Just How Well Do DIY Counter Tops Hold Up?

Abby Feistel
by Abby Feistel
I get asked this question a lot. People like the idea of an inexpensive solution for new counter tops....but it's also kind of scary to venture outside the realm of regular store bought ones. Ten months after installing our wood counter tops I'm revisiting just how well they've held up for me.
ten months after installing counter tops using just plain wood from the lumber section
six coats of poly keep them nice and durable for everyday use
counter tops before staining and poly
Abby Feistel
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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  2 questions
  • Sierra Sierra on Mar 29, 2018

    Hey there, how thick is the wood used for your project? And what did you use to get the wood to be permanently placed down as the counter top?

  • Rachael Simmons Rachael Simmons on Dec 12, 2018

    What brand and color of stain did you use??

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  • Dianne Dianne on Nov 15, 2016
    On my kitchen countertop, can I replace just the colored top? I have some additional piece I found in my garage. I took off 3 inched next to the new range. I now believe I can add the 3 inches of wood with support underneath, how can I seamlessly put my scrap on. Should it be a straight 3 inches or should I go back to the first right angle so it has 10 inches . Would that be less noticeable? Will a heat gun soften the glue underneath? I don't want to use paint.
  • Dianne Dianne on Nov 15, 2016
    I am refinishing my kitchen and took off all pecan stain and left them blonde. I like it. I raised my cabinets 3 inches to line up with the top cabinet over my refrigerator. I also put them out 2 inches more to accommodate the newer turntables they now have. I used grey with blue tone in the kitchen, dining, and living and hallways. I did consider that I color so I am using the tip.
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