HOW ARE CONCRETE COUNTERTOPS MADE?

If you are considering concrete countertops for your home, you may be curious as to how they are made. Let's take a look at the common steps taken by concrete contractors to make a concrete countertop.

On-site or Off-site:

Depending on your contractor's preferences, concrete countertops may be pre-cast using special casting tables off-site. This method is preferred by some who like keeping the countertop under wraps until it is adequately and properly sealed. Other concrete contractors prefer to build casting forms on site, and pour the countertops directly in place. This is so that they can form the countertops based on specific needs, like curved corners or radius edges.

The Casting:

The materials your concrete countertops are made from a mixture of cement, lightweight aggregates and a contractor-specific combination of additives and reinforcements which can include:

• Silica fume pozzolan, also known as microsilica
• Acrylic
• Structural steel
• Wire mesh
• Fiberglass

Patience is a Virtue

Once the concrete countertop has been cast, it is time to let it cure. This should be done slowly and evenly. This is definitely not a step you want to rush or cut corners on. Depending on your unique situation, this can take a few days up to week.

Grind Away Imperfections

Once your concrete countertops have properly cured, you to want to grind the surface with progressively finer diamond polishing stones. This will increase the durability and add beauty to the finished concrete surface.

Sealant is Key

Each contractor has their own method and number of coats they like to use. For superior quality, particularly in kitchens, you should consider an epoxy sealer or a stained concrete. While this will add to your upfront costs and add another week to the project, it will save you time and frustrations in the long run.

Think Smart

It's always a good idea to consult with multiple concrete coating contractors in order to find the right fit for your project. You want to go with a contractor who you feel most comfortable working with. It's a good rule of thumb to remember that compatibility is just as important as capability.