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Countertop Alternative: Concrete

Meghan Stromberg, Senior Editor
January 1, 2003
Professional Builder

Heather McCune
A cast-in copper accent plate personalizes this countertop made by Chicago-based Soupcan Inc. Subtle or bold hues, patinas, various textures and aggregates are among the options for creating original designs.

Although still a niche product, concrete countertops are a solid alternative to more traditional surfaces. They're desired for their handcrafted nature and creative possibilities.

Jim Peterson, president of The Concrete Network (www.concretenetwork.com), a resource on concrete that includes design ideas and contractor listings, says his client base of concrete artisans has grown from about a dozen to more than 100 in two years.

Cindy Hamm, owner of the Ultimate Edge in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, says, "Many customers love the fact that their countertops will never be like anyone else's. Because mine are poured in place, they are one of a kind."

Concrete countertops:

  • can be made on site (cast in place) or in a shop.

  • are made of cement, lightweight aggregates and a combination of additives and then reinforced with structural steel, wire mesh, fiberglass and/or fibers.

  • can be personalized with pigments, colored glass, stone and metals. are cured, often polished (depending on desired look) and always sealed.

  • weigh about 18.75 pounds per square inch at a standard 1.5-inch thickness (slightly heavier than granite) and can be supported by standard cabinetry.

  • © 2008, Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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