Achieve A Glossy Finish By Waxing Your Concrete Kitchen Countertops

Concrete kitchen countertops have become a really popular choice with homeowners lately, and it's easy to see why. They're super durable, budget-friendly, and bring a cool industrial-chic vibe to your space. That said, if you want to take them to the next level, then adding a glossy, polished finish can really elevate the look. One of the easiest ways to get that sleek, shiny surface? Waxing. Not only does it give your countertops a beautiful shine, but it also adds an extra layer of protection to keep them looking great for longer. Concrete is naturally porous, so one of the downsides of concrete countertops is that they can soak up liquids and stains pretty easily if they're not treated. 

During the installation process, a concrete sealer is usually applied, which acts as a barrier to repel water, oils, and other kitchen substances that can penetrate the concrete. While wax can improve the look of your concrete countertop by highlighting its colors and textures, it is not a substitute for a concrete sealer and won't protect against stains or scratches on its own. To keep them in top share, regular resealing is required every six months to 2 years, along with a monthly wax routine. If you're ready to give waxing a try, you'll need a food-safe concrete countertop wax (such as Cheng Concrete Countertop Wax from Amazon for $32.95), a lint-free cloth (such as microfiber), a buffing pad (optional), and clean water and a mild detergent to clean your countertops before applying the wax. 

Before you get started with the waxing, ensure that your countertop is completely clean. Grab a mild detergent and some warm water, and wipe away any dirt or grease. Once it's spotless, give it time to dry completely before moving to the next step. Wet your cloth and wring it out really well, then scoop a small amount of concrete wax. Begin applying it to the surface in circular motions, working in small sections. The goal is to cover the entire countertop evenly without overdoing it. Too much wax can leave streaks, so aim for a thin, even layer. Once you've applied the wax, let it sit for about 15 minutes. This gives it time to bond to the concrete surface properly.

After the wax has set, it's time to buff! Use a clean, lint-free cloth or, if you have one, a mechanical buffing pad. Buff in circular motions until the countertop looks smooth and glossy. For the best results, you'll want to apply three coats of wax, buffing after each one. Multiple layers will provide better protection and a shinier finish. To keep the surface looking its best, reapply the wax every few months or whenever you notice the shine fading. Try to avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, as they can damage the surface. Concrete is one of the hardest countertop materials to keep clean, so it's important to always clean up spills right away, especially from substances like wine, lemon juice, and coffee.