DIY Concrete Counters OVER Old Laminate

[@aaronfu2]

Great job! For better results, you should mix your concrete with a drill & paint mixer. You'll get a much smother consistency that's easier to apply. It should be mixed a bit wetter also. You can then pour it out and spread it quicker. You would want to use the big Trowel, the one you bought but didn't use . . . You can also use a Window Squeegee. Use a Brush & small Roller for your vertical surfaces. A wetter consistency A: Allows your material to go further. B: Allows the material to better Self Level. In all, reducing the amount of sanding required. FYI: With the right tools, that can be polished to a glass like finish, if one is willing. Cheers!

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Thanks for the tips. I'm definitely not a pro!

[@shortyzpapa815]

@aaronfu2 What tools would that be? To get a smooth polished finish like you're describing?

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

Use a Magic trowel

[@mermaiddiyartist8119]

Ty

[@jayroo10]

what do you put on top for that glass like finish? it is a special sealer?

[@Diana-xm1dm]

Rustic, eclectic, cozy, charm, and easy are right up my alley. Thanks for confirming what I've been thinking. These look so cool. God Bless!

[@yesiownfrodo]

The man was right, wire mesh would keep it from cracking in the future, but hey, you got great countertops out of this, and it was nice that he was willing to share info! Love people like that. :)

[@chantalholloway759]

What kind/size wire mesh would be adequate for countertops?

[@iserieducational1445]

I would not recommend wire mesh -it's overkill. I've had my countertops for 4 years now, used the same brand of concrete- did 4 coats over the cheapest Ikea countertop and there have been no issues. I would strongly suggest removing the sink first. Also, I used Odie's Oil to seal it which is food safe and has been excellent :)

[@darlenerutherford345]

I’m FINALLY trying this! I just finished 2nd coat of concrete 🎉

[@ritareilly8548]

Fantastic! You are a great inspiration! I Love seeing a woman get things done because my husband doesn’t have much initiative to do home improvement projects. We live in a house that is over a hundred years old and it still needs a lot of work! My kitchen has been neglected far too long and I don’t have a lot of money to invest in it. Thank you for sharing this video!!! It encourages me to get this project done!!!❤❤❤

[@clbnak]

I absolutely love the final result of your project! After watching multiple videos on concrete countertops, your video is the one which convinced me I could do this. ❤ I’m extremely Type A and perfectionism is a huge barrier for me, but your relaxed attitude (which did not in any way impact your fantastic final result) was a great example of not sweating the small stuff. I’m 59 yrs old but new to home DIY, and I tend to overthink the minutia when considering projects. Unfortunately, that usually ends up dissuading me from even trying. Your video was a great example of ripping the Band-Aid and just going for it. My first project is going to be a 36” bathroom countertop so the risk is low if something happens and it doesn’t turn out; however, after watching your video a couple of times, I’m confident that it will turn out the way I want it to. Thank you!

[@iristamara5958]

Perfect. These counters rock. For the price, you couldn’t ask for more. Thanks so much for sharing. I’m totally going to copy this.

[@AliciaGonzalez-gi5py]

I love the fact that your countertops came out AMAZING without you trying so so hard to make them come out perfect :) I've been researching a lot and other ladies spend like 3 days on their countertops and 6+ hours on sanding lol

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

NO way I have the patience for that!!!

[@brendaschaefer8353]

They look so amazing! I have a horrible speckled kitchen counter top that I’m wanting to try this on. Thanks for sharing!

[@samiraalotaibi2418]

Thank you for showing your hard work

[@purenkool2024]

One word: PROFESSIONAL! 👏

[@nandelars6411]

Thank you for this tutorial! You're a great teacher! I'm adding Antique Copper Pearl X to the concrete...can't Wait!

[@denisedraper703]

Where do you get the additive and how did it turn out?

