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There are many materials used for
countertops, laminate, ceramic and porcelain tile,
marble, granite, stainless steel, synthetic epoxy
compounds and hardwoods. One of the newest materials to
be used for countertops in the residential market is
concrete.
What advantages does a concrete
countertop provide to the New York homeowner - primarily
the ability to create a unique aspect of your room.
Unlike most countertop materials concrete has the
advantage that you can embed objects in such as a piece
of ceramic or porcelain tile to act as a trivet or a
cutting board which is level with the surface. Concrete
can be cast into almost any shape imaginable and it can
be textured or polished.
It is possible to have sinks cast
directly in the concrete countertop or you can choose to
have a surface or under mount sink made of another
material.
Concrete generally compares in price per
square foot with marble and granite. The price is based
on the complexity of the form, any embedded objects and
the surface finish rather than the actual size of the
countertop. When shopping for a concrete countertop it
is important to visit the manufacturer and discuss the
details.
Edges of a concrete countertop can be
finished with traditional styling and shapes, but with
concrete, it is also possible to provide decorative
inlays such as brass or stainless steel strips.
Depending on the manufacture and the
shape of the required countertop it can be formed
directly in place or at the manufacture’s facility.
Having it manufactured in a controlled environment
production facility, generally provides a better
product.
The coloring of concrete is accomplished
by blending color pigments into the concrete mix. Hence,
the color is not on the surface but is throughout the
countertop.
It is important to point out that a
concrete countertop is not created with general purpose
concrete available in 60 pound bags at your local home
improvement center. Depending on the manufacturer the
concrete will have epoxies and materials such as
fiberglass added to the blend to provide strength.
Surprisingly, concrete countertops are
generally not recommended for outdoor use. Freezing
problems in cold climates and UV problems in very sunny
climates can cause problems with the finish.
A concrete countertop is not made to be
a cutting surface. Besides the fact that you can scratch
the finish with a knife blade, it will destroy the knife
blade edge as well. As a cutting surface, concrete is no
different than natural stones such as marble or granite.
Concrete also reacts in the same manner as granite to
excessive heat. Areas that experience excessive heat may
flake.
It is important to apply a good finished
sealer to concrete to avoid possible staining by acid
based products such as red wine, vinegar, tomato and
lemon juice. Some manufacturers use an epoxy finish that
is actually harder than the concrete itself. Other’s use
a penetrating sealer and wax combination.
If you are looking for a bathroom
remodeling contractor, please click on
the link below.
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