Concrete delivers a sleek industrial look for this DIY concrete countertop project. We’ll present step-by-step instructions to build the concrete countertop forms, mix and pour concrete, add shelves, and complete the plumbing.

    With a few tools, you can create durable outdoor concrete countertops that withstand adverse weather conditions and extend your outdoor living space.

    An outdoor potting counter provides a dedicated spot to repot plants and flowers. It expands your home’s outdoor living area into the backyard or patio.  This DIY project can be built with wood or concrete. However, concrete counters provide a sleek, modern design that withstands outdoor weather conditions. Concrete countertops are long-lasting, easy to clean, and available in various concrete countertop colors and decorative concrete designs.

    With some melamine boards, concrete mix, and hardware, homeowners can create an outdoor potting counter featuring durable concrete countertops. The DIY project begins by constructing concrete countertop forms from melamine and dry-erase board. After sealing the forms, pour concrete and finish the concrete countertop. Then erect concrete blocks to form the base before covering with a final concrete skin. Add shelves, sink hardware, and a hose, and your industrial potting counter with concrete countertops is complete and ready for years of use. 

    If you’re up for a weekend DIY project, this is a complete guide for homeowners to construct an outdoor potting counter with concrete.  With care and attention to detail, you can enjoy using this concrete outdoor potting counter for all your gardening activities.


    Materials

    • Quikrete Concrete Countertop Mix
    • Quikrete Quikwall 
    • Quikrete Construction Adhesive
    • Quikrete Waterproofing Sealer
    • 2x4s
    • Concrete Blocks
    • Stainless Steel Screws
    • Melamine Dry Erase Board
    • Hot Glue Gun
    • Wire Mesh
    • Rigid Foam Insulation
    • Sink Pipes and Fittings
    • Glue
    • Trowel
    • Caulk Gun
    • Watering Can
    • Pipe Splitter
    • Drill
    • Orbital Sander
    • Safety Glasses
    • Nitrile Gloves
    cutting melamine strips and dry-erase board

    Building the Forms

    Constructing the mold is the critical first step in creating a concrete countertop. Careful planning and sealing of the forms enables smooth pouring and release of the finished concrete.

    gluing  melamine strips and dry-erase board pieces

    Begin by cutting the melamine strips and dry-erase board to sizes that will fit your space.

    After cutting the melamine, shape, and glue pieces together into a countertop form. Apply hot glue from a glue gun to fuse boards at corners and seams. For added strength, place spare 2×4 blocks under overhangs or thinner areas.

    Next, trace the outline for the sink and cut a sink hole from a piece of dry-erase board. The dry-erase board resists water damage. Glue the sink form in place where you want your basin located.

    Seal all seams and edges with silicone caulk. This prevents leaks when you pour concrete. Carefully apply caulk and smooth out excess with a wet finger for best results.

    The last step is to screw a layer of 2x4s on top of the form. This gives the concrete countertop extra strength. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent melamine from splitting when driving screws. Center boards along the form and space screws every 6 to 12 inches.

    With watertight forms and a sturdy surface established, you’re ready to pour concrete.

    concrete form

    Mixing and Pouring Concrete

    With sturdy, leak-proof forms ready, it’s time to prepare the concrete itself. Quikrete Countertop Mix delivers an ideal texture for pouring concrete countertops. Follow all package directions closely when mixing Quickrete. When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves. 

    Working in batches, fill the form one to two inches deep with concrete and distribute evenly. Insert pieces of wire mesh for reinforcement before adding the remaining concrete. Push concrete into corners using a dowel to eliminate air bubbles and voids.

    Once the form is full, screed the top with a straight 2×4. Move across the concrete in a sawing motion to level. For a smooth finish, pass a trowel over the surface. An orbital sander without a pad also works to vibrate and settle concrete.

    releasing melamine

    Cover the concrete countertop form with polyethylene plastic sheeting and allow concrete to cure undisturbed for at least 18 hours.

    Mist the plastic with water to prevent premature drying. After concrete has hardened, carefully remove forms and sand rough edges.


