Concrete Countertops: Kitchen Design Trend

Concrete Countertops

Renovating your kitchen and deciding on a countertop material? Want to avoid the ever popular granite countertops? You may want to consider the latest trend in kitchen design: concrete countertops. Concrete countertops are perfect for those looking for a unique design element in their kitchen renovation design.

Concrete countertops are made from a general purpose mortar mix of three parts sand to one part cement. Every concrete countertop is made in a custom made cast, making it one of a kind. They are often precast in molds to be formed and cured under controlled conditions; however, some fabricators prefer to cast the countertop on the site.

Not sure if concrete countertops can compliment your kitchen's decor? Concrete countertops can perfectly accompany industrial, contemporary, and rustic style kitchens. Concrete can be warm and rustic, sleek and elegant, or very ornate. With the endless customizations, concrete countertops can be suited for almost any style.

Customized Countertops

The main attraction to concrete countertops is that it is completely customizable. Not only is the overall shape custom made, you can also incorporate custom colors and features to make the concrete countertop true to your personal taste.

Custom Colors

Concrete countertops can come in an unlimited variety of colors and have several options of ways to dye it. Colored concrete can be created by integral pigment, acid staining, or dye. Each process creates a completely different look and style, so it is important to speak with your installer and/or project manager to help determine which process is right for you. To keep concrete countertops from looking too sidewalk-like, many installers mix in different colors with the concrete. Others simply experiment with a combination of colors and can even create stunning designs.

Built-In Features

Just as it is easy to incorporate custom color designs in your concrete countertops, it is also easy to add built-ins, such as drainboards and trivets. Instead of choosing a sink from a manufacturer, a one of a kind sink can be set in place with intricate curves and angles added to the design, making it the "wow" factor of the room.

Photo: Concrete Exchange

Personal Momentos

Personal touches can be made by incorporating personal items such as seashells, broken china pieces, coins, or glass pieces, petrified wood, or mosaic inlays.

Maintenance of Concrete Countertops

In order to ensure full enjoyment of your concrete countertop, choosing a high quality sealer is essential. There are two main types of sealers: penetrating sealers and topical sealers. While there is no one perfect sealer, it is important to address your expectations of a sealer and discuss them with your installer or project manager.

Although concrete is rugged and durable, some scratching can occur. While scratching is possible for every concrete countertop, darker colors are more susceptible. Thus, it is important to steer clear of aggressive cleaners and to avoid too much scrubbing. This can eventually wear down the sealer.

While concrete countertops may be considered trendy, we don't expect them to go out of style in the near future since they are an overall neutral material. Not only is concrete becoming a popular countertop material, it is also gaining popularity in other parts of the kitchen and in the bathroom. Concrete is being used as floor tiles in the kitchen, and as a seamless vanity top in the bathroom. The possibilities are endless when it comes to concrete.

Why You Should Consider Quartz Countertops For Your Kitchen Renovation

Over the past several years, granite has always taken the lead in kitchen countertop materials. However, there is a newer, more popular, contender: quartz countertops. According to Kitchen and Bath Design News, "quartz is the most popular kitchen countertop material, and trending up. Granite, the second most popular countertop material, is trending down."

Photo: MSI Stone

Unlike granite countertops, which consist of slabs of natural stone, quartz countertops are not entirely made up of quartz. Quartz countertops are manufactured from 95% ground natural quartz with approximately 5% polymer resins; however, these numbers can vary between manufacturers. This is why they are sometimes referred to as "engineered stone countertops."

The appearance of the countertops depends on how finely milled the quartz is. Coarser quartz produces a flecked surface, while finer quartz yields a smooth surface. Until recently, quartz would often try to mimic the sought-after look of granite. These days, many homeowners are choosing the smooth, clean looking quartz countertops. This is particularly true in contemporary kitchens.

The main advantage of quartz over granite is that it is non-porous, which means that it does not require sealing. It is also more durable against scratches and stains, and can be cleaned easily with soap and water. Since it is easy to work with, quartz has even been showing up in bathroom showers and kitchen backsplashes. A great factor about quartz is that it is available in endless color options, with many that wouldn't be naturally available in stone.

Photo: Bob Vila

As an added bonus, quartz is becoming more affordable than it has been in the past. This may be due to its rise in popularity and the rising number of manufacturers that offer it. As for price, quartz countertops will run you about the same as granite.

While quartz countertops have many advantages, there are a couple of disadvantages to this material. One minor drawback of quartz countertops to keep in mind is that it is not very heat resistant. Hot pads and trivets are a must for those who have quartz in their kitchens. Additionally, it is highly recommended to hire a professional when installing quartz countertops. After all, quartz countertops are extremely heavy.

It is easy to see why quartz countertops are becoming more and more popular in kitchen renovations. With its non-porous surface, competitive pricing, and lifelong durability; it is clear why quartz is a main contender for countertops.

Are Waterfall Countertops Just a Fad?

While they originated in ultra modern designs, waterfall countertops are rising in popularity in several design styles these days. They give off a sleek, clean, and contemporary appearance. However, are waterfall countertops just the latest trend? Or do we think they will stick around for a few years to come?

