How To Make A Faux Granite Table Tops

Faux granite table tops are a brilliant way to bring the elegance and luxury of natural stone into your home without the hefty price tag but possibly the heavy lifting. These tables are crafted to mimic the look of real stone, whether granite or marble, and they provide a stunning focal point in any room or outdoor space. The beauty of faux granite or other styles of finishes is in its versatility and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts.

How To Make A Faux Granite Table Tops & Skill Level

Creating a faux granite table top is an achievable task for anyone with a bit of patience and some basic skills. This DIY project offers a rewarding experience, as you can customize the table to fit your specific style and space needs. Whether you want a grand dining table or a sleek coffee table, faux stone allows for endless customization options.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making your own faux granite table tops. We’ll start by discussing the various types of faux stone tables, their uses, and how they can fit into your interior or exterior spaces. Next, we’ll delve into the finishing techniques that ensure your table top not only looks good but lasts long. We’ll also provide practical tips on how to pour and assemble your table for a professional finish. Finally, we’ll touch upon maintaining your faux granite stone table to keep it looking pristine for years to come.

Exploring the Different Types of Faux Stone Tables & Finishes

When it comes to faux granite table tops and their final finish, the variety is extensive. Understanding what’s achievable will help you select the best option for your needs.

The first consideration is table size and application. Small tables, such as side tables or coffee tables, Or the, larger tables, like dining tables or conference tables, which become the centrepieces of a room. These command attention and are perfect for making a bold statement. Because you know your own skills, you are in full control of what you make. The size or shape is what you decide.

Round, oval, square, free form or oblong are just some basic shapes to consider. Free form is the easiest for most as it’s any shape you wish, no accurate corners or exact measurements are really needed. They use this term in the pool construction world too.

Once you have chosen your table’s use and shape it will also mean you know whether it’s going to be used inside or out. Fauxstone tables are versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use. The considerations for both locations are similar, except for the potential UV and winterisation for any that may be intended for outdoor locations.

The finishing possibilities are numerous when it comes to faux granite table tops. It will be your choice of colors and aggregates that determine the final appearance of your tabletop more than your final sealing coats. You can opt for a high-gloss finish that replicates polished granite or a matte finish for a more subdued, natural look.

Consider how these finishes will blend with other pieces in the room. If shades and finishes are critical we would recommend running some sample pieces first. If you go that route remember to record all the details of your mix, preferably in measurements that you can scale up with ease. And test out your final coatings too.

A great place to look for colored gravels is at Resin driveway suppliers, you need clean and dried stones for best result. These are 2 links for such Suppliers. We recommend the larger granule of the two. And as you will see you can get really creative with color.

To choose colors, visit a granite countertop store and collect small samples of the granites you like. Then, match your granules to the colors in the real granite. Many of these granules are actually by-products from granite slab mining or production

How To Make A Faux Granite Table Tops & Your Mold.

Many considerations for these points are the same as in the recent post for countertops follow the link to read about suggested mix ideas and edge details. Countertops. There are some decorative edge details available online if you follow this link.

Additional points for your mold that should be followed are:

1, Definitely setting up your mold on a smooth and level finished work table as this will be the face of your mold and so your table top too.

2, A simpler edge detail will help to avoid sharp edges and air pockets.

3, Ample reinforcing can be easily achieved with the right concrete fibers and depending on the size a may be a few fiberglass rebars. And/or a layer of 1/2″-3/4″ Marine plywood. The plywood would need a coat of PVA bonding agent and many galvanised clout headnails, with the heads sticking up to assist with keying the plywood to the concrete. Also, drill a few air holes about every 16″ in all directions. The plywood achieves 2 major points. weight reduction and giving the top strength for moving it around.

4, The right mold release for the top of your work table. and edge pieces.

It’s best To Avoid Round

Something that perhaps you should think about is round versa other shaped tops. It is generally recognised that making something round is far more difficult unless you have the correct knowledge and tools. If you still wish to go with a round top it might be worth investing in a cheap plastic patio table and building your mold from that.

Send us a message if you need the “how to “on this method.

Once you have all the elements of your mold set up your are ready to move on to the mixing and pouring of your top.

Mixes and Pouring For How To Make A Faux Granite Table Tops

When you start to batch your mix for the pour of your faux granite table top. This where all the preparation meets your goals. Have all your tools to hand, scoop, straightedge, and both a magnesium and steel trowel, and your plywood insert all prepped. When you have made your mix, which would be based on a 3-1 ratio and with no bigger than 3/8″ aggregates and the right concrete fibers, you’re ready to pour. Do this steadily and work around your edges first. This helps reduce air bubbles or larger voids and then evenly spread the mix across the whole surface. Top it off as required and use your straight edge to see if your close. Leave enough space to place your plywood in the mold if you are using any. Don’t hang around, place your plywood in and then start to go around your edges first, tapping them with a mallet or hammer to raise any air bubbles. then do the same on top of your plywood, now you should see the benefit of the airholes come into play.

