Concrete countertops are gaining popularity, but they can still be controversial. Concrete countertops are versatile and can be used to create unique designs, while others view them as a functional material with little appeal. Pittsburgh Concrete countertops are heavier than other countertop materials. Concrete countertops can be precast or poured in situ and often include rebar, fiber reinforcement, and wire mesh.

Concrete Countertop Pros

• Versatile Concrete: Concrete is versatile in that it can be stained with different colors. Additionally, concrete can have items such as glass or stones embedded within it for a unique look. Concrete can also be customized to meet the needs of your kitchen. Concrete can be molded with veining or a live edge look.
• Concrete countertops are durable: Concrete countertops last a lifetime if maintained regularly with routine maintenance, such as annual sealing and regular waxing.
• Premium kitchen surface: Many people consider concrete countertops a premium surface for their kitchens and believe they can help increase the home's market value.

Concrete Countertop Cons

• Expensive You might think concrete countertops are cheap. Concrete countertops can run from $65 to $135 per square foot. Additionally, labor costs to install concrete countertops can range from $40 - $50 per hour per person. Concrete takes 28 days for it to cure.
• Concrete countertops are susceptible to staining and chipping: Concrete countertops can chip, just like other stone surfaces. Concrete countertops can also crack or sustain scratches. Concrete is porous. This means that it can absorb spillages and even bacteria growth.
• Heavy Concrete countertops can cause additional stress to cabinets or floors if they are not installed correctly. It is essential to have concrete countertops that are appropriately supported.

Concrete Countertops Cost

Concrete countertops are affordable at $65 to $100 per square foot. This basic design includes straight edges and standard knockouts for faucets and sinks.

Concrete countertop costs range from $100-$135 per square foot. This includes the addition of custom or decorative shapes, edges, additional color options, and more finish options.

 

Concrete countertops can be as high as $135 per square foot. Homeowners can choose the thickness, shape, color, and design options. You can install concrete countertops, but it's not easy. A medium-sized kitchen will cost you around $1,000.

Concrete Countertop Care and Maintenance

Concrete countertops require regular maintenance, just like other stone countertops. Concrete countertops require sealing at the time of installation. They will also need to be filled out annually. Concrete countertops should be waxed regularly. To prevent staining, spills must be cleaned up immediately.

Concrete Countertop Design Options

Concrete countertop designs are as flexible as your imagination. Concrete countertops are compatible with many types of kitchens, surprisingly. Concrete countertops are most commonly found in farmhouse-style kitchens. However, concrete countertops can be made in any color and embedded with additional features to create a unique look. You can find all kinds of concrete through a quick Google search on Pinterest. Homeowners can customize concrete countertops to include drainboards or trivets.

Concrete Countertop Installation

Concrete countertop construction is a tedious process. The concrete must cure for 28 days before installing it in your kitchen. This requires careful planning and precise measurements. Concrete is difficult to transport and install because it weighs 19-25 pounds per square foot.

 

Concrete countertops can be installed by a professional. They will either pour them directly on site or use preformed slabs. Once the concrete is installed, it must be sealed and waxed. Concrete countertops often need additional support to support the extra weight.

Concrete Countertop Lifespan

Concrete countertops can be subject to the same wear and tear as other stone countertops, but concrete countertops will last for a lifetime if they are sealed yearly, waxed, and spills cleaned up quickly.

Concrete countertops can be cleaned with a pH-neutral cleaner, a scum or hard water deposit remover.

 

Concrete can also be affected by acid stains like lemons being cut on the counter. Concrete etching can be fixed by polishing the area, grouting holes, and sealing the counter. A fine-grit diamond pad with a high polish can be used to remove lighter etching. An 800-grit place is a good starting point. You can switch to a 400-grit pad if it's not working.

Bottom line

Concrete countertops are great for industrial or farmhouse-style looks. However, concrete can be used in many kitchen styles. Concrete countertops have their challenges and are difficult to maintain, but concrete countertops can be unique. If you decide concrete is suitable for you, plan to hire a professional to install the countertops.