Photo: DecorPad

Waterfall countertops can work beautifully on both kitchen islands and on a peninsula. Some homeowners may choose to include waterfall countertops to protect wood countertops and help to hide appliances. They work extremely well in high traffic areas since they are typically easy to clean and are more durable than cabinets; thus, they can withstand constant bumps and dings.

We recommend including waterfall countertops in larger kitchens, or kitchens with an open concept. The extra slab of countertop material may be overwhelming to small, enclosed spaces. Additionally, a dark colored waterfall countertop can make the room feel heavy, which is why many homeowners choose a lighter color-such as a bright white or a warm beige.

When choosing a material for a waterfall countertop, durability is a huge concern. Try to pick a durable material, such as granite or quartz. Choosing between a solid color slab versus one with more speckles and veining is up to you. Keep in mind that waterfall countertops tend to serve as a focal point in the room, so choose a texture that you love and won't be too overwhelming to your space.

Photo: Pinterest

Another factor you should consider about waterfall countertops on kitchen islands is the enclosed seating underneath. Since the "waterfall" section is the same width as the countertop, there will be extra material at the end of the seating area of your island. For those who love to entertain and are looking to include as much seating as possible, a waterfall countertop may not be the best option. Foregoing a waterfall countertop will allow you to squeeze in one or two more seats when there are a lot of guests over.

If you plan on selling your home in the near future, you may not want to include this trend. While some love the look of waterfall countertops, others may not be a huge fan. When remodeling a kitchen for resell, it is best to choose timeless finishes and materials to avoid turning away any potential buyers.

Having a waterfall countertop will help to create a clean, updated look to any kitchen remodel or renovation. While they may be one of the last trends right now, who knows-they may turn out to be a timeless staple in kitchen design. If you love waterfall countertops, add it to your kitchen! Your kitchen should be a place that you love spending time in. When planning a kitchen remodel, try not to get too caught up in what's in and what's out and choose pieces that you love.

5 Countertop Options You Didn't Think Of

Kitchen remodels can be exciting, yet daunting remodels due to their extensive nature and materials list. There are many material choices to be made, ranging from: flooring, cabinetry, wall color, appliances, and countertops. Today, granite and quartz are both very popular options due to their durability and beautiful aesthetics. However, don’t think that granite and quartz are your only two options for quality countertops. (To learn more about granite and quartz countertops, check out this article.) Don’t be afraid to try something new for your kitchen remodel and step outside of the box! Here are five types of countertops that you might not have considered before:

Custom wine bar installed in place of a small closet

Soapstone

Since soapstone is dense and non-porous, drops and spills can be easily wiped up and you don’t have to worry about staining. Each soapstone slab is entirely unique from the next and provides charming aesthetic. This material is non-porous and will never absorb liquids. Anyone with a soapstone countertop can choose to add mineral oil to the countertop. This creates a darker hue. In comparison, soapstone can be left alone and develop a natural patina over time. An additional bonus is that it is extremely heat resistant, so leaving warm pots and pans on the counter won’t affect the soapstone.

Copper

Copper countertops can be a beautiful option for you space since they add warmth through their rich earthy tones. A benefit of copper is that it is easy to clean and are naturally microbial. Most stains and spills can be easily wiped up and cleaned with soap and water; however, copper can be tarnished and will react to spills. This can be a benefit or a drawback since it will create an “inconsistent” look that some people prefer, while others steer away from.

Zinc

Zinc is similar to stainless steel countertops in that they share the same gray metallic coloring. Zinc is similar to copper in that it develops a patina over time since it reacts with water, fingerprints, spills, and stains. Again, this countertop may not be the right choice for perfectionists who prefer a consistent look and feel. In addition, zinc countertops are non-porous and have anti-bacterial properties that make it a good choice for food preparation.

Mineral Oil Being Applied to Butcher Block. Photo: Wikipedia

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are composed of thick strips of maple. oak, cherry, or walnut and are glued together to form a solid surface. Although maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are the more popular choices for countertops, almost any type of wood can be used for butcher block countertops. They also come finished or un-finished, depending on whether or not you intend on using the countertop for a cutting board or for display. Luckily, both sealed and un-sealed butcher block countertops can be refinished to reveal virtually good-as-new countertops for a small cost.

Concrete

Concrete is an extremely durable material and can withstand wear and tear without chipping or scratching. It can also be formed into any shape imaginable since it is poured. A bonus of concrete countertops is that they are also heat resistant, so setting your hot pots and pans on the counter won’t lead to warping. They can also be easily customized since they can be made in an endless possibility of colors. However, concrete countertops need to be sealed in order to protect it from heat, water, and stains.

Kitchen countertops can will affect the feel in any space. When choosing countertops for a kitchen remodel, it is important to consider style, durability, and costs when assessing what is right for your home. Kitchen countertops can take up a large portion of your budget when doing a kitchen remodel, but it can also add value to your home. Call Balducci Additions and Remodeling today for any further questions on kitchen countertops, along with any other questions regarding kitchen remodeling. We have over 30 years of experience and we would love to assist you and creating your dream kitchen. Give us a call at 804-730-0982.