How to Build Outdoor Counters

Select a level location where you wish to build the counter. Surfaces such as a concrete pad or patios made of pavers make ideal locations, since they often are level or close to level. Measure the space to ensure the counter you plan will fit or remove obstacles such as plant growth to make room for the counter.

Cut 2-by-4 boards to the height you want your counter to stand, trimming two boards for each corner of the counter’s configuration. Pair up the cut boards and drive deck screws through the pairs to bind them together.

Measure and cut 2-by-4 boards that span the distance between the counter’s corners. Cut two boards per measurement, one for the top of the counter’s assembly and one for the bottom. Position the cut boards between the pairs of boards that form the corners, joining the boards with deck screws to create the counter’s frame.

Measure the sides and top of the counter assembly and cut pieces of plywood to cover the sides and the top. Spread construction adhesive onto the edges of the plywood before pressing them against the wood frame and drive deck screws through the plywood and into the frame. If you wish to install doors for access to the counter’s base, leave those sections free of plywood.

Place a level on the top of the counter assembly to check for level from side-to-side and front-to-back. Nail wood shims onto the bottom of any low-lying sides of the cabinet assembly until it measures level.

Mix mortar with water, following the ratio on the mortar’s bag, using a bucket and a mixing paddle attachment on your drill. Trowel mortar onto the top of the counter and rake the mortar with the notched end of the trowel.

Set the tiles on the mortar, using spacers to separate the tiles. Cut tiles as needed using a tile saw. Remove the spacers and spread grout between the tiles. Once the grout starts to dry, wipe away the grout residue from the tiles’ surface using a moist sponge.