Being informed... One of the most common misconceptions is that all concrete countertops will easily stain. Today, this is absolutely not true if produced and fabricated under specific practices. The popularity of concrete as a countertop material has driven the industry standards for sealer performance to new heights, with great advancements in sealing technology taking place within the last few years. This is not to say that sealing concrete to achieve the highest durabilty for countertop use is suddenly easy or inexpensive. The sealers that work the best and provide the least amount of maintenance and customer responsibility are expensive and difficult to use.
The sealer and procedure we choose is done one time by us during fabrication. You will not need to re-apply sealer several times a year, wax or oil your counter as is the case with many other materials, especially many of the green countertop options currently available.
Being informed and choosing the right sealing process for you is important when deciding on any cement based solid surface or other natural material option. We highly encourage investigating what other producers of this type of material have to say about the care and maintenance associated with their products. There is a wide range of sealing approaches for concrete and a wide range of expectations.
We are more than happy to answer questions and provide more in-depth information. We want our customers to be informed and happy with their choice. We are constantly trying and testing the latest technologies so that we can offer the most durable and lowest maintenance options available for concrete counters.
Our product
The sealers we prefer to use offer the best stain protection available for concrete. In fact, these sealers even resist household acids like lemon juice and vinegar, cement's worst enemy, very well. These sealers are able to achieve such excellent stain protection because they build an impenetrable barrier.
This impenetrable barrier is topical and is therefore susceptible to scratching if it is abused. Avoid harsh abrasives like Scotch-brite pads, Comet or steel wool. As with all countertops, you should avoid using them as cutting boards and hot pads. Although the concrete itself can handle this type of abuse, significant damage to sealers can occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I use to clean my counter?
We suggest using a pH neutral cleaner. Always use cloth to clean your countertop and never an abrasive pad or scrubby. When cleaning a tough or sticky residue always use more cleaning agent rather than more abrasion.
What if my countertop’s sealer is damaged?
The sealer on your countertop can be repaired if it is damaged. However, damage to the sealer will only occur if it is abused, either due to excessive heat exposure or abrasion.
Where is my countertop made and how long does it take to create?
Everything we produce is pre-cast. This means we will come take measurements of your project onsite and then take it back to our shop to manufacture and fabricate it. From measurements to installation a counter top takes 4 to 6 weeks. Depending on the size, intricacy and other factors like material availability a project can take longer than this and it can also be quicker, as well. Ultimately, the concrete must be adequately cured for various fabrication stages and transportation.
No, because we are building forms specifically for your project there is never any wasted material. There are no drops from cutting that you pay for but never see. Also, because we are forming and pouring we have the ability to put internal reinforcement in our material, making it very strong, adaptive and supportive.
Are there seams?
Yes, because we are pre-casting there are seams. Certain physical restrictions require seams, like weight and mass. If the piece will not fit through the doorway or cannot be safely lifted then it certainly cannot be installed. Seams are quite subtle and are always placed with aesthetics and function in mind.
Do concrete countertops crack?
They can crack. However, cracks in countertops are extremely rare and are usually what are called hairline cracks, meaning they are very small and do no structural damage and are so small there is no material separation. Once installed, cracking on a countertop will generally only occur under severe conditions or misuse.
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Most of our work is done using recycled glass mixes--- which yields a sustainable, eco-friendly product that can contribute to LEED points. In comparison to other recycled glass solid surfaces our material is less expensive, yet comes with greater customization, better durability and less maintenance. Plus it is both manufactured and fabricate locally in Olympia, WA by a small artisan company.
Due to the endless varieties of mix designs and stylings for concrete it is easiest and more accurate to get a quote from us. Quotes, intitial visits and sample viewings are always free.
