Five Must-Have Tools for Concrete Countertop Contractors

1. Mortar mixer

Although you can mix the small batches of concrete required for countertops in buckets or a wheelbarrow, a portable mortar mixer is more convenient and will blend ingredients more thoroughly. View a video about concrete mixers for countertops.

2. Countertop molds

The final appearance of a countertop will largely depend on the quality and precision of the mold its cast in. You can use a variety of materials to make your mold, as long as they are waterproof or sealed against moisture. Mold-making materials recommended by experienced countertop fabricators include wood, polyurethane foam, metal, melamine and rubber. Learn more.

3. Casting table

A strong, level casting table is essential to properly support the countertop mold and the heavy, wet concrete until it cures. Some fabricators save money by building their own casting tables. But if you plan to buy a table, make sure it’s rigid enough not to sag under the weight of the concrete and large enough to accommodate the average countertop slab. Watch this video to get tips on buying or building a casting table.

4. Handheld grinder and polisher

Using an electric grinder along with a set of diamond pads to grind and polish the countertop surface wilI greatly enhance the appearance by smoothing away minor blemishes, burrs, and rough spots and by exposing some of the decorative aggregate and embedded elements (if used). Learn more about polishing countertops.

5. Concrete vibrator

An electric vibrator is the best way to consolidate and level concrete after it’s placed in the countertop mold. Vibration will greatly improve the appearance of your countertops by removing air pockets in the mix that could leave holes or pits in the surface. Concrete vibration also helps to move the cream layer of the concrete to the bottom of the mold, which will be visible as the top surface of the finished countertop. See a video on how to consolidate concrete countertops.