Back in the day, no one would have even considering using concrete as a countertop material as it was strictly used for construction purposes. Today, however, people have really enjoyed incorporating it into their countertop surfaces as it has a very modern style to it while it is also completely versatile, so you can essentially turn it into a surface that will work with virtually any style. Indeed, it has increased a lot in popularity for the fact that it is functional while at the same time, it is very durable and stunning. However, you will most often find it in both kitchen and baths as it works as a strong countertop surface in those spaces. Now, when it comes to installing it, you can either choose to actually make the slab or simply overlay it over some other surface. Let’s break down the process for each so that you can figure out which one would work best for you.
What You Need to Know About Concrete Countertops
One of the best parts about a concrete countertop is that you can customize it in any way you would like, whether it be based on the length, width, or even the shape of the slab. In addition, you are able to add a variety of customizations to it such as decorative edging or add a feature such as an integral sink, for example. While it is considered to be fairly heavy since you do want it to be of a decent thickness, at the same time, as long as you have a sturdy construction, you should be totally good to go.
Now, when it comes to making a concrete countertop, you are able to choose to either have it cast in place or precast instead. The thing about getting it precast, though, is that you get it made outside of your space. Therefore, not only will you have to pay for someone to do it for you, but you will also have to deal with all of the transportation costs associated with moving it from one location to another. However, you will be able to use it immediately upon installation. At the same time, though, there is a high risk of it getting damaged along the way. If you choose to have it cast in place, on the other hand, then you can either get a contractor to do it for you, or you can try to give it a shot yourself. Thankfully, doing a DIY concrete countertop project is actually not that difficult as long as you have done the proper research and collected all of the necessary materials beforehand. The thing is, though, if you choose to make it right at home, then while you will have to wait a week or two for it to completely cure, at the same time, you will be able to create exactly the countertop that you dreamed of. In addition, the end result is so rewarding and completely worth the wait. Therefore, if you would like to learn more about DIY concrete countertops, we suggest that you check out our website Concrete Countertop Solutions as there you will find everything that you would need to get started. Indeed, we have a copious amount of guides and tutorials along with all of the materials and tools that you would need all in one location. We definitely recommend that you give this a look because, at the end of the day, concrete countertops cost a whole lot less when you decide to make it on your own.
Keep in mind, however, that in addition to making a concrete countertop from scratch, you also have the option of making an overlay. In this case, you would adhere concrete to a countertop that you already have which will act as a base. You can lay it over virtually any material, but some of the most common ones include ceramic tile, granite, marble, laminate, as well as wood. This is also a project that you could do on your own instead of hiring a contractor, which would also lower costs. You can expect the process to take a couple of days, including both the coloring and the sealing, while curing would only take about a day since there is so much less concrete that needs to be dried. In addition, since you are going to be using a lot less material, not only is this option very green, but also the countertop ends up being much lighter, therefore, the cabinets underneath won’t be bearing as much of a burden.
The thing is, though, concrete is a very durable material, so it is great for both the indoors and the outdoors as well. As we mentioned earlier, it is also a very versatile material, therefore, you can finish it in a wide variety of colors, finishes, as well as textures. A lot of people have enjoyed incorporating aggregate into as well including glitter, pebbles, and even sea glass, to name a few. While there is a chance that they will produce small cracks, don’t let this scare you away because it does not impact the structure of it in any way shape or form. In addition, there is a very little chance of it actually developing one nowadays due to the advanced technology that we have today. That being said, should it happen, it can be covered with ease.
With regards to maintenance, all you really need to be concerned about is ensuring that you seal it properly as this is the best way to protect it against any kind of moisture, including various acids and cleaners. It is also recommended that both cutting boards and trivets are used to remove the risk of damaging it. That being said, it’s not necessary, but if you would like to keep it for a much longer time, it is definitely recommended.
As you can see, concrete boasts a number of advantages, therefore, if this is something that you are interested, please don’t get scared of it because it is a foreign material to you because as you’ve learned, it makes a great countertop material regardless of the location!