October 20, 2009

Concrete Counter tops




Concrete countertops provide one more option to make the kitchen looker classier and clean. As good as stone, tiles or even wood, they provide all the benefits of durability, versatility and attractive style and design all in one place. They are available in different sizes, designs and colors and can also be custom-made or stained as per the homeowner's choice.

How are concrete countertops made?

Concrete countertops can either be pre-cast in a shop or can be made to order at the place of installation. When using the method of pre-cast, special casting tables are used by contractors to get the required shape, size and color. When the contractor makes a countertop at site, it is more to meet with the design and functional requirements of the client's kitchen. Most countertops are made from cement, lightweight aggregates and additives such as fiber reinforcement, acrylic, etc. They are cured and ground to give a look of beauty and durability. Coatings of sealers are always used on them to improve the quality and reduce maintenance efforts.

Concrete countertop costs

The costs involved in getting a concrete countertop would include the making charges of the contractor, the cost of the materials used and if it has been pre-cast, additional shipping charges must also be taken into account. Besides, the installation charges also form a part of the costs. Since most concrete countertops are custom made, they tend to be priced higher than those made from other materials. In simple words, they are not low budget.

Features

Although concrete countertops have numerous advantages, they also have certain limitations. It is important to note that they may not be used for chopping or cutting vegetables as this may damage the sealer. Also, avoid placing hot pans directly on the countertop as this may again damage the sealer by discoloring it or wearing away its water-resistant capacity. Most countertops are pre-cast. Hence they are available in standard kitchen counter top sizes. If they are custom-made, the homeowner can decide on the sizes and the contractor can make them accordingly. Seams may be used to give a marble or shiny look to the extended counter top.

You might like to read these as well:

  1. Concrete Sealers - Concrete sealers are used to seal gaps and leaks on concrete pavements, driveways, patios or even concrete counter tops in...
  2. Countertop Installation - The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house. The countertop is one of the most important...
  3. Selecting countertops - Kitchen is the main room of home. It is hard to make a good meal without good kitchen countertop. Thus,...
  4. Avonite Countertops - Avonite is a type of material, which is soft to be moulded in any desired design. These kinds of materials...
  5. Countertop Styles - Countertops are used these days as a general commodity and are used extensively by many people. These are much greater...

del.icio.us Digg Furl Ask BlinkList Google Ma.gnolia Netscape Rojo Technorati Windows Live

Permalink • Print • Your Feedback Here

Leave a Comment or Ask a Question