It can definitely be difficult to make the decision on a material for your kitchen countertop, but if you are looking for durability more than anything, a concrete countertop is going to be one of the best options you have available to you.
It is well known by homeowners around the world that concrete has become a material of choice for kitchen countertops. Most concrete countertops are precast in models built to the customer's specifications so that they can be formed, cured and finished under controlled conditions. This is actually one of the greatest benefits of a concrete countertop, as this means that the countertop will turn out precisely as the homeowner wants it to.
Concrete countertop makers often develop their own signature looks by using proprietary mix ingredients and innovative casting techniques and surface treatments.
These countertops are not only durable and easy on the eyes, but as well they are very affordable and so they are great for the homeowner on a budget.
The Possibilities
There are some terrific possibilities that you have available to you by going with a concrete countertop. For one, you can incorporate many curves and angles, something that you would not be able to do with most other countertop materials.
There is also the option of adding sparkle with aggregates or glass chips, so if you want something really unique and special in your countertop, this is a great option. You may even want to get extra modern and incorporate some personal mementos such as bits of broken dishware and bottle fragments, which will be set into the concrete and which you can look at forever.
You can really get back to nature and have a more wholesome feel to your home if you choose to go with a concrete countertop and since all concrete countertops are hand-cast, they therefore exhibit subtle variations in color and texture, so really, each countertop is unique and personalized in some way.
There are some terrific options that you have available if you are interested in remodeling your kitchen countertops, so make sure that you take your time and put some serious consideration into this process. The last thing you want to do is rush into this and end up with a countertop that you do not end up liking, that you end up regretting, and especially if you are planning to spend a lot of money on your countertops.
Concrete countertops have been around for longer than you think. One of the original "Father's of Concrete Countertops", Fu-Tung Chen, was pouring them as early as the mid 1970's, and started his own business soon thereafter. It was the start of an entire industry that has, in recent years, caught on like wildfire. There is no other product on the market today that offers all the benefits and appeal of concrete countertops, and as the process is more and more refined, the products and results have become almost unbelievable.
But don't just think kitchen counters when we talk about concrete. It can be used for any number of other applications, from sinks to tubs to fireplace surrounds and any surface or detail in between.
Entire bathroom countertops with included sinks can be cast out of one monolithic form, and bring a sense of mass and substance to your room like nothing else you can imagine. The benefit, of course, is that the form is built to any size, and is filled with concrete when in its liquid state. That allows for infinite design possibilities.
As another added benefit, concrete is durable. It will outlast everything else in your house, and still be around on the second, third, and fourth kitchen remodel. Concrete is one of the most durable building materials in existence today. It can bear incredible amounts of compression and temperature extremes without fail, so you can imagine how easily it can withstand heavy use in a kitchen or bathroom.
Modern chemistry has created a dizzying array of colors and additives that we use to strengthen and tint the concrete. From shades of gray to brilliant blues and greens, concrete can be made to fit any shade of color you can imagine. When you add in the idea of inclusions, the design possibilities and detail potential really come to life. Anything that you can imagine can be added to the countertop before it dries, making a permanent display or reminded. Glass and pebbles can be added for an amazing effect. The counter is ground down when dry to a silk-smooth surface, and the inclusions show through for an incredible display.
Concrete countertops are becoming more mainstream, and designers are flocking to decorative concrete companies to get their names on the list. Make sure you coordinate your countertop installer with your designer and finish carpenter to ensure that everything will fit together seamlessly.
Both Charlie Reese & Allen Wright are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Charlie Reese has sinced written about articles on various topics from Psychic Readings, Wedding Gowns and Wedding Bells. Charlie Reese is a countertop improvement explorer and employer. He as well likes getting and. Charlie Reese's top article generates over 673000 views. to your Favourites.
Allen Wright has sinced written about articles on various topics from Modelling, Insurance and Property Sale. Allen is a design enthusiast who has followed the concrete countertop industry for years. Follow these links for more information on and. Allen Wright's top article generates over 550000 views. to your Favourites.