Polishing concrete

[Ken524]

I've seen several ovens now where the landings/tables are finished with polished concrete. They look super. I like the idea of adding color, different stones, etc.

Is this something anyone can do or does it require special tools or skills?

Could you guys that have done this post a simple step-by-step for us to demystify the process?

What tools do I need? How much concrete is removed in the process (I assume I need to pour the concrete a little thicker than I need to achieve the correct level after smoothing/polishing)?

Thanks!

[fullback66]

Re: Polishing concrete

Thats funny, I just asked Neil2 and his flying saucer the same question. He polished his concrete.
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[Ken524]

Re: Polishing concrete

Thats funny, I just asked Neil2 and his flying saucer the same question.

Beautiful, isn't it? I'm hoping it can be a low-cost, do-it-yourself alternative to granite.

[jcg31]

Re: Polishing concrete

This site seems to have a fair amount of instruction on the topic, particularly under the "grinding" chapter.Concrete countertop FAQs - how to build concrete counters albeit a bit self promoting.

[fullback66]

Re: Polishing concrete

I might have to get that book. It looks like it might cost alot of money before you can even start. All the diamond pads. May be a little high in price to do one thing. If I did buy the stuff I would have to do some paying jobs to get some of the money back. It does look awesome.

What is the cost differance compared to granite?
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[Mojoe]

Re: Polishing concrete

jc did you use the Cheng products?

Couple other sites fullback:
Concrete countertops; reinforcing and concrete mixes - Decorative Concrete Concrete Construction - Find Articles
Build Your Own Concrete Countertops Part 1 from the Natural Handyman home repair and do it yourself website

[fullback66]

Re: Polishing concrete

Mojoe,
Thanks for the websites.
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[edschmidt]

Re: Polishing concrete

Diamond grinders and polishers are not as expensive as they used to be, in the $20 range. I got a new diamond cup wheel for a 7" grinder off e-bay for $1 and used it on my top. Not perfect, but because I used stones and sand left over from putting in my septic tank the whole top cost $10.
And I still have the wheel.
P.S. the stones were never in the septic tank!!!

[RTflorida]

Re: Polishing concrete

Like most anything, shop around and you can save considerably over the cost of granite (if you do it yourself). The concrete guys locally are pricing concrete countertops just under low end granite. I would love to try it myself, I will need project, maybe an out table from my oven. Convicing my better have to the need will be the toughest part.

RT

[Ken524]

Re: Polishing concrete

Ed (and others),

What kind of grinders are you all using?

As I mentioned, the how-to articles all talk about fancy $400 multi-speed wet grinders. Is that what you all are using? If not, can you mention some makes & models so I can get an idea of what I'm shopping for?

What will it take to do a nice job? This is the only polished concrete work I foresee doing.

Thanks.

[gjbingham]

Re: Polishing concrete

Ken,
My Sunset BBQ and Outdoor Kitchens book has a 4 page section with good pics on pouring a concrete countertop. They pull the forms off the sides the day they pour it and finish it right then. They get a really nicely polished surface right off the bat, which I think would probably suit your purposes.

You might want to check at the library for the book, or check the "new and used" at Amazon for a $3 special.

G.

[Ken524]

Re: Polishing concrete

Ken,
My Sunset BBQ and Outdoor Kitchens book has a 4 page section with good pics on pouring a concrete countertop.

Thanks George!

[jcg31]

Re: Polishing concrete

Looks like Quikrete is developing a product for countertops as well


QUIKRETE® - Countertop Mix

[gjbingham]

Re: Polishing concrete

That stuff looks awesome! I wish I could get my hands on a few bags today.
I don't think I have the patience to wait for this product to be released.

Good find, Jim!

George

[dmun]

Re: Polishing concrete

I don't get it - there's already a perfectly good name for high class colored concrete, polished after casting. It's Terrazzo.