[@nandelars6411]

@@denisedraper703 Home Depot sells a 1 gallon concrete bonding additive by Quikcrete

[@nandelars6411]

@@denisedraper703 HI Denise, I just realized that you may have been asking about the copper additive instead of concrete bonding additive. I purchased 2 small jars of Antique Copper powdered pigment from www.jerrysartarama.com. I haven't started skim coating yet but will add the copper pigment to the final coat. I anticipate that it will be beautiful! 😍👍

[@lovinghomescents]

Would love to see how it turned out

[@gracekuipers6572]

Could you do a one year update! I want to see how they held up:)

[@mermaiddiyartist8119]

Hope she does a two year update

[@mvieck68]

I honestly don't see this lasting very long or very well. That skim coat is not meant for this type of use and the sealer is probably just "OK". I would very much love to see a real world 1 or 2 years of use.

[@kimmion1996]

We did this in our old house they were still great when we moved out 10 years later!! Even lasted while raising 2 boys. Everyone always complemented them. We are doing them in our new house right now.

[@jennaurgo144]

​@Jeremy Kimmi Onthank what sealer did you use?

[@Mirabel5]

@@kimmion1996did you follow this exact process?? Looking to do ours and we want it to last, too!

[@sunavanbekkum]

I love this way to put some character on the counter tops.

[@gypsyscometotown]

Use a damp microfiber roller to put your topcoat on, I do all my edging first and then use the roller and then leave it alone don’t overwork it. It’ll look great

[@jennaedinger]

Thank you this is exactly what I am going to do! I wanted to figure out a way to make my counters look and feel like soap stone that would have some texture and without the expensive price!

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Glad it was helpful! I love my counters :)

[@bethanyking7684]

@@TheCrazyCraftLady Have they held up well after 2 years? Have you had to do any maintenance on them?

[@miket4685]

Great job and great tutorial! Because of your video I have some great ideas around the house. Thank you!

[@susanperron2703]

I can't wait to try this I have ugly countertops.

[@nathanwoodward7675]

These are amazing! I'm actually going out to get the things I need to do this today!

[@malloryallred1336]

Your counter top is beautiful and this is such a helpful tutorial!!

[@sharonpaul912]

Can you please do an update on how its held up?

[@chucklangenfeld]

I like this as my existing formica is dated, but I will need to fix in a new sink, which seems doable having watched your process first

[@purenkool2024]

So relaxing to watch someone else do the work.😉

[@reginasmith3149]

Looks very nice in your kitchen. This was helpful. Thanks.

[@jacquelynearwood3536]

Been trying to think of a way to change counter top. thanks so much

[@mehranfreeman6192]

To get rid of the stains , use oil base clear coat /sealer instead of the water base you did. This is the common problem with all water base dealers/clear coats

[@marcoty6312]

I know Im asking randomly but does any of you know a method to log back into an Instagram account..? I was stupid lost my password. I appreciate any assistance you can offer me

[@kanekarter1249]

@Marco Ty Instablaster ;)

[@marcoty6312]

@Kane Karter thanks for your reply. I got to the site on google and im waiting for the hacking stuff atm. Seems to take quite some time so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@marcoty6312]

@Kane Karter it worked and I now got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thanks so much you saved my ass !

[@kanekarter1249]

@Marco Ty glad I could help xD

[@jbjablanco]

Wow ! Woman you are fearless!!!

[@purenkool2024]

What a great idea!🤓 I was thinking of flooring ideas but kitchen tops? Why not!

[@jader3259]

Would this technique work over laminate flooring???? Thanks for sharing diy on your concrete finish over laminate countertops! Just what I was thinking might be cool to do and figured probably someone has tried it before. Love that a few other tubers also got great results. And amazing to know it’s lasted durability in family homes!) Yay! Polish concrete counters is on my list. Sooo wonder if can also do ugly old floor in small kitchen to match. Been researching as going to renovate out the kinks in kitchen…. Turn pre-existing cabinets more functional, try my hand at flip up cupboards like how barristers bookcases open. Owww boy and six small size stacked shelves for my boxes of tea. Heck to the yes! When I’m ready will record as so awesome when learning from others! I love crafting & sewing Thanks for sharing & keeping it easy 💗

[@sarahsugarbritches319]

henry finish way awesome! love the light tone.

