Do Concrete Countertops Crack?
Imperfections in concrete countertops, sinks or floors are part of the appeal. In fact, hairline cracks and slight irregularities are a natural part of the wear and tear and will not affect the structural integrity in the slightest (Such fine cracks are also too narrow to trap food and debris.). And while hairline cracks can be patched, such attempts often look far more obvious than the cracks themselves. Most people prefer the aged appearance that this natural occurrence bestows - in contrast to the cold and unvarying smoothness of plastic products such as Corian or Formica. No matter what reinforcing method is used, hairline cracks may still occur. The hairline cracks are non-structural and should be considered part of the character of each slab.
Are Concrete Countertops Considered A Green Product?
Yes. It doesn't get much more green than stone, sand and water! Those are the materials that make concrete. In addition, the countertops we make can be made with up to 40% recyclable material content. LEED points can be earned for USGBC certification by using concrete for your project. At the end of its life cycle, your countertop itself can be recycled.
Why Would I Want Concrete Counters?
Cast concrete countertops and sinks have become the favorite of designers and architects because concrete can give warmth and color depth not available in granite, marble or Corian. Hand finishing can give them a finish as smooth as glass with a patina that improves over the years. Concrete can be used for countertops in kitchens, bathrooms, vanity tops, islands, backsplashes, sinks, floors, wall tiles, fireplace surrounds and mantles, even window sills. Concrete is an exciting alternative to the more common marble and granite surfaces. Concrete is a stone like material that has a natural warmth and adds a richness to both modern and traditional interior environments. Your concrete countertops, sinks, floors, fireplace surrounds and mantles become a unique expression of who you are.
Who Can Install Concrete Counters?
Like any trade, one must trust the professionals. Camelot Concrete is licensed and bonded to install the finished product, but anyone who has experience installing granite and marble counters can install the finished counter. Camelot Concrete will provide detailed installation instructions.
What Do Concrete Countertops Look Like?
Concrete countertops are a warm, natural looking material that corresponds with the popularity of more natural materials like wood, stone and brick. Chemical stains, coloring pigments, various aggregates, and epoxy coatings can give concrete the look, texture and feel of quarried stone such as marble, granite or limestone. Terrazzo, glass or marble chips worked into the background create a two-toned mottled effect, adding textural interest under the smooth surface. It is important to review samples to be comfortable with your selection. Our concrete countertops are cast in a manufacturing facility where lines and edges can be formed precisely and the countertop can be cast, cured and sealed under controlled conditions. Concrete countertops will exhibit subtle variations in color and texture, which most people feel contributes to their beauty. Each slab is hand cast so each will be unique.
What Colors Are Available?
Camelot Concrete offers our own beautiful standard and premium colors. However, you are limited only by your imagination in creating your custom concrete countertops. There are pigments, stains and aggregate colors that can be added. You can add terrazzo, glass or marble chips for color and texture. Your concrete countertops, sinks, fireplace surrounds and mantles or floors will always be as unique as you are.
How Can I Get Samples?
Standard color samples run in the $25 to $50 range. Custom color samples run $75 and up. Call our Phoenix, AZ or Sarasoto, FL office to arrange to receive your sample.
What Are The Prices Of Concrete Countertops?
Concrete countertops offer you a beautiful, custom, hand made, green building material. The price of your concrete countertop is composed of the countertop construction, shipping (if required) and installation. The prices to manufacture countertops that are standard 1.5" thick range from $75 to $125 per square foot. The price can be effected by: irregular or curbed shapes, integral drain boards, custom edges or backsplashes.
What Are The Thickness And Weight Of Concrete Countertops?
The standard slab thickness is 1.25". Two inch slabs are also quite common. Larger thicknesses are also possible and are sometimes used for aesthetic reasons. If a 6" slab is desired, however, the back and center are still 1.25" thick and the front grows to the desired thickness. So it still looks 6" thick but is only 6" thick in the front. A 1.25" thick standard concrete countertop has an approximate weight of 18.75 pounds per square foot. (Granite is approximately. 18 pounds per square foot). The countertop weight can be less if lightweight concrete is used. Standard cabinetry will support the concrete slabs as the weight of the countertops is distributed over a large area.
What Are The Installation Costs?
Installation of your concrete countertop, when done by Camelot Concrete, runs in the $20 to $40 per square foot range. Other installations, such as when the countertop has been shipped, should be done by a contractor experienced in installing countertops. Rates for this would vary by region of the country. The countertops arrive on the site in a completed state and there should be no modifications required. Camelot Concrete will provide detailed installation instructions. Request these instructions and make sure your installer understands the installation instructions prior to the countertops arriving on site.
Can You Cut On Concrete Countertops?
No. Cutting on the concrete countertop won't hurt the concrete, but will damage the sealer, which can affect the sealer’s ability to keep out water and stains. Cutting boards should always be used when chopping or preparing foods.
Can You Place Hot Pans On Concrete Countertops?
Placing hot pans on the concrete countertop should be avoided. Concrete is very heat resistant, but the concern is damaging or discoloring the sealer. Camelot Concrete can build in trivets of stainless steel, brass or cop