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. How much do concrete countertops cost?
A. Countertops start at around fifty dollars per square foot for basic slabs and standard colors. Because each piece is made to custom specifications and each job is unique, there is no standard pricing. Quoted prices will reflect the effort and resources necessary to execute each individual design.
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.
Q. How heavy are they?
A. A 1 1/2″ thick concrete countertop weighs about 18 pounds per square foot. A 2″ thick top weighs about 24 pounds per square foot. For comparison purposes, 3 cm granite weighs about 16 – 17 pounds per square foot.
Q. What kind of sinks can be used with concrete countertops?
A. Both under-mount and drop-in sinks can be used. In addition, sinks can be made an integral part of the countertop.
Q. How long do they take to make?
A. The production process takes about 2 weeks from the time templates are made to the time the counters are ready for installation. This timeframe makes the assumption that any special pigments, aggregates or embedded details are selected and on hand at the time of templating. All sinks and faucets must also be available prior to starting production.
Q. Who would choose a concrete countertop?
A. To determine if concrete is right for you, think about whether you:
· Want something that is personalized and unique to you
· Want something that looks natural and has character
· Think granite is too common
· Appreciate high-quality, hand crafted items
· Think synthetic solid surface materials look and feel like plastic
· Need a color or visual texture that’s not available with other countertop materials.