[@tracycoffey962]

How are the countertops holding up? I know my countertops can take a beating is the only reason I’m afraid to try this.

[@MsDrewma]

I was wondering how well this has held up? have you had any issues?

[@Catherineslove]

I did mine over two years ago and still have them up. It does patina but I liked how the patina looks. It gives is a design. I used the pregnator and something called Taff Duck that sealed the countertop and that is amazing stuff! It is only 30 bucks on Amazon and did my entire kitchen .. bout 75 square feet! I love it but I am redoing it very soon to get a newer look.

[@Catherineslove]

I would like to mention I just did mine with the heather finish and water just like the package said to mix it. I did about four layers and used about three boxes of cement. I did not do it like this video did.

[@taraadinolfi5847]

@@Catherineslove good info! Did you use the mesh?

[@Catherineslove]

@@taraadinolfi5847 No not at all lol I used the Heather finish on particleboard. I did about four coats. It took about three boxes and cost about 200 bucks for all of it including the particleboard! I did about 80 square feet! The Taff Duck is the best! I used this other product for my island and it sucked .. never again! lol The Taff Duck has held out for over two years!

[@shaunehemphill3259]

@@Catherineslove did you use the Henry brand as well

[@lidodd]

Great project! Thanks. It’s been 2 years, does it hold?

[@seventhleo]

Thanks for a different way to achieve concrete countertops. How has the countertop held up over this last year+ of use? Any chipping or damage cause by dropped items or daily use?

[@brigettemcsharar4114]

I'd love to know too!

[@mermaiddiyartist8119]

The great thing is you can make multiple colors of concrete and make a marble esk table top

[@Justamama9]

Just curious as to why you didnt remove the sink? Ive watched different ways to do this but so far this is the first one ive seen that the sink wasnt removed . Beautiful job!

[@MsPickles333]

Amazing job, I love it! Can you do this over plywood?

[@punchymuffin6402]

Pretty sure you can.

[@AaronSmith-c6t]

Hi, I am very interested in knowing how your counterpart is doing 4 years later. I am ready to do my own. Thank you

[@christianw929]

Any thoughts on trying this on old tile countertops?

[@punchymuffin6402]

Bondo the joints first and take a grinding cup to scratch it up.

[@toritori5835]

I wonder if you have to sand if you do the stapled wire mesh. Great project!!!

[@Maybelove88]

Been watching this video on repeat for a while! Great work… is it holding up? If so I would like to try it myself. Thanks in advance.

[@tmazur7171]

This looks great! How is it holding up now?

[@ctplucker]

Love the use of the word “apparently”. :-)

[@hankdeezy6785]

Great info!

[@gonzalez-valdez8043]

How are they holding up?

[@anyadocious]

Great job! Thanks for the tut! 😊

[@kendramorford9088]

Thank you for the video. It is helpful! I have a couple questions. How long did you wait after sanding your last layer of concrete to apply the first layer of sealer? Also I have read some online reviews about CHENG sealer leaving streaks. Did you have any trouble with that? Any tips for avoiding streaks?

[@tourbike]

Really inspired to do the same. Just wondering if the kitchen worktop bonded well to the laminate or if any cracks appeared further down the line?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

No cracks so far!

[@ruggedlifejewelry]

Wait how many coats of sealer and then when do you wax and how many coats? I've started the project 😮

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

I ended up ditching the wax. I wanted a more durable, waterproof finish. I think I did 2-3 coats of sealer. The sealer is amazing and has held up really well.

[@yourmajesty1630]

what do you sand it down with. what kind of sand paper product.

[@realizedjourney]

Are your countertop edges rounded? I want to do this, but not sure if it would work with rounded edge?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Yes, my countertop edges are rounded. You just need to smooth around the curve - think about it like frosting a cake!

[@dawnmms]

Just watching and wondering if you want to add colors, how would you go about doing that?

[@bq552]

Update video?? How have they held up??

[@kevinjokipii4260]

Was the mesh that was recommended a metal wire mesh or fiberglass mesh?

