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How to Fix Your Outdated Countertops with Concrete

November 22, 2019 By creatingyourspace Leave a Comment

If you purchased an older home, you might have settled on a few of the home’s design aspects for a lower price. But the time has come, and you have had enough of your current countertops. We are all trying to be cost-conscious in this day and age; therefore, you are looking for a simple DIY project that will not break your bank. Look no further, because we have the perfect project to turn your old countertops from blah to ta-dah!

Supply List

  • Concrete Underlayment
  • Concrete Seal
  • A Mixing Bowl (Disposable) 
  • Metal Dry Wall Knife 
  • A Sponge
  • 150-grit and 220-grit Sandpaper
  • A Pair of Latex Gloves
  • Orbital Sander
  • Masking Tape
  • Dish Cloth (Disposable) 

Step One

You will want to prepare your countertop for the concrete by taking your tape and masking off the areas surrounding the countertop. You want to make sure that the concrete will not get on your cabinets or walls. Next, you want to remove your sink’s faucet, knobs, and drain. 

Step Two

Take your 150-grit sandpaper and begin to sand down the countertop. For the larger areas, you can use your orbital sander. Make sure you sand down every aspect of the countertop because it is a crucial step.

Step Three

Grab your dishcloth and get it a little damp then wipe off the countertop removing any remaining dust or particles. Make sure the surface is completely dry before you continue. 

Step Four

Follow the mixing instructions on your concrete underlayment package. Make sure to mix in small portions, so the mix will not harden while you are working. 

Step Five

Take your concrete mix and drywall knife and begin to scrape a very thin layer on top of your countertop – this layer will serve as the base for the rest of the coatings. 

Step Six

For the sink’s basin, put on your latex gloves and apply a very thin layer with your hands. 

Step Seven

 You can use your fingers to get into the countertop’s corners with the concrete mix.

Step Eight 

Let your countertop dry before moving on to the next step. 

Step Nine

Mix together another small portion of concrete for your second coat.

Step Ten

Take your drywall knife and begin to lay down the second layer. You can apply it in straight or cross-hatch lines for texture. 

  • Note: This layer will be thicker than the previous base coat, but make sure that the layer is even and smooth before proceeding. 

Step Eleven

Let your second layer dry completely before moving onto the next step.

Step Twelve

Take your 150-grit sandpaper and begin sanding the dry surface. You want to take away any undesired, excess pieces of concrete. 

Step Thirteen

Grab your dishcloth and get it a little damp then wipe off the countertop removing any remaining dust or particles. Make sure the surface is completely dry before you continue.

Step Fourteen 

Apply your third layer of concrete mix to the countertop with the same thickness as your second layer. 

Step Fifteen

Let your third layer dry completely before moving onto the next step.

Step Sixteen

Once your third layer has dried, begin sanding with your 150-grit sandpaper then use your 220-grit sandpaper to obtain a sleeker look. 

  • Note: The thickness of your concrete should be approximately 1/4” in thickness. 

Step Seventeen

Take the concrete sealer and apply three coats to your countertop with a clean sponge. Let each coat dry before moving onto the next coating.

Step Eighteen

Place your faucet, knobs and drain back on your sink and voila, you are finished!!

We hope you enjoyed this fun project to transform your old countertops into beautiful concrete counters. Let us know your thoughts and results below in the comment section.

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Filed Under: Do It Yourself (DIY) Projects Tagged With: concrete, Countertops, DIY project

Create a Reading Corner

November 23, 2011 By creatingyourspace Leave a Comment

Would you like to see your children read more than they do? You may want to think about making it more inviting by creating a special reading nook.

This boy has found a cozy spot to peruse his latest book. It’s just a cut-out in a bookshelf, but the carpeting is soft and the size is perfect for him to tuck himself in and have a read.

To build a nook for your child or children to read in, start by selecting a spot in the house that is quiet and not prone to distractions. This may be a corner of their bedrooms, the dining room or a section of the basement.

Once you’ve chosen the spot, consider what you need to make it comfortable and inviting. Good lighting is important. If you don’t have an overhead light, a floor lamp or even a table or task lamp could do. Look for an option that will shine light on the pages without creating a glare.

Make the area comfortable with cushions and throw pillows. If you have one, put in an easy chair and maybe an ottoman. Add a table or shelf to set books on between reading sessions. With just a little effort, you may have helped your children feel more comfortable and encouraged to spend time reading.

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Filed Under: Hints & Tips, Inspiration, Interior Finishes Tagged With: area rug, bookshelves, children's space, cozy reading area, DIY project, floor cushions, reading corner, reading nook, soft carpeting

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