The object is to finish up with your plywood dead level with your edges, place some additional wood runners across and weigh or screw them down to stop the plywood from floating up, then screed and then using your magnesium trowel for the first troweling, go around any areas left exposed. Let it set a little longer and trowel it with your steel trowel, you might have to do this at least twice.

Once your pour is complete, let the material cure according to the local climate or room temperature. The temptation is to want to see your piece, but rushing at this point can lead to damage to your top. After a couple of days, you could remove your weights or screws holding the plywood. Then wait another day or 2 and strip your edges carefully. While curing wetting down with a little water will help to give your concrete strength. After 7-10 days, depending on climate and the size of the top, it is ready to move and turn it over and place on some battens to leave a clear gap around the whole of the edge

Finishing Techniques for Faux Granite

Depending on what the intent of your final finish is, now is the time to start the post-pour finishing. One method is to acid etch the surface to expose the aggregates below using Muriatic pool acid. If you are using this method take it outside, and wear all the proper safety equipment and have a box of Arm & Hammer baking soda handy as a neutraliser and a hosepipe.

This is also the method used in one version of concrete staining which is not covered in this post.

The second choice is to grind and polish your surface similar to how real granites are prepared only with bigger machines. It’s not as hard as it sounds but you need a few tools and it is a little messy, but the rewards are great. As 99% of the time your final top will be coated with a resin which covers up many imperfections, you can get through this task quite quickly. Using a small 4 1/2″ grinder works but there are machines that you can rent similar to the one in this picture. Just avoid lippage lines and groves.

When you are happy with what you see you must now let it dry thoroughly before you move on to apply the resin top coat.

The benefits of using resin are numerous. Firstly, it creates an extremely durable surface that can withstand daily wear and tear. Secondly, the glossy finish enhances the faux stone’s natural beauty, making it look even more convincing. Additionally, resin-coated surfaces are easy to clean and maintain, requiring just a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth.

It’s essential to work in a clean, dust-free environment to prevent any particles from getting trapped in or landing on the resin surface. We believe that a 2-part epoxy approved for contact with food is the best type of product for this task. And if it is going outside then make sure a UV-resistant epoxy is chosen.

Begin by preparing your table surface. Ensure it’s clean, dry, and smooth as any ridge lines will show through the resin. Mix the resin and hardener according to the instructions on the packaging. Pour the mixture onto the tabletop and spread it evenly using a trowel, making sure to cover the entire surface and your edges. You can add various type of small flakes or small granules st this stage, and finish with 2nd coat.

Allow the resin to self-level. This is crucial for a smooth, even finish. You may need to pop any air bubbles that form using a small torch or heat gun. Patience is key here, so take your time to get it right. But be aware of your product’s working time. You will get a little dripping occurring around the edge detail so that is why we raised it up a little earlier. Go around and keep scraping any of these off before it sets. It’s a lot easier at this point,

Those who prefer a matte finish should consider using a matte resin topcoat. This can give your table a more understated look while still providing the protection and durability that resin offers.

Overall, mastering the art of resin coating will take your faux granite table tops to the next level, ensuring they are both beautiful and long-lasting. And as mentioned earlier, making up some test pieces before you start, gives you plenty of opportunity to experiment.

Maintenance For Faux Granite Table Tops

Maintaining your faux granite table tops is straightforward but essential for longevity. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth will keep them looking their best. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing pads, as these can damage the finish. For outdoor tables, besides the UV-Epoxy, it doesn’t hurt to keep it covered when not in use for longer periods. In certain instances and with the right product and tools you can buff your tops.

Conclusion and Future Topics

Reflecting on what we’ve covered, it’s clear that creating a faux granite table top is not only a rewarding DIY project but also an opportunity to customize and enhance your living spaces. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek coffee table to elevate your living room or a full-height dining table to become the focal point of family gatherings, the versatility and beauty of faux granite can’t be overstated.

From understanding the different styles of faux stone tables and their designed shapes. To mastering the art of finishing with resin, you’ve gained insights to start your own project with confidence. The practical tips for pouring are designed to ensure your table looks professional and lasts through years of use. Maintenance, though straightforward, is crucial to preserving its charm and durability.

Looking ahead, stay tuned for our future article focused on table bases. We’ll explore a range of ideas from simple designs to more intricate concepts, providing you with inspiration and guidance for your next project. Crafting the perfect base is equally important as it enhances both style and functionality.

Dive into the world of DIY faux stone projects, and start creating pieces that reflect your taste and creativity. Your journey into crafting your own faux granite table is just the beginning.