1. COST - Some consumers think of concrete as being a cheaper alternative to other available countertop surfaces. But when you think about buying a concrete countertop, you should do so based on its beauty, artistry, and customization. Standard 1.5" thick concrete countertops range from $85.00 to $125 per square foot.

These items add to the cost:

2. WEIGHT - The standard slab thickness is 1.5", therefore it weighs a little less than standard thickness granite (our concrete weighs about 16.5 pounds per square foot). The minimum thickness for countertops is 1.5", since less than 1.5" would be too thin to provide adequate strength. Backsplashes are cast separately and are 1" thick. Thicker countertops are possible, limited only by the load carrying capacity of the cabinets and floor. You won't need special cabinets to support standard thickness concrete countertops.Virtually any cabinet on the market will suffice.

3. STAINING - Concrete, like granite, is a porous material. Acids (especially red wine, lemon juice, and vinegar) will stain if it is not cleaned up immediately. We use a system that consists of penetrating sealer and a wax topping to protect the finish. Additional coats of wax should be applied periodically to maintain a good appearance.

 4. CHIPPING / CUTTING - It is highly unlikely that your countertops would chip, unless you hit them with a hammer or dropped a very heavy object in a corner. If this occurs, it is possible to patch concrete so as to minimize the appearance of the patch. However, chipping is very unlikely and could only result from extreme abuse of the countertops. Cutting on your countertops can damage the sealer, resulting in increased susceptibility to staining. Cutting on the concrete will also ruin your knives, requiring a professional resharpening to reshape the damaged edge. Remember, concrete is made with stone, the same thing used to sharpen knives (and will therefore dull them just as easily).

5. CLEANING - Maintenance and cleaning couldn't be easier. Damp cloths and water-based cleansers are all that are needed. Some common examples are "Fantastik", "409", "Pine Sol", "Simple Green", "Windex" and bleach. Abrasive cleansers or rough scrubbers should be avoided to prevent scratching the sealer. The sealerwe use does not require periodic recoating like most sealers do. Additional waxing is required only if the existing coating becomes damaged from abuse.