Are you wanting to install concrete countertops and considering doing the job yourself? Constructing concrete countertops isn’t a simple DIY task. There is a lot of planning, knowledge, and skill required. There are a lot of things that can go wrong if any step of the process isn’t completed properly. The process is challenging and it is recommended that if you do not have experience with constructing concrete countertops that you hire a contractor. The biggest challenges that contractors deal with when constructing concrete countertops are building, reinforcement, the concrete mix, and design.
There a a lot of tools and supplies required when constructing a concrete countertop, including concrete mix for countertops, countertop molds, a casting table, a concrete mixer, materials for reinforcing, knockouts for sinks and faucets, coloring pigments and more. Concrete countertops aren’t as easy as mixing a bag of ready mix and putting it in a mold. There is a specific ratio or concrete mix to water and specific mixes to use. The reinforcement is also very important to understand, together the reinforcement and concrete will prevent cracking, so it’s crucial that the process is done correctly. You also need to have knowledge of concrete countertop sealers. Experienced and skilled contractors typically have a particular way to mix sealer combinations that they know will have the best results.
Another consideration is the construction location. Concrete countertops can be constructed on-site or in a shop. If they are constructed off-site they will need to be transported carefully to the final destination. Consider the weight of concrete if transporting them as well, it typically takes a team of people to carry the heavy countertops. The benefits of building the countertops in a shop is that you usually have more space to work with and with all of the tools and materials needed this is a definite plus. You don’t have to worry about damaging your home (cupboards, floors, etc.) and you don’t have to worry about dust and debris.
Concrete countertops can also be constructed on-site to avoid having to transport them, but this can be a messy inconvenience. Even with the inconvenience of building the countertops on-site, it is a better option when constructing seamless and long countertops or when the countertops are heavy or will not fit through doorways. If you are building an outdoor concrete countertop, then constructing it on-site would typically be preferred. Once the concrete countertops have been placed you will still need to finish them.
So basically, unless you are highly skilled in the area of concrete and using it to build countertops, it is probably a good idea to contact an experienced and skilled contractor. The job will get done right and you’ll be happy you made things easier on yourself.
There are so many creative and custom options for finishing concrete, but first and foremost important is the concrete itself. At Custom Concrete Creations we have state of the art equipment and a properly trained team with years of experience. Custom Concrete Creations is a premier contractor serving the Omaha area as well at the Midwest. Give us a call or send us an email for your custom concrete finishing needs today!