Concrete Countertops, Table of Contents

1. DESIGN AND PLANNING

• Why concrete?
• Before you begin
• Break out of the mold
• Complements and supplements

2. BUILDING THE MOLD

• Tools and materials
• Laying out the mold
• Assembling the mold

3. MIX DESIGN

• The basics
• A basic mix
• Calculating and proportioning ingredients

4. MIXING AND POURING

• Tools and materials
• The work environment
• Mixing the concrete
• Placing the concrete

5. CURING, FINISHING, AND TROUBLESHOOTING

• Curing
• Releasing the concrete
• Grinding and polishing
• Placing inlays
• Sealing the concrete
• Troubleshooting

6. INSTALLING THE COUNTERTOP

• Preparing the cabinets
• Installing the countertop
• Installing the backsplash

Appendix 1: Building a Curved Form
Appendix 2: Forming a Drop-Down Front Edge
Appendix 3: Pouring a Countertop in Place
Appendix 4: Maintaining a Concrete Countertop