When tackling home improvements, you can always expect expenses that can quickly become pretty extreme. The bathroom and the kitchen are usually the two most expensive areas to work in, because they are the areas that usually require more than a coat of paint and new flooring. If you look beyond the “fixtures” and appliances that belong in those areas, the kitchen can easily become the most expensive because of the fact you need cabinets and counters. What you may not consider is that you can save money and create your own amazing countertops.
The Cost of Countertops
In most areas, the average price for something like granite countertops is going to average $40-$60 per square foot, just to buy the slab, but some different types of granite could easily cost you more. It depends on the thickness of the slab you want and various other things. Considering most homeowners want a ton of counter space in their kitchen area for food prep and storage, the cost to replace old counters can end up through the roof. For this reason, there are many homeowners who are opting to ditch the traditional countertop. They are getting creative and discovering new ways to build their own. Doing so not only cuts costs, but it allows them to have something truly unique.
DIY Countertops
Most countertops that you purchase are slabs of stone or something similar. Instead of going with the traditional, you can get creative within your home. A lot of people are choosing to use concrete to create their kitchen counters, but there are also those who use wood slats and stones, floor tiles, regular tiles, and more. They simply find cheap materials and think outside of the box on how to make their kitchen counters look amazing. Can you imagine having a counter that is covered in solid colored tiles with a mosaic around the edge or one that is done using different colors of wooden slats? Perhaps you would prefer cement with stones that are laid in such a way as to create a pattern. You can do anything you want, but you will have to learn how to protect the counter tops.
Protecting Your Creation
DIY counter tops are perfect for helping you save money on kitchen remodels. It also allows you to create something that is truly unique to your home. This is why you have to protect what you have created. The best way to do this to use epoxy, but many homeowners often spend more time wondering how to epoxy countertops than actually using it. The truth is, epoxy isn’t something you should dread working with. For the most part, it is very simple to use if you follow the instructions on mixing and pouring it. It will add a protective layer over the counter to ensure that your creation will last for many years to come. It will also help your counter to avoid stains, resist burns, and more. As a bonus, when you are done expressing your creativity, you will have a countertop that you are proud to show off.