Concrete Countertops Are An Interesting Choice

If you are looking for an interesting way to make your kitchen completely unique you may want to consider using concrete countertops. That is correct ... concrete. Concrete countertops are becoming more popular and readily available since first really entering the countertop market place back around early 2001.

One of the biggest misconceptions about using concrete for your countertops is that you are limited to that dull gray color. The truth is there are actually several different colors and styles to choose from.

Most of the available colors are in the brown family and run the gamut from tan to a dark chocolate. However, you can also go black, and many fabricators offer a blue-green color. If you're looking for a design on the top, you can choose from two common designs like marbling or terrazzo.

If you are dealing with a very experienced fabricator they can make your countertops look like a slab of marble. Seeing this done is absolutely fascinating. Many concrete countertop manufacturers are honing the technique of make the countertop resemble quartz and granite.

If you prefer a more mosaic look, you can have the fabricator add in shards of marble chips, quartz or perhaps colored glass. This gives you a very unique and one of a kind look for your tops. So the color choice for the concrete may be a little limited but you can dress it up with any color.

One of the greatest advantages to a concrete countertop is the fact that you can pour any shape or design. You are only limited by your imagination ... you can have circles, triangles, or an abstract design, it is your choice.

There are a few downfalls with concrete countertops however. They need to be sealed, otherwise you will end up with permanent stains. The problem with needing to be sealed is that direct, high heat will damage the sealer. So you will not be able to set a pan directly on the countertop. Cutting directly on the countertop will also damage the sealer so make sure you use a cutting board.

One other problem that some homeowners have experienced is the sealer that the manufacturers were using was aging and giving off a yellow tint. They have fixed this problem by upgrading the sealer, but make sure that you discuss this with your fabricator.

What many people may not know is when the concrete countertops are finished, the will be nice and smooth. You will be able to run your hands over them and it will feel like marble. In fact many of your guests will not even be able to tell the difference.

Care and maintenance for your concrete countertops is no different than any other type of top ... just use a mild soap and a soft sponge.

When you are selecting a concrete countertop, make sure you are dealing with an experienced manufacturer. Do not become a cabinet shop's guinea pig! If a mistake is made on the tops, it is not an easy fix but is very time consuming and costly ... so make sure that you hire someone that has references and experience.