Frequently Asked Questions,
Q: Why should I choose concrete over granite or corian?
Concrete is handmade just for you. Any shape, surface finish, and color can be crafted exactly the way you want it. No other piece will ever be cast exactly the same. Concrete can be designed to incorporate special features such as drainboards, cutting board slides, integral sinks, and trivets. These features can add functionality to your home and enhancements to your life. No other material can do that.
Q: How are your counters made? Will you have to make them in our kitchen?Because concrete is such a versatile building material, the quality and process of concrete countertops varies. Some countertop makers make what is called pour in place. This is where the counter is formed right on the cabinets in your home. As you might imagine, there are many disadvantages to this process.
Our concrete is formed in our production studio, where we have a controlled work space and curing environment. The counters are cast upside down, so thesurface quality of the finished piece is far superior. This casting style also allows us to mold features and custom designs into the countertop. Once fully cured, we schedule a time to bring the counters out to your home to be installed.
Q: How long does the process take?Once we have received a deposit, we will come out to your home to create exact templates of your space. Once we have created the templates, the lead time on a custom countertop is 4-6 weeks.
Q: Will the concrete stain?All natural stone surfaces will stain if untreated. Our countertops are treated with a dual process sealing system that will resist most household stains. This is not to say that they are stain proof. Through the years the countertop may experience a few stains, but the natural patina process that happens over time can be quite beautiful. Countertops are integrally colored so even decades later the countertop can be refinished to its original luster.
Q: What kind of routine maintenance is required?We recommend the use of a neutral, non-ammoniated, non-abrasive cleanser that will keep your counter beautiful for years to come. A periodic waxing (3-6 months) with Carnauba Wax will provide an additional protective layer and add luster to the stone.
Q: How does concrete compare to granite in terms of cost?Concrete can be the same or more expensive than granite. Concrete is not a commodity product like granite or marble. Each piece is custom made for individualtastes. Granite and Corian are the wall-to-wall carpets of the industry. Concrete is the Persian rug.
Q: Will these countertops crack?We guarantee our products against structural cracks. Our countertops are reinforced with a state of the art reinforcement technology that eliminates structural cracking. Hairline cracking can occur overtime, however these are extremely rare and only enhance the timeless beauty of the material.
Q: How much do they weigh?Our counters are poured at 2” thick, weighing approximately 24 lbs per square foot.
Q: Will the countertop have seams?If the countertop length is over 7 ½' long, the countertop will have a seam. However, due to our casting process, we are able to design the seam into the piece to be a feature as opposed to something to hide. We can also move the seam to the least conspicuous spot if visual continuity is important. Seam tolerances are 1/8" and are sealed with a clear silicone sealant.
Q: Can I place hot pots on the concrete?We don't recommend it. Concrete is heat resistant, but the sealer and wax are not. Continued exposure to heat will result in ugly marks in the surface. If this issomething you are used to, we recommend designing a trivet into the countertop next to the stove.
Q: I have decided to purchase, what do I do?A representative from our company will work with you on the design of your countertop. A 40% deposit is required upon the commencement of the work. We will then come out to your home or business to create a template.