[@sharonsteele618]

Looks great

[@petrinaentertainmentandsinger]

How has your counter tops held up please. Could you paint and design before sealing

[@yvonneschimmel453]

Can you paint on top of the sealer?

[@wessteele1058]

Maybe if u tried a concrete trowel you could smooth it out a bit better , just a suggestion or question if u have already tried it?

[@coreilove]

Great tutorial, do you think you could use over bathroom tile counter top...

[@Customplays33110]

Love how you took the time with the steps. So you can get a light beige or green counter tops?

[@riaglitta]

There are concrete color additives available too - and other additives including the little chips of stuff you can find in like, garage floors.. and even glitters.

[@punchymuffin6402]

Careful, might mess with the strength. I put this on my countertops and it is softer than concrete and easy to gouge.

[@Mrs.LadeyBug]

How are your counters now? Is there anything you would do differently? Is there any particular issues, tips, upkeep that you would like to add? Thanks!!

[@lmsiltumens]

Would you recommend the feather edge pro with additive over the Henry feather edge product now that you’ve experienced using both?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

I think they both hold up well. It would probably be a matter of color preference, since my counters are significantly darker than the table.

[@littlefamily6553]

Can I do this over a faus counter top ?

[@channellyouryoga3275]

How didn’t these hold up?

[@BetsyUnterborn-lv9dc]

How could you square off the edges?

[@robertmalone7958]

I am VERY interested in trying this. How is it holding up after use? We have complex formica counters and can't afford granite.

[@debbibailey1813]

I did this using Ardex feather finish 4 years ago and still love my countertops!!!

[@mariajjenkins]

Hello, wondering if at once years later, the cement is still in good shape. I am thinking about doing this. Thanks

[@rhondaslack7624]

Would like to know if you have to reinforce your countertops?

[@SurfTheStreets01]

Can we get an update

[@judyj4255]

Lovely! Did you use the concrete bonding additive with the Henry's FeatherFresh also?

[@justmejo9008]

In the video she said she used water not the additive the first time

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

I've done it both ways. The reason I used the additive the second time is because it was specifically recommended on the bucket of concrete mix. So, if there is an additive that is recommended for use with the Henry brand, I would use it!

[@mrs.m9432]

I see you have a link to the dealer but do you have a link for the rest of the stuff

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Hi Mandy, I updated the video description with more links to supplies. I also wrote a detailed blog post with budget breakdown, tips, and supply links: thecrazycraftlady.com/skim-coat-concrete-counters/

[@tedhudspeth1692]

Will you post a list of the name of the products that you used for us please?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Hi Ted, I updated the video description with more links to supplies. I also wrote a detailed blog post with budget breakdown, tips, and supply links: thecrazycraftlady.com/skim-coat-concrete-counters/

[@carolesolen7638]

Absolutely love your rustic counter top & the table. I bought the Henry 549 feather finish to do a small laminated bathroom vanity counter. Any suggestions of which sealer is best for this counter top?? Thanks for any suggestions!!

[@Liz-ke8qm]

I see multiple people have asked if the countertops have held up. I am assuming no as there has been no replies back on these questions 😮

[@TheFashionBookbyKayleeAdams]

Does the sealer come in matte? Or only the shiny finish?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

You know, I haven't seen it in matte... at least not from that brand.

[@donnawilliams5421]

I was wondering what I could use in place of the concrete powder you used? I can’t find anyplace that will ship it. My Lowe’s has a hydraulic concrete powder, that kinda resembles what you are using.

[@punchymuffin6402]

No Home Depot where you live?

[@countessa222]

I’m from North Dakota lol 🪕🎶 You'll save big money You’ll save big money When you shop Menards

[@lisaotero2116]

hi, i loved your video of theconcrete countertop. i bought wax for tnelast step, did u use minwax or regular paste wax.

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

I ended up not using the wax... It kind of seemed unnecessary after I fully sealed the counters.

[@cconnelly204]

@@TheCrazyCraftLady did you use the Cheng Sealant without diluting it? Looks like you just rubbed it directly on the concrete. I watched a Cheng video last night and the process was wet and messy. Lots of water use!

