How to Refinish Concrete Kitchen Countertops

concrete countertop
  • 48-72 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 150-250
What You'll Need
Wet polisher
Polishing pad
Concrete countertop sealer
Sponge
Rag
Rubber gloves
Safety glasses
Countertop wax
Paint roller
Sander
What You'll Need
Wet polisher
Polishing pad
Concrete countertop sealer
Sponge
Rag
Rubber gloves
Safety glasses
Countertop wax
Paint roller
Sander

Concrete kitchen countertops are fast becoming a trend in kitchen countertop remodeling. Because of its versatility and durability, it has become the most sought after countertop of choice. Although the qualities of concrete kitchen countertops are quite impressive, the surface areas of these countertops are still vulnerable to chipping, cracking, etching and staining. This happens through prolonged use or to improper care. Here are some steps to refinish those worn-looking concrete kitchen countertops.

Step 1 – Prep the Countertop Surface

To prepare the countertop surface, make sure to remove everything that is placed on top of it. Get a clean damp rag or sponge and clean the entire surface to get rid of any dirt. Wipe the countertop repeatedly as necessary until it is clean.

Step 2 – Polishing the Entire Surface

Polish the entire surface area with a wet polisher. This is to get rid entirely of scratches and to provide the concrete kitchen countertop with a new surface. This tool will remove what is left of the old and damaged sealer in order to allow the countertop to be sealed anew.

To polish the surface, prepare the wet polisher and insert a fine rough grit-polishing pad. This rough pad will remove the old sealer. Connect the water hose to the device and plug it into a power source. Make sure to wear safety equipment first (gloves and goggles) when working with concrete.

Read the user manual that comes with the device to ensure proper use. When the machine is on, position it on top of the concrete countertop and allow it to remove a thin portion of the top surface. Never stay on one portion of the countertop too long. Make sure to make the polishing even. Afterward, change the polishing pad with a fine grit pad. Polish the entire surface once more to provide a smoother finish.

Step 3 – Apply the Sealer

While the concrete countertop is still wet, mix the sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the first coat. Using a roller on this procedure will make the task a lot easier and faster. When sealing, make sure to cover the entire surface area as well as the sides. Allow the sealer to dry before adding another coat. When the finishing coat has been applied evenly on the surface of the concrete countertop, allow it to dry completely for about 48 hours.

Step 4 – Sand the Dried Sealant and Apply Wax

Sand the sealed surface of the countertop in order to allow it to absorb the wax a lot better. Then, apply concrete kitchen countertop wax to create a shiny waterproof surface. Wax is a very good sealant, but it needs to be reapplied at least once a month in order to maintain the shine and waterproof qualities.

WARNING: To avoid getting particles into your eyes or lungs, wear safety glasses and a face or respirator mask while sanding the sealant.