When choosing a new countertop for your kitchen, weigh up the pros and cons of concrete. This type of countertop is very popular today, mainly because it’s customizable, stylish, strong and durable.Every product on the market has pros and cons, so let’s look closer.
A Concrete Countertop Can Be Stylish
Maybe the biggest negative idea people might have when they first think about a concrete countertop for their kitchen is that it would be gray and ugly. But it can look unique and amazing. Color options are almost unlimited. Staining techniques can convince people you have a gorgeous and one-of-a-kind piece of granite or marble in your kitchen. You can either match your existing motifs, furniture or appliances, or else create a standout feature.
Aside from the color, concrete countertops can also be given all kinds of shapes and textures. You could have one shaped like anything: a guitar, a boat, a sail, you name it. Or your concrete countertop could be embedded with tiles, stones or shells. It could even be a mosaic depicting a scene or image.
Concrete can also be less costly than marble or granite.
The Concrete Countertop Can Be Everything in One
There’s no need to buy a sink with drainboard. In fact, there’s no need for separate counter pieces to be cut and joined, either. A concrete countertop can include everything in one seamless piece. Therefore you won’t have to apply plumber’s putty or silicone around the sink. A backsplash may be able to be incorporated into the unit, also.
For other areas of the kitchen, concrete can be your all-purpose surface for everything from food preparation to party presentation to general workspace.
Concrete is Tough and Can Be Environmentally Friendly
Concrete can take the punishment of time and use better than other materials. It weathers and wears over time without major deterioration. A good company that makes concrete countertops will use only non-toxic materials sourced ethically and with minimal environmental impact.
The Cons of Concrete Countertops: Weight and Maintenance
Like we said, all products have cons as well as pros. The most practical thing to consider with a concrete countertop is how heavy it is. While weight can provide stability and strength, your home and your kitchen must be able to support it. An experienced contractor will know how to check if your home is up to the task.
A concrete countertop also requires consistent maintenance. First, it needs a good sealant to protect it from stains. Then it needs resealing every couple of years. If this is not taken care of, any stain can become permanent. Most sealants can handle hot things being placed on them, but it’s best to play it safe and use pads and boards for hot plates and pots.
Look around at what is happening with concrete countertops today and the options open to you. Concrete may surprise you and could be an option that is very different than what you first thought.
Greg Nelson is the owner of Nelson Construction & Renovations Inc. He is a Florida State Certified Building Contractor, creating artistry in all areas of design and construction projects. He is a musician, and artist. A husband and father, Greg appreciates all the wonderful elements of family life.
Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Nelson Construction and a clickable link back to this page.
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