When décor, DIY and thrift influencer Tasha Gervais moved into her home she hated the outdated colors of the countertops in both her kitchen and primary bathroom. The DIYer frantically searched the Internet for options. When she discovered countertop kits from Daich Coatings, she breathed a sigh of relief and then took her followers along for the step-by-step projects.
Bathroom Changes
Starting in her bathroom, the goal was a full room transformation. Gervais painted old walnut cabinets a lighter color, changed out mirrors and used the SpreadStone™ Mineral Select Countertop Kit in Natural White to get a cleaner look to the room.
“SpreadStone was quite easy to apply,” says Gervais, who lives in North Carolina. “The steps were simple and didn’t require much skill, just reading the directions closely. Having an orbital sander on hand for the sanding portion was very helpful. I could have done the sanding by hand, but it would have taken a lot longer.”
SpreadStone provides a speckled stone appearance, with a final finish that can be smooth or textured, based on the desire of the person applying the product. The result is a lower sheen, natural stone slab look that can be used in both interior and exterior locations. SpreadStone finishes can be achieved in a four-step application process within a weekend.
“This kit costs about $145,” says Gervais. “The value of the product is absolutely incredible for the impact it can make on a countertop. SpreadStone made a world of difference in our bathroom without having to replace anything. I especially like the natural feel of it since it’s not a super smooth glossy surface.”
On to the Kitchen
Obviously a larger project, Gervais next tackled her family’s kitchen. She described the project as a “no demo renovation” to update the dark, orangey 1987 kitchen into a brighter, more welcoming space.
When it came to the countertops and kitchen island, Gervais started by laying down a coat of ElastoLock® from Daich Coating. The rubber membrane was needed on top of the granite to add a surface that Gervais’ countertop choice, the LuxROCKTM Solid Surface Granite Countertop Kit, could “grab onto” during the installation process. Her desire for a lighter kitchen area led Gervais to select the Platinum White LuxROCK color of authentic granite highlighted by attractive sparkling mineral accents.
“The LuxROCK countertops made a true world of difference in the look of the kitchen,” says Gervais. “We moved from outdated orangey to fresh white with neutral stones. It’s a breath of fresh air that was so worth the effort.
“I found LuxROCK to be on the low end of an intermediate-level application process. While some general experience with using a brush and roller are helpful, and moving a sander around smoothly is necessary, the steps themselves are easy to follow. The final topcoat is a bit tricky to get smooth. However, going slowly and taking your time helps get the desired results.”
The LuxROCK kit, covering about 40 square feet of space, retails for about $300. According to Gervais, it’s worth the investment. “The price for this product versus the huge difference it makes on your countertop is a no-brainer,” says Gervais. “LuxROCK is the perfect product if you want a drastic change in look but you are not ready to renovate.”
SpreadStone vs. LuxROCK
Surfaces created with both Daich Coatings products offer excellent resistance to stains, hot pans, and demanding daily use. This can include impact, abrasion and household cleaners. In addition, the coatings are mainly water-based, with low VOC formulations, emitting low odors during application. All kits can be applied over old laminate, wood, concrete, tile or MDF surfaces. The final surface of each Daich Coatings product is kept food safe and intact with a polyurethane clear coat.
Following her experience using both kits, Gervais finds it difficult to determine which of the surface results she prefers.
“My husband likes the smooth finish of LuxROCK,” says Gervais. “I also love it, but I really like the natural feel of the SpreadStone. It somehow reminds me of a spa. They’re different, but both are very appealing.
“If you’re looking for ease, SpreadStone was simpler and a bit faster because there are fewer steps. But LuxROCK wasn’t too hard, and still only took a handful of days with outstanding results! The great thing is that you have everything needed in the kits for a successful project as long as you do the prep work and follow the instructions.”
Daich Coatings countertop kits and decorative concrete products are available online at The Home Depot®, Lowe’s® and at www.daichcoatings.com.
