Epoxy countertops are durable and can be applied over any type of surface. They’re also easy to clean, and since epoxy doesn’t absorb moisture, your countertop won’t get ruined by leaks.
The only downside is that they’re expensive to install and require professional installation. If you’d like to save money by doing it yourself, read on!
This article will tell you everything you need to know about making your own epoxy countertops at home.
Do it yourself epoxy countertops?
Epoxy countertops are durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. They can be installed over existing countertops to give your kitchen or bathroom a new look.
Epoxy is also easy to repair, so if you have an accident with the epoxy, it’s not hard to fix it up!
Epoxy is also easy to install — this makes them very popular for DIY projects! If you want your own personalized look, you can make custom designs with epoxy colors and patterns.
Table of Contents
- Do it yourself epoxy countertops?
- What do I need to epoxy my countertop?
- How much does it cost to make an epoxy countertop?
- What kind of epoxy do you use on countertops?
- How long do epoxy countertops last?
- How thick should epoxy countertop be?
- Can you cut on epoxy countertops?
- How do you prime a countertop before epoxy?
What do I need to epoxy my countertop?
You will need:
- Epoxy resin
- Hardener
- Mixing cups and sticks
- Scraper (wooden paint stirrer works well)
- Gloves (disposable or non-latex)
- Disposable paint brush for mixing resin and hardener, as well as for applying epoxy to the countertop. You can also use a regular paint brush if you don’t have one handy and are okay with it getting ruined while working on the project.
- Masking paper or tape if desired; ideally, you’ll want to mask off your counters so that they won’t get epoxied in addition to what you’re actually working on.
- Safety glasses should always be worn when doing any chemical work!
How much does it cost to make an epoxy countertop?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 for an epoxy countertop. This number will vary based on your location, the size of your project, and whether or not you want special finishes.
If you’re looking at granite countertops, you can expect to pay between $500 and $3,000 depending on your location and the type of stone that’s best for your kitchen space.
If you’re interested in regular concrete countertops instead—which aren’t as expensive as either granite or epoxy—the cost will be closer to $250 per square foot plus installation expenses if needed.
In other words: if you want something cheaper than an epoxy solution but still want a durable surface that looks great too (and won’t break), then concrete might be worth considering!
What kind of epoxy do you use on countertops?
Epoxy is a two-part resin that is mixed and applied to the surface. It’s easy to apply, durable and waterproof, and it’s easy to maintain.
Epoxy comes in different colors, so you can choose your desired color when ordering epoxy at a hardware store or home improvement store.
If you want a clear countertop that is resistant to heat and cold damage, it is recommended that you use the right kind of epoxy for your countertops.
There are many different kinds of epoxies on the market today: solid resin (which does not contain any solvents), solvent-based products (which contain some type of solvent), two-part resins (these work well with concrete surfaces), etc., all depending on what type of material/surface one wants to coat with them!
How long do epoxy countertops last?
Epoxy countertops are durable, but not indestructible. They can last for decades if properly cared for. You should seal them every few years to keep them looking fresh and new, depending on the quality of your initial sealant application.
If you have an epoxy countertop that has been damaged and needs some repairs then you will need a professional to do this work.
The cost may be more than what it would cost to install a new epoxy countertop so it’s essential that you know what type of work needs to be done before calling a contractor.
How thick should epoxy countertop be?
The thickness of the epoxy countertop depends on the size of your countertop. Usually, the larger is the countertop, the thicker it should be.
However, there are other factors to consider before deciding which thickness you want for your kitchen project.
Thicker epoxy countertops are more durable and strong than thinner ones, but they are also harder to install and maintain.
If you want a DIY project done right and quickly, then you will probably need to go with a thinner epoxy material that has good durability but isn’t too difficult to work with.
Can you cut on epoxy countertops?
If you’re careful, you can cut on your new epoxy countertops. However, it’s important to use a cutting board and a sharp blade (a utility knife works well).
To avoid scratching the countertop, gently place the board over the area you want to cut and slowly push down with pressure until you’ve completed your cut.
When done cooking or eating at the table, use sandpaper to smooth out any scratches that may have occurred.
How do you prime a countertop before epoxy?
- Prime the countertop with a good primer before you apply the epoxy.
- Prime both sides of your epoxy sheet, and make sure they’re dry before you put them down.
- Use a top coat of clear epoxy to seal in any flaws or errors in your design.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to make your kitchen look new again, consider epoxy countertops. They are an affordable option that will last for years and look great in any kitchen.
The best part about these types of counters is that they can be customized with different colors or patterns so that they match the rest of your decorating scheme perfectly!