From rough-hewn to refined, concrete countertops have moved beyond the drab slabs of the past. Advancements have catapulted concrete into the world of architectural-grade products, alongside popular stone and wood options. A concrete countertop is a serious contender for those seeking a customized material with a natural sensibility: It’s widely adaptable but definitely not for those who cherish perfection. Is a concrete counter the right material for you and your kitchen? Read on.
(P.S.: It’s not just for counters; see also Remodeling 101: The Cult of the Concrete Sink.)
What exactly is concrete?
Concrete is a natural composite material made from an aggregate (typically rocks, sand, and fly ash) plus a cement binder (such as limestone and calcium sulfate) and water. (For those wondering what the difference is between concrete and cement, the answer is that cement is a component of concrete: Sidewalks are made of concrete, not cement.) Several companies offer sustainable versions of concrete composed of high percentages of recycled content, including waste fly ash, glass dust, and rice husks. The finished product weighs about the same as granite.
“Unlike concrete counters of the past, the new concrete counters are lighter and some have polymers mixed in, so they don’t stain or crack,” says architect Alissa Pulcrano of Portland, Oregon’s Bright Designlab.
How is a concrete countertop fabricated and installed?
Concrete counters are either precast in a shop or cast in place during your kitchen construction.
Precast Concrete Counters
The majority of today’s concrete counters are precast—and for good reason. Made to order in any size you like, precast counters are poured in the controlled environment of a shop, enabling more color and texture options as well as the ability to use modern reinforcement technology (more on that below). Each counter is handmade, enabling customization of shape, thickness, sink, and appliance cutouts, and additional details such as an integrated dish drainer. Precasting also offers the ability to create a wider range of counter edge options than you can make on-site. An identifying sign of precast concrete counters is that they come with visible seams, which is not necessarily a bad thing: Seams enable the counter to flex and move a bit more, reducing the likelihood of cracks that occur with concrete’s natural shrinkage over time.
Cast-in-Place Concrete Counters
Counters are often cast in place in setups that require irregular shapes. And when poured on-site, counters typically do not have seams. Ambitious DIYers can try making their own; there are scores of how-to videos on YouTube and other sites.
What colors and textures are available for concrete countertops?
Concrete countertops can be made in virtually any color, though stony gray continues to be the most widely used. Concrete finishes range from rough-hewn to diamond-polished. That said, there are natural variations in color and texture that occur as the counter is crafted and cured; to concrete advocates, it’s one of the material’s appealing qualities.
Concrete counters mix well with other countertop materials. Architect Roy Leone of Leone Design Studio likes to use concrete when trying to bring more warmth and a greater tactile quality to countertops. “Since they’re handmade, they have a character that simply doesn’t exist in stone or synthetic materials,” he says. “The great thing about concrete is that you can adjust the color to be browner or bluer or whatever works with the overall palette.”
Does a concrete countertop need to be sealed and maintained?
Like most natural countertop materials, concrete is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent staining. And, depending on the sealant used, some discoloration and patina may develop—a chance outcome that’s appealing to some, appalling to others. Sealing technology is now so advanced that some fabricators call their concrete counters stain-proof, and provide warranties against staining. Talk to your fabricator or contractor about the best sealant for the look you want. Maintenance is minimal with concrete countertops: Regular cleaning with nonabrasive cleaners is recommended, as is periodic waxing if your counters have a polished finish.
Placing hot pans directly on concrete counters won’t harm the concrete, but may discolor the sealant. Also, cutting directly on concrete will not only damage your cutlery but also may result in scratches in the sealant; cutting boards and trivets are recommended.
How much do concrete counters cost?
Handcrafted and custom made for each application, concrete counters are not a budget item. Because of the variability of material and situation, prices range from $70 to $140 per square foot. According to Mark Rogero of Concreteworks, a good rule of thumb is to plan for $120 per square foot for a fully installed architectural-grade concrete counter.
Concrete Countertop Recap
Pros
- Concrete counters are a custom handmade product that you can design to fit your space and aesthetic.
- Concrete is available in a wide array of colors that can be adjusted to match your palette.
- Despite being a hard surface, concrete provides a soft, textured, natural feel to counters.
- Properly sealed and maintained, concrete countertops will wear well for years—and can be used indoors and out.
- Like other natural countertop materials, such as wood and stone, concrete counters develop a patina with use.
Cons
- Concrete is a porous material and can stain. Sealing is key.
- Caused by the natural shrinkage of the material, concrete countertops can develop minor hairline cracks that are nonstructural—some consider these a flaw, others a positive textural characteristic.
- It’s hard to control concrete’s natural variations in color and texture
Researching new countertops? Get more ideas on how to evaluate and choose your kitchen countertop in our Remodeling 101 Guide: Kitchen Countertops, and see our Remodeling 101 posts:
- 10 Easy Pieces: Remodelista Kitchen Countertop Picks
- Remodeling 101: Butcher Block Countertops
- Remodeling 101: Soapstone Countertops
- Remodeling 101: Marble Countertops
- Remodeling 101: Paper Composite Countertops for the Kitchen
N.B.: This post is an update. It originally ran on December 17, 2013.
Frequently asked questions
What are concrete kitchen countertops?
Concrete kitchen countertops are countertops made from a mixture of cement, aggregates, and water. They are typically custom-made on-site or precast in a workshop and offer a unique and modern look for kitchen surfaces.
What are the advantages of concrete countertops?
Concrete countertops have several advantages. They are highly customizable in terms of shape, size, color, and texture. They are durable, heat-resistant, and can be made with integral sinks. Concrete countertops also offer a contemporary and industrial aesthetic.
Are concrete countertops suitable for all kitchen styles?
Concrete countertops can work well in various kitchen styles, ranging from modern and industrial to rustic and farmhouse. The versatility of concrete allows it to be customized to match different design aesthetics.
How are concrete countertops made?
Concrete countertops are typically made by pouring a mixture of cement, aggregates, and water into molds. The concrete is then cured and sealed to achieve the desired finish. The process involves careful measurement, reinforcement, and attention to detail.
Can concrete countertops be stained or colored?
Yes, concrete countertops can be stained or colored to achieve a wide range of shades and tones. Pigments or dyes are added to the concrete mixture or applied as stains after the countertops are formed. This allows for customization and can mimic the appearance of natural stone or other materials.
Are concrete countertops prone to cracking?
Concrete countertops can develop hairline cracks over time due to factors like settling or temperature changes. However, proper reinforcement techniques, including the use of steel or fiberglass mesh, can minimize the likelihood of cracking. It's important to work with an experienced professional to ensure proper construction and minimize potential issues.
How do I clean and maintain concrete countertops?
Concrete countertops should be sealed to protect them from stains and spills. Regular cleaning can be done with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that can damage the sealer. Re-sealing the countertops periodically is recommended to maintain their appearance and protection.
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