How to Build-DIY Concrete Table
The West Elm coffee table I wanted for our outdoor patio was not within our budget. I thought I could make it for a fraction of the price, so I did! I decided against the “mold” method because I was concerned a solid concrete table would end up being too heavy. I came up with the idea to build the framework from pressure-treated pine and cover it with cement board and thinset. The total cost for the DIY concrete table was $100. Not too bad considering the inspiration table was ten times that price!
(Make sure to check out my IG story highlights and follow this project via VIDEO)
Materials
- Pressure treated pine
- Galvanized exterior screws
- Exterior construction adhesive
- Cement board
- Cement board screws
- Thinset
- Water
- Protective gear. (You should always wear a respirator and gloves when working with any type of concrete mixture.)
Tools
Build The Table Frame
First, decide on the size and design you want your table to be. I wanted a waterfall edge style so I built my frame to accordingly. You’re going to want to be sure there is NO movement in the frame. Don’t be afraid to add more screws than you normally would. I also used exterior construction adhesive on every piece I put together to give the table more stability. The reason you don’t want any movement in the table is if the framework moves under the thinnest it’s likely to crack.
Add The Cement Board
This step will seem complicated, but it is actually simple. Measure the area of the table that will be covered in cement board. Take the measurement and draw it directly on your cement board outlining where you will be making cuts with the grinder. (An angle grinder is a specific tool for cutting other materials than wood.) Cut the cement board to size using an angle grinder with a diamond blade.
Be sure you wear a protective respirator when cutting. The dust is not safe to breathe in. Once your cement board is cut apply the construction adhesive to the framework and install the board using cement board screws. These screws are designed to grip to the cement and will not burrow out a hole like standard screws typically do. Continue adding the cement board onto your frame.
Thin Set
The last step is to apply the thin-set to the cement board. This step is easy and you should move along quickly. Get a 5-gallon bucket and mix up the thin-set. You want the consistency to be like frosting. Use a trowel to apply the thin-set to the cement board where you anticipate the concrete will be. You’re going to want to work fast, but also take your time to make sure all of the thin-set is smooth.
Once the thin-set has hardened to the point that the material feels like clay, you’re going to want to grab a wet sponge and smooth out the material. This will make your table feel and look really smooth! Wait until it’s completely set to move.
