Ep 9. Building Concrete Countertops
- TV-G
- August 1, 2017
- 18 min
In this episode of Ron Hazelton's House Calls: Home Improvement Projects season 2, Ron Hazleton tackles the daunting task of building concrete countertops. Concrete countertops are a trendy and durable option for kitchens and bathrooms, but the construction process can be intimidating for DIY enthusiasts.
Ron first meets with a concrete expert to learn the basics of working with concrete. The expert explains the materials needed and demonstrates the steps involved in mixing and pouring the concrete. Ron then takes on the project himself at a homeowner's residence.
The first step in the countertop construction process is creating a mold. Ron measures the space where the countertop will go and creates a mold out of melamine board. He then secures the mold using silicone caulk to prevent any concrete from seeping out.
Once the mold is ready, Ron mixes the concrete. He uses a special mix for countertops, which includes small aggregates so that the countertop will not crack over time. He pours the concrete into the mold and vibrates it to release any air bubbles.
After letting the concrete set for a few hours, Ron removes the mold and begins the sanding process. He uses progressively finer sandpaper to smooth the surface and create a polished look. He also uses a grinder to create rounded edges and cut out any sink or stove holes.
To finish the countertop, Ron seals it with a special concrete sealer. This sealer not only protects the countertop from stains and scratches, but it also gives it a glossy finish.
In addition to demonstrating the countertop construction process, Ron also gives tips on how to customize the look of the countertop with different stains and finishes. He meets with a homeowner who has created a colorful concrete countertop by adding paint to the surface before sealing it.
Overall, this episode of Ron Hazelton's House Calls: Home Improvement Projects season 2 provides viewers with a comprehensive guide to building concrete countertops. Ron's expert advice and hands-on approach make this project seem achievable for any DIY enthusiast.