, measure and mark it on the mold's base. When determining the size of the cutout, take into account the thickness of the side pieces of the melamine mold. Do a dry fit of the cooktop or sink to make sure the size is correct.
What to do if concrete pulls off?from wikihow.com
If a little concrete pulls off with the wall, you can trowel some of the excess concrete back on with a spritz of water.
How to make a mold out of melamine?from wikihow.com
Cut the melamine base. Cut a base for your mold using the measurements that you took, but with 3/4" added all the way around. You can cut the melamine using a table saw or similar tool.
How to add strength to concrete?from wikihow.com
You can also add extra strength by cutting and placing a steel mesh in the wet concrete halfway through the pouring process , so that it is completely entombed in the material. This isn't completely necessary, but is important for preventing cracks and creating a countertop that will last a lifetime.
How to finish a slab of concrete?from hgtv.com
Prepare the surface for finishing by etching it with a solution made from 1 ounce of muriatic acid mixed in 1 gallon of water. Wipe the surface thoroughly with a sponge dipped in the acid solution. Wear eye protection, a respirator and acid-proof gloves. If you’re working inside, open doors and windows for better ventilation. Rinse the slab with fresh water to remove the acid mixture and then let it dry completely.
How long does it take for concrete to cure?from hgtv.com
Plan for basic color treatments and plain edges. The key to success is building a sturdy, leak-proof mold in which to pour the concrete. P lan to spend a couple of weekends on this project. It takes about a week for the concrete to cure, so work in a space where the countertop will not be disturbed.