Iron Design

Why would I want concrete counters?

Cast concrete countertops have become the favorite of designers and architects because concrete can give warmth and color depth not available in granite, marble or Corian. Hand finishing can give them a finish as smooth as glass with a patina that improves over the years.

Concrete can be used anywhere that tiles, Corian, slate, granite or marble are used. It can be used for countertops in kitchens, bathrooms, vanity tops, islands, backsplashes, sinks, floor and wall tiles, fireplace surrounds and mantles, and even windowsills.

Concrete is an exciting alternative to the more common marble and granite surfaces. Concrete is a stone like material that has natural warmth; it adds richness to both modern and traditional interior environments. They are a unique expression of who you are. They also create a warm presence in any room of your home or business, and have the ability to complement any interior whether classic or modern.

How much do they cost?

Concrete countertops are a custom crafted material and therefore should be priced accordingly. Concrete countertops should be sold (or bought) based on being a beautiful, custom, hand made, and relatively unique product. Customers going in thinking the countertops will be low budget items will quickly find out otherwise.

The price of the concrete countertop is composed of the countertop construction, shipping (if required), and installation.

Prices to Manufacture Concrete Countertops

Standard 1.5″ thick concrete countertops range from $60 to $95 per square foot, so please consult your craftsman for his/her average prices.

A few things that can add to the cost of your concrete counter:

• Irregular or curbed shapes.
• 2″ thick concrete.
• Integral Drain boards
• Back splashes

Some countertop contractors only quote on a per job basis. Requiring a dimensioned plan view indicating all back splashes, sink cutouts, and any other cutouts.

Shipping Costs

Countertop contractors in almost all cases install their own product in their market area. So there would be no shipping expense. Shipping method and carrier, for those firms that do ship, varies by contractor. Discuss this with the contractor.

Installation Costs

Installation and edging is included with the price quote!

Most of the concrete countertop contractors provide detailed installation instructions. Request these instructions and make sure your installer understands the installation instructions prior to the countertops arriving on the jobsite…these are custom, one of a kind products.

How thick is a concrete countertop?

The standard slab thickness is 1.5″. 2″ slabs are also quite common. Larger thickness is also possible and is done for aesthetic reasons. If a 6″ slab is desired, however, the back and center are still 1.5″ thick and the front “grows” to the desired thickness. So it still looks 6″ thick but is only 6″ thick in the front.

What is the weight of a concrete counter?

A 1.5″ thick standard concrete countertop has an approximate weight of 18.75 pounds per square foot. (Granite is approximately 18 pounds per square foot.) The countertop weight can be less if lightweight concrete is used. Though some countertop contractors will not use lightweight concrete because it has less strength. Most building codes require a minimum design load for a floor of about 65lbs per square foot. A typical cabinet will support the concrete weight.

Can I get concrete in different colors?

Yes. Like most decorative concrete systems, you may choose from a wide range of colorings for your countertops. Each contractor will have different methods of coloring your countertop, ranging from integral coloring, broadcast color hardeners, and acid staining. Most contractors can custom color match samples.

Do concrete counter tops look the same every time?

No, the real beauty of using concrete as a material for your countertop is that each cast is unique. It’s color, texture and porosity will vary depending on finishing technique, coloring, curing methods, and skill. They are true works of art and therefore…. No two are alike.

What are the size limitations for concrete counter tops?

This is often a debatable topic among our contractors but generally speaking, slabs should not exceed around 8′ x 3′. Oversized slabs are usually hard to work with and are also more likely to crack. This just means that for large applications seams may be required but they can become a very attractive element of the design.

Do concrete counter tops crack?

Yes concrete counter tops may and get hairline cracking. This really does depend on the method of construction, conditions during the cure, and finishing techniques. This natural impression often adds to the rustic feel of the final product. Most slabs should be reinforced with steel rebar and wire mesh; therefore the hairline cracks do not affect the structural integrity of the slabs.

Will concrete counters stain?

Most concrete counter slabs should have a sealer applied for water and stain resistance. The type of sealer used on the concrete countertops varies depending on your situation and you/your contractors’ personal preferences. They vary from food safe, water-based, acrylic, epoxy sealers, and liquid wax.

How do I keep it clean?

Avoid abrasive soaps or cleansers. You can use a mild, non-abrasive, non-ammoniated soap for daily cleaning. We suggest Simple Green (dilute as suggested) or Dr. Bronner’s natural soap (5 parts water, one part soap). Soupcan, Inc. recommends a neutral pH cleanser and warm water. You should avoid using abrasive pads. In short, cleaning your countertop is not going to be any more difficult than cleaning any other type of countertops. Follow the instructions provided by the countertop contractor.

Can I cut on the concrete counters?

Cutting directly on the counter is not recommended, as for any counter top. You can cut on a counter, but it will leave a mark in the sealer, which would compromise the counters water and stain resistance, it will also dull your knives.

What is the maximum unsupported cantilever for a concrete counter?

This is a matter of conjecture for different contractors but, the average is about 12″. This figure is based on the fact the other end of the slab has support for at lease twice your cantilever.

Who can install concrete counters?

Like any trade one must trust the professionals. Your concrete craftsman will most likely prefer to install the finished product, but anyone who has experience installing granite and marble counters can install the finished counter.

How do I get a project priced?

Like all other construction or home remodeling projects, you should call and contact us for an appointment.