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Products :
Countertops
:
Concrete
Concrete
What It Is
Made entirely of natural materials, this hardened mixture of water,
cement, sand, stone and pigment isn’t just for your basement floor
anymore. It can make quite a statement up in the kitchen, and homeowners
are taking note, as evidenced by its quick rise in popularity. The
counters can be pre-cast to fit a mold or cast on site.
Concrete must be sealed properly to resist stains and water damage.
However, like the aged charm of a well used butcher block, many fans of
concrete argue that there's beauty in the way the an unsealed surface
ages.
Pros
- Can be worked into different shapes, such as integral sinks and
decorative edge treatments.
- Custom details like integral drain boards can be incorporated.
- Resists scratches and heat.
- Comes in a variety of colors (some manufacturers even allow you to
create a custom color) and textures.
- Custom cast to your exact specifications.
- Much stronger than any other natural surface.
Cons
- Must be sealed properly to resist stain.
- Though sealing protects the concrete, waxing is required to protect
the sealer. Most manufacturers recommend applying wax to your product
every one to three months, which will help to maintain its sheen and
repel liquids.
- Cutting on it will leave marks.
- Quick temperature changes can cause curling or warping to newly
installed slabs.
Quick Tip
For an added dose of personality, embed vintage tiles, shells or other
object in the countertop. Finding concrete to be out of your price range?
Investigate concrete tiles; Sonoma Cast Stone offers 25 ½" x 24" sections
in four designer colors that work well for projects with limited time and
budget.
To Clean
Though your specific manufacturer's instructions reign supreme, concrete
countertop manufacturer Sonoma Cast Stone recommends cleaning with a
neutral pH soap, and be careful to avoid abrasive cleaners. Promptly rinse
all spills from surface. Wax every one to three months and reseal every
one to two years, based on your manufacturer's instructions.
Cost
About $55 to $100 per square foot.
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