Concrete Countertop Supplies and Materials

1. Casting table or surface to build the countertop: In order to finish the edges, the countertop needs to be raised at least several inches from the floor and hang out over the table. Of course the casting table can be the cabinet if casting in place.
   
   
2. Forms: You can buy special forms but this is not absolutely necessary unless you want decorative and textured edges. Standard 2x4s and 1x4s will work for basic edges.
   
   
3. Drill, screws, and clamps for setting and removing forms
   
   
4. Reinforcement: This can be either wire mesh, steel rebar, or combination of both
   
   
5. Concrete mix: This is obvious but be sure you have more than enough. There's nothing worse than running out.
   
   
6. Integral colorants: Not necessary, you can color with dyes and stains
   
   
7. Electric mixer with mixing paddle and clean, empty buckets
   
   
8. Concrete hand tools: hand float, trowell, edging tool
   
   
9. Small screed: This can be anything with a straight edge to strike off concrete. Left over 2x4 works fine
   
   
10. Vibrating tool: Depending on stiffness of the mix, you may need to vibrate the forms
    
    
11. Small grinder to smooth or polish the surface
    
    
12. Dyes and Stains: You can color with integral color and/or customize it with acid stains and dyes
    
    
13. Neutralizer: Surface must be neutralized before sealing if acid stained. Diluted ammonia works well for this
    
    
14. Sealer: Countertop sealer and/or beeswax depending on preferred method
    
    
15. Small mixing paddle for sealer and application brushes or rollers
    
    
16. Orbital buffer for buffing wax

This gives you an idea of basic supplies. Watch your instructional video for anything else you might want. The most important of concrete countertop supplies is an adequate amount of concrete mix and concrete tools to smooth it out. This is the only step in the project when you don't have time to go out and get something you need. It better be there waiting.