Concrete is not necessarily the first material you think about when looking to remodel a countertop. It can be a great choice however, there are many things you need to examine before choosing it. For example, you need to see if its cost fits your budget and the advantages and disadvantages.
As of 2021, concrete has become one of the more popular options for countertops. It is considered a modern aesthetic and can suit many different kitchen styles.
What is the Best Concrete to Use for Countertops?
It is important to note that you should not use regular Quickrete for concrete countertops. Instead, the concrete should have a PSI of at least 6000. PSI is what indicates how hard the concrete will be once it dries. Additionally, you need to ensure that it does not dry too fast or slow, or you will face issues with cracking later. You can ask Cabinet Manufacturers Denver about the PSI.
Pros and Cons of Concrete Countertops
Pros
- Beautiful
- Can be made of many colors and finishes
- Can add materials such as glass fragments, lights, shells, or stones for a unique look
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Hard to repair
- Might crack
- Must be sealed each year
- Very heavy
Different Finishes for Concrete Countertops
Finding the best concrete for countertops means that you need to consider appearance. The appearance will vary based on what finish you choose. There are usually three main types, polished, stained, and acid stain,
Polished Concrete
This is the best choice for a modern look. It is smooth, looks high quality, and is usually installed as one large, single concrete slab.
Stained Concrete
Concrete is typically slate gray when it dries, but it can be stained. This must be done during installation, which means it must be done somewhat quickly. There are also other options to change the texture as well.
Acid Stain Concrete
The best method for controlling the pigment in concrete countertops is to do what is called acid staining. Rather than use dye, it uses metallic salts and hydrochloric acid. This is permanent versus other options known to fade or chip. The downside is that there is less control with this option.
Colors Available for Concrete Countertops
All concrete is naturally gray, but there are many popular color options. For example:
- Black Concrete: Provides a more modern look and must be done at least 30 days after curing.
- White Concrete: Looks tidy but more easily shows stains.