Kitchen Remodel & Repair

How to Pour a Concrete Vanity Top

6 Min Read

I’m excited to share my DIY concrete vanity project. It saved me money and added a unique touch to my bathroom. The process was easier than I thought, and the results are amazing.

For those thinking about a bathroom renovation, a DIY concrete vanity is a great choice. I made a 32″ vanity top for just $50, much cheaper than store-bought ones. The cost included $23 for concrete, $3 for flow control, $16 for a melamine shelf, $4 for caulk, and $4 for rebar.

The concrete vanity top is 1″ thick, typical for such projects. I used rebar for extra strength in narrow spots. I needed a saw, drill, jigsaw, measuring tape, caulking gun, and concrete trowel for the job. My supplies were Rapid Set Cement All, Rapid Set Flow Control, melamine covered board, rigid foam, 100% silicone caulk, WD40, cold water, and rebar.

This project is a big money-saver compared to hiring professionals. DIY concrete countertops usually cost between $200-$400, depending on size. My vanity project was much cheaper, making it a budget-friendly option.

Introduction to Concrete Vanity Tops

Concrete vanity tops are becoming a hit in modern bathrooms. They mix durability, style, and customization in a way other materials can’t. DIY concrete vanity tops are especially popular for making bathrooms look great without spending a lot.

Benefits of DIY Concrete Vanity Tops

Making your own concrete vanity top is a fun project. It lets you design it just how you want. You can shape it to fit any space and even add sinks for a smooth look. Most countertops are 1.5 inches thick, which is perfect for most needs.

Cost-Effectiveness of Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops are very affordable. While pros might charge up to $85 per square foot, you can do it yourself for about $20. For instance, a 32-inch vanity top can cost around $50. This makes them a great choice for budget-friendly bathroom updates.

Aesthetic Appeal and Customization Options

Concrete vanity tops look amazing. You can pick the color, texture, and finish to match your bathroom. You can even add special objects or patterns for a unique look. With concrete, your creativity knows no bounds.

Interior designer Sarah Thompson says, “Concrete countertops let homeowners show off their creativity while keeping a modern look. Concrete’s flexibility makes it a great choice for many design styles.”

Materials and Tools Needed

I’m excited to share the essential items for creating a stunning concrete vanity top. Let’s dive into the materials and tools you’ll need for this DIY project.

For the concrete mix, you’ll need Portland cement, fine silica sand, and water. A typical 80-lb bag makes about 0.6 cubic feet of concrete. To figure out how much you need, multiply the length, depth, and thickness of your countertop.

For example, a 4-foot long, 2-foot deep, and 2-inch thick countertop needs about 2.23 bags.

Reinforcement materials are crucial for strength. You’ll need rebar or wire mesh. For form-building supplies, gather melamine-covered boards, rigid foam for sink and faucet openings, and silicone caulk. Don’t forget WD40 for easy form release.

Tools include:

• Saw and jigsaw for cutting
• Drill and impact driver
• Measuring tape and caulk gun
• Water sprayer and steel mixing bit
• Concrete trowel and 5-gallon buckets

Consider renting a concrete mixer for thorough blending with less effort. Now, let’s break down the costs for a 32″ vanity top:

With these materials and tools, you’re all set to create a beautiful and durable concrete vanity top. Remember, proper preparation is key to a successful project.

Preparing the Vanity Base

I’m excited to share my DIY concrete countertop journey. It begins with careful planning and precise measurements. My vanity base was 28″ wide by 20″ deep. I added a 1″ overhang, making the countertop 30″ wide by 22″ deep with a 2″ thickness.

Measuring and Planning

Getting the measurements right is key for success. I used a 24″ x 36″ melamine board as my mold base. I also cut extra pieces to 2 ¼” x 36″ and 2 ¼” x 27″. The total cost for materials was about $50, excluding the $40 sink and $40 faucet.

Building the Form

I used 3/4″ melamine boards for the mold, cutting strips to 2″ wide for the sides. Melamine’s smooth surface is ideal for a polished finish. I built the form with screws and sealed seams with black caulk to avoid leaks and ensure smooth edges. This step is vital for a flawless result.

Creating Sink and Faucet Openings

To make openings for the sink and faucet, I used a sink template for my Kohler Vox Rectangular Vessel Sink. I cut 1 ½” thick foam insulation to fit the sink shape. I glued multiple 2×2 pieces of ½” insulation together for strength. I also cut hardware cloth for added support, leaving a ½” to 1″ overhang around the sink. This method ensures accurate faucet hole placement and a perfect fit for the sink.

How to Pour a Concrete Vanity Top

I’ve poured many concrete vanity tops and I’m excited to share my knowledge. This DIY project takes about 2.5 hours, excluding drying time, and costs under $20. That’s a big saving compared to buying a new vanity or countertop. Let’s dive into the process.

Mixing the Concrete

For the perfect concrete mix, I use a 50/50 blend of countertop mix and Sakrete. I mix it by hand using a plastic mini snow shovel until it’s just right. This method has worked wonders for me over the years, ensuring a smooth, durable surface.

Pouring Techniques

When it comes to pouring, I’ve found that working in a heated garage is best, especially in cold weather. I create two forms using scrap wood or melamine, depending on the pour. Before pouring, I rough in the plumbing with PVC pipes for faucets and sink drains. This preparation is crucial for a successful project.

Leveling and Smoothing

For surface finishing, I apply about three coats of Henry’s Feather Finish, adjusting based on imperfections. Each coat and sanding cycle takes around 30 minutes. After pouring, I let the counter cure in the form for over a week before continuing the curing process outside the form. Finally, I apply a sealer to the concrete sink apron for added protection. This process has helped my DIY vanity tops last over five years, proving the durability of this cost-effective solution.