A Primer on Concrete Countertops

I have dealt with a wide variety of decorative concrete products over the last decade from tile to sinks to countertops and the main appeal for me is its organic quality. Concrete is made up primarily of portland cement, water and aggregates. Beyond that, many artisans consider their unique recipes and fabrication process "proprietary" so as to maintain the integrity of their work.

There are a few companies in the market that produce exceptionally "refined" concrete products. I say refined because their fabrication is such that the end product has typically better structural integrity, with a remarkable "fit and finish" that sets it apart from others. These companies have placed emphasis into research and development to fabricate–for example–products that are lighter weight, greener, or even crack resistant.

(Targhee Ranch Project 2007, Concrete Habitat)

But why concrete countertops? With so many options to choose from in the market today, concrete stands out among them for its unique characteristics. The best explanation I have found can be summed up below. *

In the areas of form and function, laminates, solid-surface and granite don't measure up to concrete. It's hard, durable and heat-resistant, and it's impressively solid. Furthermore, it's not the same, tired upgrade granite. No other kitchen will have a countertop that's anything like yours.

Because concrete starts as a fluid mixture, it takes the shape of its mold. Through the structure of the mold, you can integrate other functionalities into a concrete countertop, like a drain board that slopes to the sink, a trough to hold eggs and convenient storage for knives.

Concrete's plasticity also allows you to think beyond the typical rectangle countertop with a bull nose edge. Cast in concrete, your countertop can take on curves, angles and a vertical sink face. The edges can show a Florentine relief, geometric pattern or spell out a favorite saying. If you can craft it into the mold, you can replicate it in your countertop.

*Kolich, Heather. "How Concrete Countertops Work." 06 October 2008. HowStuffWorks.com. 18 October 2009.

In short, concrete countertops deliver beauty and individuality in your equally unique space. The price can range from as little as $50 per square foot if you choose the DIY method and upwards of $200 per square foot or more for a truly custom look using reputable fabricators. But in the end, the result is unmatched and priceless.

~P~