Is Quikrete Countertop Mix A Good DIY Option?

Concrete countertops are becoming increasingly popular. In addition to promising affordability and durability, they can be customized in a host of different ways so each piece can be truly unique. They can be pre-formed or cast in place, making them a versatile DIY option for the kitchen, bathroom, bar, or outdoor cooking area.

One key element among the essential things to consider before building concrete countertops is the type of concrete. The wrong mix can result in a poor surface that cracks and lacks strength. To solve the problem and provide a simple, consistent product for both DIYers and contractors, Quikrete introduced its countertop mix. The company says all you need to do is add water.

It sounds like the ideal solution — a carefully formulated product that's low cost (under $20 for an 80-pound bag), is easy to work with, creates a strong slab, and can be created with different colors and textures. The big question for many will be whether it lives up to the claims. Is Quikrete countertop mix actually a good DIY option, or is it something you'll want to avoid? Sadly, the answer isn't as straightforward as you might like. While it's certainly a safer bet than mixing your own cement and aggregates, not everyone is a fan.

To get some real-world feedback, we checked with customers at Lowe's (where the majority of reviews are positive) and Home Depot (where it's closer to 50-50). A number of people found the mix didn't flow as easily as expected and required extra water. Unfortunately, that can weaken the finished concrete. Many felt that those with some experience were more likely to be successful, and test pours were recommended to get used to how the Quikrete countertop mix behaves. However, for some, that contradicts the idea of what a DIY-friendly product should be.

Customizing Quikrete countertop mix might also be considered a task better suited to contractors, as it's often necessary to grind the surface to properly reveal any additives. That said, it is possible to paint concrete countertops for a fresh look, and epoxies can create a faux marble effect. So some finish choices remain within the scope of DIYers. It's also worth noting that Quikrete countertop mix takes 28 days to reach full strength.

So whether Quikrete countertop mix is a good DIY option seems to largely depend on the skill level of the user. Those with an understanding of concrete casting appear very happy with the results they achieve. Novices might want to think hard about what is really needed to DIY concrete countertops, including tools, materials, and creating the mold. It may not be quite as simple or as economical as first imagined.