Concrete Countertops

Whether you live in a hip urban loft or a traditional new construction, concrete, the ancient material first used by the Romans, is being used in new ways. From concrete countertops to sinks, bathtubs, fireplace surrounds, furniture, and floors, concrete is taking on new colors, surprising textures and experimental forms as this tactile material can be polished to a slick shiny surface or kept as rough as sandpaper.

Advantages To Using Concrete For Your Countertops

The color choices are endless, which allows homeowners a range of choices when coordinating around other materials for the kitchen or bath. In terms of performance and cost, concrete is comparable to solid-surface synthetics and stone, but the similarity stops there. Because concrete can be cast in molds, homeowners are not limited to standard dimensions. And, you can also add texturing, decorative designs and objects like glass or coins.

Disadvantages

Concrete contains natural materials, which means it requires careful maintenance. Acidic liquids like citrus juices, wine and vinegar on unsealed concrete can etch into the surface while greasy materials can soak in causing permanent stains. Proper measures need to be taken to make sure the concrete is kept properly sealed and maintenance must be kept up or over time, your concrete countertop will show wear and stains.

Do it Yourself Countertops

For people who enjoy doing their own work, there are kits and courses available to help you with the process. The web offers a multitude of resources that will help you decide how best to go about designing and building your concrete countertop including framing, molds, mixes, finishes and sealants. In addition, you will want to have the following:

 Melamine (for mold-making)
 Rebar/wire mesh reinforcement (for mold-making)
 Large capacity cement mixer (consult rental shop for appropriate size) or wheelbarrow
 Professional concrete vibrator
 Variable speed grinder/polisher

Resurfacing Your Countertops With Concrete

There’s a product on the market called Skimstone Hybridized Portland Cement that will allow you to place a decorative finish over your present countertop. A 3-coat application system, Skimstone allows the do it yourselfer to change the look of your countertops easily and economically. You can choose from a variety of colors and texture or polish, but like every product, proper maintenance and upkeep is necessary to keep your countertops looking good.

If you’re hesitant to jump in or if you tried it on a smaller project and don’t like the results, a quick web search will pull up a variety of companies offering 3-hour classes to help you across those initial bumps. If you are still uncertain about your own skills, you may be able to find a DIY pro anxious to show off some of his or her skills.

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