Isn’t concrete great? It’s so versatile that it can even be made into countertops. Concrete countertops have become a popular option for homeowners in recent years. Here’s some good information about concrete countertops.
Customize
Concrete countertops can be personalized in a variety of ways. They can be stained, painted, or dyed in a variety of colors. Items can be imbedded into the concrete to give it a unique look, such as metallic flakes, pieces of glass, coins, and seashells. Countertops can be made to look like marble, stone, or even wood. The edges can be finished in a variety of ways and the countertops themselves can be made in different shapes including freeform shapes. You can even add built-ins, like drain boards and trivets.
Cost
Typically, concrete countertops aren’t anymore expensive than marble or granite countertops. The standard cost runs at about $65-$135 a square foot, with installation being about $40-$50 per hour. So, on the low end concrete countertops are more affordable than marble and granite, but it also depends on the amount of detail and labor that goes into them. Concrete countertops can also be made with recycled materials to keep costs down and to be economical. In terms of longevity, concrete counters are definitely worth the costs. With their durability and timeless esthetics, it’s unlikely that they will need to be replaced.
Cracking
As you know by now if you read our blogs, concrete does tend to crack due to the natural shrinking of the concrete over time. So, it’s not any different with concrete counters. It’s possible that there may be hairline cracks in the concrete over time. This doesn’t always happen and can possibly be prevented with the use of different types of reinforcements. Rebar, wire mesh, and fiber reinforcement can all help to strengthen the concrete and prevent cracks. If the hairline cracks do happen, it often adds to the character of the concrete countertop and doesn’t take away from the esthetics.
Stains and Scratches
Concrete is naturally porous, so to prevent water and stains from being absorbed, it is highly recommended to use a food grade sealant or wax on the countertops. If the surface is cut on directly minor scratches will appear. However, if scratches do occur, they are typically in the sealant and not the concrete itself, making them easy to fix.
Cleaning
With the use of a sealant, concrete countertops are as simple to clean as the surface of a laminated countertop. We suggest using a pH-neutral cleaning product with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning products or rough scrubbing pads to prevent wear of the sealant.
With proper maintenance, which requires very little, your concrete countertops can last for decades or more! With regular use concrete countertops typically last the lifespan of the home. They are economical and very cost effective in the long run. You can personalize them to your desired appearance and they can be a fun discussion piece! Isn’t concrete just wonderful?!
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!