How do I make my concrete counter top shine again?

Diane
by Diane
My concrete counter tops are very dull where I have wiped them over the years. A few spots where spilled lemon juice has caused discoloration.
  9 answers
  • Ann marie Ann marie on Aug 05, 2016
    Do they have to be repolished?
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Aug 05, 2016
    Was the counter previously sealed?
  • Pam Pam on Aug 05, 2016
    I suggest adding a layer of bees wax on your counter. You can apply a layer of wax and let it soak in with a heat gun. Don't use the heat gun too close, but you'll see the change as it penetrates the concrete. It's the variation in color that adds character
  • Charlene Charlene on Aug 05, 2016
    Were they sealed when installed? If so check into resealing, if not take Pam's (from Mount Shasta) advice and use bees wax as she say's.
  • C&K Custom Remodeling C&K Custom Remodeling on Aug 05, 2016
    You need to clear well and seal with a good wet look or color enhancing stone sealer. I would recommend contacting a tile installer or a granite manufacturer for product recommendations.
  • Suellen Hintz Suellen Hintz on Aug 06, 2016
    Resealing should bring back the shine.
  • Cyndi Moore Tippett Cyndi Moore Tippett on Aug 06, 2016
    You need to seal it like you do grout except with a concrete sealer then use a paste wax, buff and wax, buff until you get a nice build up. You will need to do it every year for several years until the build up protects the concrete from your cleaners and wiping. Then you will need to not use your countertops while you are restoring. You can do it ... But it will be daunting.
  • Leslie Leslie on Aug 06, 2016
    If you google how to reseal a cement countertop you should get many hits. I have included a link to one Instructable. If you do not want to do this yourself get in touch with someone who does this for a living. You need to clean seal and re-wax the cement. Just using wax on the cement is not going to do the job. Good luck :) http://www.instructables.com/id/Sealing-Concrete-Countertops-More/
  • Lynn Lynn on Aug 06, 2016
    Sand off the existing finish with an electric sander. Use the finest grit available. Wipe up all the dust. Coat with two coats of Marine Varnish. Follow the directions very carefully on the can. Not only will your counter shine like mad, it will repel water and hold up to the most viscous stains for years!
    • Johnchip Johnchip on Aug 07, 2016
      Hint. That dust will go everywhere. Wear a mask and 'tent' the space as closed in as possible to keep the mess in place. in then seal with 2-3 Varathane (marine varnish)Will seal and keep your shine for years to come. Let cure thoroughly btwn coats. 1-2 days each..