When you hear the word concrete, immediately…roads, pavements and sidewalks come to your mind. Thinking of it as a countertop just like quartz or granite countertops to accommodate your cooking needs in the kitchen is utterly absurd right? Wrong!

The 1970s started a trend of pouring the concrete cement into kitchen countertop slabs because granite and other natural stones were not affordable for the masses. What used to have a place in the homes of the underprivileged now have a luxurious setting in the homes of the elite.

Concrete countertops has now emerged as full-fledged industry for kitchen countertops. Do not think of it as a dull and gray sidewalk but think of it as slab with artistic patterns, designs, colors and unique techniques. The question is how to choose the perfect concrete countertop for your kitchen?

How It Is Constructed?

There are 2 ways of constructing a concrete countertop for your kitchen:

1. The first one is the pouring method where the experts mix the cement, add the mixing such as resins, pigments and colors and then pour it directly to your countertop. This can get very messy in your kitchen and it will take ages to clean off the excess if spilled anywhere so you have to be extra careful. This can also be done as a DIY project but professionals recommend not to do it as it can get messy and also imperfect.
2. The second is that a concrete slab is made by skilled artisans in the shops or factories and then brought to your home and fitted. The only issue with it is the transportation as it can get damaged if handled roughly.

Factors To Consider While Choosing A Concrete Countertop

Making of the concrete kitchen countertop is no easy task but involves the work or immaculate artisans and has developed into a whole industry. Concrete is a hard and durable material but also very porous so requires maintenance. No doubt it is extremely cheap as compared to natural stones such as granite or marble but the cost of designing, executing colors, adding luxurious effects can add up to much more than granite. There are many factors that go into consideration when choosing concrete countertop.

The Weight Factor

The first thing you need to consider in kitchen countertop selection is whether your existing cabinets can sustain the weight of the concrete countertop or not. Concrete is a hard, heavy and a sturdy material and requires a heavy cabinet base for it. It is not recommended if your cabinet base is not strong and durable or it may stumble due to the weight.

Reliable Contractor

The second thing you should look for is experience. Always go for an experienced contractor or company for concrete countertops. Any negligence in making the countertop can distort its shape. Concrete can be easily molded into any shape, any design and can be in any color. But the techniques of creating unique and beautiful shapes and designs cannot be done by just anyone. It requires skill, expertise and concentration.

Cost

Cost is another factor to be considered. Do your homework well. Look for the person that offers you an affordable price. Cut your costs but make sure to not compromise on the quality.

Consider Sealing After Installation

Concrete is basically poured cement so it needs to be sealed after it is completely made. It is porous and food solids and solvents may seep inside causing growth of bacteria. Also you need to consider health when chopping or cutting food. So always go for a food grade sealant.

Opt for a company that applies 3 to 4 coats of food grade sealants. Some people use epoxy and then coat it with wax but that may include chemicals which are unhealthy for keeping food items. Best is to use a penetrating food grade sealant to increase the longevity of your countertop as well as taking health into consideration.

Moreover, always go for the contractor for countertop replacement Durham NC that has an established name and is a professional. You may think that concrete is easy to make but a little variation in the mixture can create a distorted figure. For instance, too little water may make it malleable or too much water may produce cracks.