Frequently Asked Questions about custom concrete solutions:
Q. What are my color choices with Concrete Countertops?
A. Like anything cement based, your options are endless. Cement comes in either a white or grey base and can have color added into the mix as well as to the surface of the hardened concrete. From white to black and every configuration in between.
Q. How durable are concrete countertops?
A. Once cured, concrete is extremely durable, but like any other material the edges and corners are the most susceptible to damage or chipping standard precautions should be taken when working with pots, pans or other items.
Q. Can I cut food on the countertop surface?
A. It is usually recommended that a cutting board or protective surface be used, if not for the countertop at least to protect your cutting blade edge.
Some countertops are sealed and a cut could damage the finish as well.
Q. What affects the price of a concrete countertop?
A. Size, Scope and Complexity of the countertop are the major factors that determine the price. Specialty edges, custom insets, embedded items, surface finish and other decorative elements that will require a more talented and skilled installation. Shipment, delivery and installation also play a role in the price.
Q. What are the advantages of Concrete over other materials like laminate, granite, marble or Corian?
A. Concrete offers a unique hand crafted, custom finish that is not possible with other materials. The colors, textures, and finish are unique and each piece is an original. Concrete is also very durable, heat resistant, timeless, and environmentally friendly.
Q. Are concrete countertop materials the same for interior and exterior use?
A. Basically they can be. The only thing to consider with exterior countertops is that they are subject to the elements. Rain, hail, snow, freezing and sunlight. These factors should be put into consideration when planning and building an exterior grade concrete countertop. Make sure the finish will hold up and the concrete uses colorfast agents to maintain its look.
Q. Do concrete countertops crack?
A. If designed and installed correctly no. Concrete inherently may show surface lesions, but these are not considered cracks. These are expected and desired in concrete as veining is in marble.
Concrete Bathroom Vanities:
Concrete countertops and bath vanities whether polished, cast in place, pre-cast or stamped these rather new inventions are becoming one of the most popular fields of the decorative concrete industry.
Concrete vanities and countertops offer the customer a totally brand new innovative look to chose from.
By using concrete as a component, decorative concrete countertops are functional, versatile, durable and ultimately beautiful. From a malleable material like wet concrete we can contour, form, and create a design which will eventually become rock solid.
Here are some tips for maintaining concrete countertops:
Now that you have a beautiful concrete countertop it is important that you protect your investment. Concrete countertops can't be all grouped together as having the same maintenance as many concrete countertops are created differently. Every concrete countertop fabricator has his/her own ways of creating and finishing the counter.
Here are some basic ways to protect and maintain your concrete countertop.
Daily maintenance: Wipe up spills as soon as possible, use a light dish soap or detergent to clean and avoid harsh chemicals and bleach.
Monthly Maintenance: Waxes can maintain your countertop and build up a protective film over time. Similar to a car wax a wax for your countertop will create a slick smooth easy to clean surface. If your countertop begins to show signs of wear and dulling, reapply a coat of wax.
Yearly Maintenance: Some countertops are coated or sealed with a penetrating sealer, you may decide to reapply this sealer every year or two to maintain the stain resistance of the concrete.
One of the best ways to determine the ideal maintenence solution for your concrete countertop would be to ask the fabricator or manufacturer, have them provide you with the proper maintenance instructions after they install the counter this will ensure a long lasting countertop for years to come.