    Building the Base

    With concrete countertops cast, build up the support structure. Arrange concrete blocks to the desired height in a corner formation. Use Quikwall cement to level and bond blocks. Mix to a stiff, mortar-like consistency and trowel 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Smooth Quikwall creates a uniform finish over the blocks. For full instructions on how to apply QuikWall, click here.

    After the blocks fully cure, lift the concrete countertop piece on top. Fasten to blocks using brackets and construction adhesive. Allow adhesive to set overnight before applying weight on the concrete counter. QuikWall must cure for 30 days before you can apply brackets. Reduce wait time by applying the brackets directly to the concrete block, before placing QuikWall.

    man with trowe

    Your next step in this DIY project is to construct shelves to provide storage space. Cut shelving boards to size and screw into brackets mounted on blocks. Sand edges smooth and finish shelves with protective sealer.


    Plumbing and Finishing Touches

    Finally, it’s time to add the final details to complete your potting counter with concrete countertops.  Install sink drain pipes and splitter to enable hose attachment. A splitter lets you connect both a watering can and a garden hose.

    Seal the concrete countertops using Quikrete Waterproofing Sealer. This protects the finish from outdoor weather conditions and makes cleaning easier. Apply at least two coats following label directions.

    Your custom potting station with strong concrete countertops is ready for all your gardening needs. The durable build withstands frequent use outdoors in all weather conditions.  Add a portable propane cooktop, and the counter easily converts into an outdoor kitchen! With core materials on hand, you can tackle this weekend DIY project in 2 days and the industrial design works in any outdoor living space.


    Tips for Success

    Follow these tips to ensure your concrete counter potting station turns out as planned:

    1. Seal all melamine form seams with silicone caulk to prevent leaks
    2. Reinforce top of forms with 2x4s screwed at least every 12 inches
    3. Make sure concrete fully fills forms and taps down into corners
    4. Let concrete cure fully for 24 hours before removing concrete countertop forms
    5. Wear waterproof gloves and safety goggles when working with concrete
    6. Level and bond blocks with Quikwall according to package instructions
    7. Use brackets and construction adhesive to secure concrete countertop to base
    8. Allow adhesive to cure overnight before placing weight on the concrete counter
    9. Apply waterproofing sealer to finished concrete for weather protection
    10. Install drain plumbing and splitter to enable both hose and watering can
    11. Consider premade polymer concrete as an alternative to poured concrete

    Conclusion

    In summary, a DIY concrete countertops potting station makes an excellent weekend project for the avid gardener. With melamine forms, concrete mix, and basic tools, you can create durable, stylish concrete countertops for your patio. The industrial material provides a modern touch to any outdoor living space. Follow instructions carefully when constructing forms, mixing concrete, and erecting the base. Once complete, you’ll have personalized potting counters ready for soil, plants, and other gardening fun.


    Get answers to common questions about constructing your own concrete countertop potting station.

    FAQs About Building a Concrete Potting Counter

    What thickness should the concrete countertop be?

    Pour concrete 2 to 3 inches thick for best durability. This prevents cracking or breaking, especially on a freestanding application.


    How long does it take concrete to fully cure?

    Allow concrete to cure undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours. It reaches full strength in 28 days. Don’t place heavy loads on the concrete countertop until the concrete has hardened.


    What materials can be used to build the base?

    Concrete block provides an inexpensive base option for concrete countertops.  Brick, poured concrete, or stone can also support the concrete countertop section.


    What maintenance does a concrete countertop need?

    Reseal outdoor concrete countertops annually with waterproofing sealer. This prevents damage from moisture, weather conditions, and ultraviolet light. Routinely clean concrete counters with mild soap and water.


    Can concrete counters be dyed or stained?

    Yes. For a decorative concrete look, add liquid cement color when mixing concrete for custom colors or apply specialty concrete stains after it has cured.


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    avatar for Laurie Engle

    Laurie Engle

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    Laurie Engle is a freelance writer who provides insights to homeowners on topics such as the home warranty industry, relocation issues, and real estate trends. As a licensed Realtor since 2001 Laurie has acquired extensive expertise in dealing with home warranty companies and navigating the intricacies of the real estate market. In addition to her commitment to helping clients with their home buying and selling needs, she maintains a sharp awareness of market dynamics, including property values, interest rates, and local regulations.

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    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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