Countertops: Concrete
by Susan Winner
Kitchen & Bath Editor

COUNTERTOPS: Concrete

Introduction | Granite | Marble | Limestone | Engineered Stone | Lavastone | Concrete | Tile | Butcher Block | Soapstone | Slate | Solid Surface | Copper & Zinc | Stainless Steel
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Concrete Countertop
from Get Real
 



Concrete contains natural materials: stone, silica-based cement, water, and pigment. Cast in molds and structurally reinforced, it is either pre-cast in a shop or done on-site.



  • Concrete is a handmade, custom-crafted material that works well with other natural elements such as slate and wood.
  • Extremely porous, concrete must be properly resealed periodically to resist stains.
  • Avoid cutting directly on the surface, as this will compromise the sealant.
  • Rather unpredictable in nature, concrete may crack and will change color, developing a warm patina over time.
  • Hairline cracks may develop from the natural shrinkage of the concrete. These cracks tend to be nonstructural and simply add interest to the inherent beauty of the material.
  • As with marble or granite, seams can become part of the design element.
  • Standard 1.5" thick tops start at approximately $100 per square foot.
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