[@bartgiles1068]

It looks brown did you add a color buy a specific color most concrete it gray that would be the color I’m looking for?

[@MarsM13]

I can't find rhat brand. Will Quikrete work?

[@xoBillie]

Lowes and Home Depot both sell the Henry Feather Finish.. it’s in the flooring dept near where the grout is kept. It’s not actually in the concrete/building materials section. Hope this helps!

[@craigdinneen6095]

Hi what was the concrete ratio

[@mrs.m9432]

What grit sandpaper did you use to sand in between coats

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

I think it was medium. It honestly doesn't matter. You are just sanding to smooth out any obvious bumps or ridges.

[@gerlindakumer8966]

Did you stain your concrete?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

No, I did not. I see lots of tutorials use Henry FeatherFinish from Home Depot. I bought my concrete at Menards (here in Minnesota) and it came out much darker.

[@elizabethleach8408]

Thanks for the video with close ups of the finished product! I am doing this project this week, but I have a couple questions. Did you add the concrete bonding additive to the Henry's feather finish on the children's table you showed at the end? I'm wondering if maybe that's also a factor in the color difference. Also, do you think a different texture closer to poured concrete could be accomplished by user a thinner mixture and finishing it with a sponge after spreading out with the scraper? Thanks again! Love your green wall too. 😍

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

No additive used on the play table. I think you could absolutely get a smoother finish... I’m just not that patient 😆

[@bilgedemirbas383]

Would you recommend this over a bathtub?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Ohhh... Probably not. Sorry!

[@Jc-sm5vi]

Can you epoxy the concrete countertops instead of waxing them?

[@brandirobertson229]

I was wondering the same thing. I believe I'm going to epoxy mine.

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Brandi- if you do, please let me know how it turns out. I just don’t know enough about epoxy to weigh in here. Sorry!

[@devdawg22]

Yes but be sure to do a seal coat or 2 before the flood coat

[@punchymuffin6402]

I epoxied mine and they turned an aweful brown color with the high-gloss finish.

[@christiannaripley9174]

What grit sandpaper did you use?

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Oh geez! I’m horrible at this. I never pay attention to the exact grit- all of my sandpaper is in a tub all jumbled up 🤦‍♀️To rough up the counters in the beginning, use course. To finish the concrete and smooth, start with med and then transition to fine.

[@jamiwilliams5885]

I notice you acknowledge the compliments. But you did not respond the questions regarding aging, wear, scratches etc...

[@TheCrazyCraftLady]

Going on 2 years. No cracks or dents at all! I am careful not to scratch the sealer (place a towel under appliances like crock pot, juicer, blender, etc). Overall, VERY happy with the project! And I’m sorry I don’t have time to respond to every comment on my videos. This channel is not my full-time job.

[@jamiwilliams5885]

@@TheCrazyCraftLady thank you. I appreciate your response 😁✌🤟

[@wandakowalski7063]

A mask or respirator would make sure none of the fine powder drifted into your lungs Good video!

[@KashiGirl911]

rough sands counter top.. already looks better

[@smotpoker15]

Add fibers

[@theremnant724]

She never used the big trawl. 👀

[@carlosriosmunoz2328]

Noooooo Cariño 4 capas de Sellador noooo darle 16 capas de Sellador! Los Selladores o Tapaporos sólo 1 Mano , este Producto no es para quitarte las imperfecciones.😁😁😁😁😁

[@carlosriosmunoz2328]

Oye cariño te quedó un poquito defectuoso nooooo? No Amor esto es Estilo Rústico!👀👀👀😆😆😆😁🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔😭😭😭😭😭😄😄

[@mostHumblePersonAlive]

It bugs me how in these videos no one wears a mask. Concrete dust has silica in it, you shouldn't breathe that.

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

Don't wash concrete down your drain 😳 use a bucket of water to wash and toss the dirty water in your alley

[@Kedda486]

Wait your children were in school in April why it was definitely covid around school was closed I'm confused 🤷 help me please 🤔🤔🤔

[@brittanyjohnson2313]

Not all schools were closed! Schools in my area were open April of last year.