Concrete can be used in copious applications utilizing a variety of techniques. It is durable enough to last for many years ahead, strong enough to be used in structural applications, and malleable (before cured) to be molded to nearly every form or shape. It can be used in flooring, wall, and ceiling applications, or it usually is employed to construct statues and furniture. It usually is designed to look industrial and cold in addition to traditional and warm. With so many applications, it really is nearly safe to say that concrete can be used to make almost anything, and countertops are no exception.

Concrete countertops made their debut into restaurants, retail establishments, and homes over about ten years ago; however, they have grown to be more accepted within the last couple of years. Once a countertop material for only the do-it-yourselfers and the exceptionally rich, concrete countertops are actually beginning to make their way into mid-priced homes and common commercial applications.

Utilizing concrete countertops is becoming an increasingly popular method for designers and homeowners to accomplish a look unparalleled by any other material. Concrete countertops can add an ideal design element to almost any design style, including traditional, earthy, modern, industrial, contemporary, and more. Concrete countertops are only limited by the imagination and the ability to make the forms as such.

Key Components that Effect the appearance of Concrete Countertops

Aggregates.

All concrete requires coarse and fine aggregates for proper consistency and strength. In fact, these aggregates certainly are a main composition of concrete. In the application of countertops, the aggregates are of great importance. Obviously, the aggregates must allow the concrete to set up since it should. However, aggregates can have roles in the aesthetics of the concrete countertop, as well. For example, the kind of fine aggregates chosen (i.e. sand) can drastically change the colour of the finished product. Also, if the countertop is polished, the procedure can grind in to the concrete, exposing aggregates. In cases like this, aggregate sizes and colors are simply as important as any concrete coloring to the final look of the most notable. Also, if exposing the aggregate, contemplate using aggregates other than gravel, including broken glass, marble or granite chips, nuts and bolts, etc.

Portland Cement.

Portland cement may be the binder that keeps concrete held together. Because traditional Portland cement is grey in color, it could impact the overall look of the concrete countertop. If you're after a top which can be easily stained dark colors, or in case you are attempting to leave the concrete countertops the natural, grey color, then regular Portland is the right choice for the project. However, if your concrete countertop will be white or light colors, or you need it to be easily dyed or stained, you could be better suited to choose a white Portland cement. It has the same binding properties as traditional Portland, only it is white in color when cured. White Portland is the only way to get a truly white concrete countertop.

Colors.

There are a variety of techniques used to accomplish a certain color in a concrete countertop. The most basic methods is adding a pigment in to the concrete mix prior to the countertop is poured. These colors are often called integral colors or integrated colors. Integral colors add color throughout the countertop, making the center of the countertop the same color as the surface. This is especially important if any grinding or polishing is to occur after the pour. Post-pour colors will grind off, exposing the initial color of the concrete. Some post-pour concrete coloring techniques include stained concrete countertops, tinted concrete countertops, and dyed concrete countertops. Each coloring method will result in a uniquely different result. Generally, the same rules make an application for concrete countertop pre- and post-pour coloring techniques as they do for regular concrete slabs. Be sure to check rules and strategies for each of these techniques before attempting. For example, you will likely desire to wait before concrete countertop is totally cured before applying any stain, which might use up to 60 days for interior applications.

Sealers.

For each and every concrete countertop, you should use some type of sealer. Concrete is naturally porous, so you will require a sealer to help keep the pores from sucking in bacteria, stains, etc. There are many different sealers. Because this sealer will protect your concrete countertop investment, don't cheap out on this step. Especially for kitchen applications, choose an FDA approved sealer. Additionally, there are some that are less hassle than others, so focus on details like application procedures and length between reapplying. Sealers will come in many different sheens and even tints. An increased gloss sealer tends to bring out the richness of the colors, while a flat or matte sealer will tone the concrete countertop down a little. Tinted sealer must be used carefully because if the color is conflicting or if the particle count of the tint is too much, it can completely ruin the hard work you put into the concrete countertop.

Decorative Props.

Concrete countertop fabricators have been trying many unique methods to set their countertops apart. One semi-common technique is inlaying decorative materials into the concrete countertop when the concrete has yet to cure. Inlaid materials can include sea shells, tiles, natural stones, glass, etc. A lot more delicate objects like preserved leaves could be inlaid. Although a sealer can add some protection, always think about the long-term durability of the materials you decide to inlay in the countertop. Countertop artists have also been playing with objects to impress in to the concrete. If used on a functional countertop, impressions ought to be shallow to avoid creating a location that collects dirt and grime. Impression materials are abundant and include rubber stamps, hand or foot prints, leaves and sticks, cookie cutters or cake molds, etc.

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For the surface, there are many different finishes that you may choose, including flat, polished, stamped or impressed, troweled, textured, and much more. This finish can have a enormous effect on the ultimate look of the concrete countertop.

Edge Shape.

When you can imagine an edge finish, it is available with concrete countertops. The only limitation may be the maker's capability to create the mold or form. Of course, square corners are an easy and common edge shape for concrete countertops. Also, you should use a router, like those applied to granite or marble countertops, to create edge styles including bull nose, rounded corners, triple egg, ogee, and more. There are also a variety of Styrofoam and rubber edge molds that may mimic wood trim, jagged rock edge, and numerous more. Or, should you be feeling adventurous, you can create your own molds. Just remember: you merely get one try. In the event that you mess up, the only fix is a new concrete countertop.

Sinks.

If you are really going for a streamline look with your countertop, consider actually molding your sink in to the concrete countertop. This will mean you have one fluid piece that accounts for the counters and the sink with no seams. There are a lot more sink shapes available with concrete than there are with other materials. Again, if you can dream it and build the mold, you possibly can make it with concrete.