Common questions regarding Concrete Countertops

Why chose concrete?
Chose concrete for its uniqueness and artistic qualities. We can customize a countertop to fit you, your personality, and your environment. Chose it for the versatility in customization. Add decorative aggregates like glass chips, semi precious stones, metals, fossils, the list goes on. We can sculpt a built in drain board or ledge to hold your cutting board. Bring us your ideas and let us help design the right top for your space.

Is this really concrete?
Forget what you think you know about concrete. Driveways and sidewalks this is not. Although the basic ingredients in our tops are the same, we use special products such as plasticizers, curing agents, and carbon reinforcements. The result is a smooth surface that can be finished in a number of ways.

Can concrete countertops crack or scratch?
Concrete may incur some hairline cracks during its lifetime that are not structural and should be accepted as part of the art form. These cracks do not affect the strength or durability of the top. It is the nature of the product to have some cracks. We do everything possible to prevent any major cracking, but of course if this should occur, we will promptly assess the situation. Concrete surfaces share many of the same characteristics of other stone surfaces like marble and limestone and require similar care. Although very durable, they do require some maintenance and are not indestructible. The surface can chip or crack if struck by a heavy object. The use of cutting boards and hot pads are recommended to protect the surface from extreme temperature changes and from scratching. We use a special sealer to provide protection to the tops, but once again they are not indestructible. Prompt cleanup of spills, especially of an acidic nature, will ensure years of enjoyment. Concrete naturally ages with time giving your top a fine patina which adds to the artistic dimension of your top.

What do concrete countertops cost?
Manufacturing concrete countertops is very labor intensive. Each piece / project is unique and must be handled as such. We quote each project individually. In general, the costs of concrete countertops are in the same range as mid to high end granite.

How long does it take to get concrete countertops?
Typically we give a window of 4 to 6 weeks from template to installation. About half of this time is for curing alone. Again, these tops are very labor intensive and each piece must be formed and poured individually, then, once removed from the mold must be processed and sealed by hand.

What kind of care do concrete countertops require?
We recommend NOT using any kind of abrasive cleaning agents on your top. Stay away from abrasive scrubbing pads and ammonia and citrus based cleaning agents as they will harm the protective sealer. Warm soapy water, vinegar and water, and Simple Green (non citrus based) work best with a clear rinse afterwards.