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2" Splitface Granite Countertop Edge Form
DESCRIPTION AND BASIC USE • MATCRETE® Split Face Granite Countertop Edge Forms™ create realistic relief and detail for concrete countertop edges. These forms are re-usable and ideal for making beautiful edges on countertops and tables. Because they are extremely flexible, Split Face Granite Countertop Edge Forms easily wrap around corners without mitering and can also be used on plywood or melamine to free form any shape of table or countertop.
LIMITATIONS • Some types of solvent-based form oils may cause integrally colored concrete to appear uneven or discolored.
SIZES • Split Face Granite Countertop Edge Forms are available in 2" high x 96" lengths.
STORAGE • Store in a safe place. Do not store in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Store Edge Forms horizontally.
REINFORCEMENT • 1/2" thick plywood foundation is recommended for cast-in-place installations and melamine is recommended for precast applications. Reinforcement must be used in the center of the slab and all re-entrant corners and narrow strip sections around sinks and ranges. 4" x 4" x 6 gauge wire mesh for the centers and pencil rod or #3 bar, 1/4" below the surface for corners and strips are recommended.
PREPARATION FOR EDGE FORM INSTALLATION • Preparation techniques may vary according to type of application. To properly release forms, the use of a powder antique release agent, a compatible water-based form oil or non-stick cooking spray is recommended. Apply bond breaker approximately 5 - 15 minutes prior to placing concrete. To insure a strong edge, plywood decking should be cut at a 45° angle. Attach 2" x 4" to structure with screws or double sided tape. Top edge of 2" x 4" should be flush with top edge of structure. The Edge Form will rest on top of 2" x 4". Using screws, attach 1" x 6" to 2" x 4". Bottom edge of 1" x 6" should be flush with the bottom edge of the 2" x 4". The backside of the Textured Edge Form will butt against the inside of 1" x 6". Attach Edge Form by using 1-1/2" drywall screws, drilling into the wood and partially penetrating the backside of the liner. Use enough screws to secure each form, spacing approximately 12" - 14" apart. Care must be taken not to allow screws to protrude through the textured side of the liner.
PREPARATION OF CONCRETE • The concrete should be designed to meet the strength and finishing requirements of the project with a slump of 4 to 6 inches, achieved by using a water reducer. The higher slump allows the mix to flow easier, increasing detail. Use of a plasticizer will minimize air voids. Avoid overly sandy mixes or mixes with high air-entrainment. These types of mixes can be sticky and promote bug holes. Pea gravel is recommended in the mix since oversized aggregate can cause chipping or honeycombing on the vertical surface.
CONCRETE PLACEMENT • Once the concrete is placed and leveled out, the use of a palm sander along the backside of form or concrete vibrator along the inside edge of the Edge Form is recommended. The use of a concrete vibrator will help eliminate honeycombing and promote a smoother finish. Use a straight edge to screed off excess concrete then float and trowell to the desired finish.
EDGE FORM REMOVAL • Split Face Granite Countertop Edge Forms should be stripped as soon as is structurally possible without marring, usually a minimum of 24 hours after the concrete has been poured.
CURING • Cover the surface with 1 mil poly after final troweling. Longer sections deserve longer cure times to minimize shrinkage and curling. Keep the surface wet, covered for as long as practical, and allow sufficient dry time before sealing.
POLISHING • Allow the concrete to cure for a minimum of 4 days at normal temperatures before polishing. Consider using a liquid densifier to strengthen concrete. Start polishing with a diamond cup wheel or something equivalent, this will help with the leveling and breaking the surface without using up your other pads. Either use wet or dry pads. If using wet pads, start at 40 grit and end with 100 grit. If using dry pads, start with 100 going to 200 grit, 400 grit, 800 grit, and finishing with 1500 grit. Use a micro-topping to fill voids near the end of the polishing process.
SEALING • Concrete should be cured prior to application of sealer. Two coats of penetrating sealer and two coats of food-grade concrete beeswax is recommended.
MAINTENANCE • Apply beeswax regularly for maintenance. Encourage the owner to use hot pads and cutting boards to avoid damaging the wax or sealer.