FAQ’s For Concrete Countertops…

Q. How do we make concrete countertops?
Q. Where can I use concrete in my home?
Q. Is concrete a clean surface for indoor use?
Q. What are my color choices?
Q. What edges are available?
Q. How long does the countertop process take?
Q. Will concrete crack?
Q. Will concrete scratch?
Q. Will concrete stain?
Q. Can I place hot pans / dishes on my concrete countertop?
Q. Will concrete chip?
Q. Will my cabinets need to be reinforced?
Q. How are the countertops installed?
Q. What kind of sinks can be used with concrete countertops?
Q. What about backsplashes?
Q. How do I care for my concrete countertop?
Q. How much do concrete counters cost?
Q. What kind of warranty do you offer?

How do we make concrete countertops?

Most of the products we produce are pre-cast/built in our shop. We use cement, aggregates, additives and reinforcement materials. After the countertop has cured we perform a finished product that the client desires. Once we have achieved the look and beauty the sealing process begins.

Where can I use concrete in my home?

Concrete countertops can be used both indoors and outdoors. NW Concrete Interiors makes concrete countertops and sinks for kitchens and bathrooms, fireplace mantles, tables, desks, and anywhere else countertops are required. Horizontal countertops must be at least 1½” thick. Thicker countertops are made upon request

Concrete countertops can be straight, curved, notched, multi-level, etc. unlike granite, which would drastically increase in cost. Creating curved concrete shapes involves extra complexity and labor in forming.

Concrete can also be used in vertical applications such as backsplashes, shower surrounds and fireplace surrounds. For vertical applications, concrete is generally 1" thick. Maximum slab length for standard depth countertops is about 10 feet. Seams are located around sinks and cooktops, or wherever required for structural reasons. NW Concrete Interiors will work with you to design seam placement that is both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. It is important to realize that concrete countertops are handcrafted; they are not machine cut, so tolerances for seams are a little more generous than with granite. Seam appearance is minimized by using color-matched acrylic caulk.

Integral and vessel sinks are possible. See the section below on sinks for more information.

Is concrete a clean surface for indoor use?

Yes, concrete does not hold dust, dust mites, mold or other allergens. Our sealer is FDA approved for food use.

What are my color choices?

Endless! We offer a base pallet of a dozen colors plus other colors with a variety of patinas and stains to choose from. Tumbled glass and two-toned concrete is available as well. You can specify embedded stone, glass, or other objects. You can specify the color, size and density of embedments. Coupled with the many color choices, you a have myriad of design options. Custom samples are available to make upon request and usually take about 1½ weeks to fabricate.

What edges are available?

For concrete, edging is formed and cast rather than cut like granite or solid surface. Therefore, edge choices depend on the availability of appropriate trim moulding. For example, we can do pencil, beveled, concave and reverse cove edging, and other custom edges may be available. Edging may be placed on top or bottom of the countertop. Click here for examples of available edge profiles.

How long does the countertop process take?

Our process takes around 4-5 weeks from time of estimate approval to installation.

Will concrete crack?

At NW Concrete Interiors we have formulated a special blend and curing process. Our products carry no structural weaknesses. We use environmentally safe and green products in all of the materials and processes that are performed while making your dream design come true. It is common to have hairline and character marks that are hardly visible to the naked eye, while carrying no structural integrity.

Will concrete scratch?

While the sealer is durable, it can scratch if cut with a knife or subjected to heavy, sharp objects dragged across the surface. Cutting on the concrete may compromise the integrity of the sealer and allow stains to permeate the concrete matrix. If you do scratch a countertop, you can easily repair it yourself using a water-based polyurethane to reseal the scratch.

Will concrete stain?

Bare concrete is very porous and will readily stain. Virtually all concrete countertops are sealed to prevent staining. We use a high-performance sealer that is exceptionally durable and provides excellent resistance to incidental contact with staining agents such as red wine, lemon juice and olive oil. Our sealer is EPA and FDA compliant with no VOCs. We go through a lengthy process of making sure that your end-result product will withstand the wear and tear of the everyday use. Staining can occur if the sealer is compromised (i.e. cutting on or setting a hot pan on the surface). Complete care instructions are included in your Owner's Guide. Touch-up of any marks that do occur is simple and easy.

Can I place hot pans / dishes on my concrete countertop?

We recommend that you DO NOT place hot things such as hot pots directly on any of the countertops we offer. Concrete is very heat resistant; however, this may damage or discolor the sealer. We recommend installing trivets next to the stove to place hot pots on.

Will concrete chip?

As with any countertop, sink, floor, tub or stone surface that is used on a day-to-day basis, there is always the possibility of chipping. Concrete is very easy to repair and we have a reputation for responding to our clients in a very timely manner.

Will my cabinets need to be reinforced?

Due to so many variations it is virtually impossible to know exactly how heavy your product will weigh. Typically, no special considerations are necessary for standard kitchen or bathroom vanity countertops. Front apron kitchen sinks, cantilevered slabs, bartops on knee walls and similar situations sometimes require brackets or other structural supports for the countertops. We can advise on design, loading and support requirements.

How are the countertops installed?

Concrete countertops are handled and installed just like granite. Seams are caulked with a color-matched acrylic caulk.

What kind of sinks can be used with concrete countertops?

NW Concrete Interiors’ countertops can accommodate all types of sinks including drop-in, undermount and apron front. The minimum lip of concrete around all sides of sinks is 3". Concrete can also accommodate drop-in cooktops. The minimum lip of concrete in the front of a cooktop is 3"; we recommend 3" for the back as well.

NW Concrete Interiors can make integral concrete sinks of almost any shape. Bathroom vanities are an excellent application of integral concrete sinks. Concrete vessel sinks are also possible, and concrete's versatility means that the sink can be any color and shape.

What about backsplashes?

Backsplashes are cast, finished separately and deck mounted after the countertops are installed. Backsplashes are nominally 1” thick and can be from 3” high to full height.

How do I care for my concrete countertop?

When we leave our shop your product has been sealed and waxed. All that is required ever so often (just like granite and other natural stone materials) is a light buff to even out the surface and maintain that brilliant look. Every few years we suggest you call for a light polish that will repair any scratches. We suggest that you stay away from any abrasive pads, soaps or cleaners. We recommend a non-abrasive, mild, ammonia-free soap for daily cleansing use. Taking care of concrete countertops is no more difficult than any other type of countertop!

How much do concrete counters cost?

Even though it is a completely custom material, concrete is competitive in price with standard countertop materials. The price is competitive with high-end granite, ranging from $75 to over $100 per sqft. We are happy to work with you and your designer to give you an estimate on your project, and we can help you with options to fit your budget.

What kind of warranty do you offer?

NW Concrete Interiors offers a One-Year Limited Warranty against manufacturing defect.