What to Expect from Concrete Countertops |
Posted: July 15, 2019 |
Concrete is definitely one of the most popular materials for countertops today. After all, it is just as solid and hard as granite, for example, while, at the same time, it is able to fit in better into a variety of different kitchen designs rather than just being confined to one type of design. In addition, you are even able to do things such as etch, stamp, and even acid-stain it in order to make a countertop that goes perfectly with the design of your space. Indeed, concrete countertops are not only those cold and gray slabs of concrete that you have grown accustomed to; instead, you are able to design them into whatever style that you are going for. What’s more, is that in addition to looking so good, you can count on your concrete countertop to being quite functional in your space.
Now, when it comes to installing it, you can choose between one of two ways. For one, you could choose to get it fabricated by a contractor in their own shop. Based on the measurements in your home, they build the form, pour the concrete, add any colors and additives to it, and then they top it off with a sealer. It is also typically reinforced with either a fiber or a metal mesh prior to pouring the concrete mix in order to ensure that it won’t crack over time. As soon as it is dry, they transport it back to your home for you where they may have to create or install a few support frames for components like sinks to make sure that the weight is distributed evenly. They also make sure that it stays in plays by gluing it in place with a special construction adhesive. The problem with this process, though, is that it does tend to be more expensive to get someone to do the work for you and it can be risky for the slab of concrete as there is a chance that it could crack or even break during transportation. Indeed, since concrete countertops cost much less if you make them on your own, it is often recommended that you give a DIY concrete countertop project a try. The process is truly not nearly as difficult as you may think at first and there are so many resources available online today that can help you make sure that your countertop ends up looking the best it can. For example, on our website Concrete Countertop Solutions, you will be able to find everything that you would possibly need in order to make your own concrete countertop including videos, manuals, tools, as well as all sorts of different materials. In addition to the cost, DIY concrete countertops are also quite rewarding because you will have had a hand in the design of your space, which is also a great way to ensure that your countertop ends up looking just as you had imagined in the first place. However, there is a whole lot more to concrete countertops. Keep on reading to find out about some of their benefits and their potential risks.
Pros and Cons of Concrete CountertopsAs we mentioned earlier, one of the greatest benefits of concrete countertops is the fact that they can be shaped and molded so that they will fit perfectly into the dimensions of your space. In addition, the colors and patterns that you can choose from are unlimited, which can’t be said about the majority of countertop materials available today. In addition, they are cheaper than other materials and are definitely simpler to install. What’s more, is that they don’t scratch and they are completely resistant to heat. You are also able to embed things like stones, shells, and glass into your slab of concrete. You won’t even struggle with either cleaning it up or maintaining it, but it is recommended that you seal it regularly if you want the maintenance process to continue to be simple. Therefore, granted that you have properly sealed it, you simply have to seal it with a water-based sealer once a year. This way, you can rest easy knowing that the surface will be able to handle any stains as well as decrease the chances that it ends up cracking. In addition, it may be a bit on the heavier side, therefore, it is recommended that you properly reinforce your cabinet frames prior to adding the concrete onto it. In addition, regardless of what repercussions that you take, there will always be a chance that your concrete may crack. However, some people actually like the cracks as it adds character to the design of the countertop. That being said, if you aren’t a fan, it’s not a problem since you are able to cover them up with ease. As you can see, the benefits definitely outweigh the costs, granted you take proper care. However, this shouldn’t come as a shock considering how everything in life is better if it is taken care of. In addition to the fact that concrete countertops are very cost-effective, it is also possible to make them on your own with ease. Obviously, this may require a bit more work, but you hardly need any tools or skills in order to make them, which is a huge bonus. In addition, they have a lot of character, therefore, you can make them work into virtually any design that you are going for. If you are a perfectionist, then this material may not be the best for you, but otherwise, if you are someone who can appreciate the beauty of imperfections and how time adds some wear to the designs, you will definitely enjoy having concrete as your countertop material. After all, it allows you to save a whole lot of money without ever having to compromise on the quality or the functionality that other materials offer. Indeed, some may even go so far as to say that concrete offers more than any other material available on the market today!
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