Who chooses concrete countertops?

Concrete countertops are one of the very few types of countertops that can be personalized and custom made for each client. Concrete is a composite of a cement binder and an aggregate and is normally used in buildings and construction. The types of concrete are regular concrete, self-compacting concrete, shotcrete, no-fines concrete, cellular concrete, roller-compacted concrete, and asphalt concrete. These types vary according to the kind materials used in each mix and how the concrete is placed.

Because they can be custom made, concrete countertops are popular among newly-married couples and do-it-yourself builders; professional construction firms; landscape architects and interior designers; and traditional homemakers. These people choose concrete countertops because they can be made in any color, style, and size to suit any type of home or building. These personalized options are normally limited or even unavailable in other countertop materials.

Newly-married couples choose concrete countertops

Newly-married couples choose concrete countertops because they are relatively inexpensive. Concrete is an abundant material and is common in most areas of the country. Unlike granite or soapstone, concrete does not need to be quarried, which reduces its cost. Basic concrete slabs are sold by the square foot and can cost as low as $65 or as high as $125. Their customization, like choosing a specific color, shape and thicknesses, can incur additional costs.

Architects and builders choose concrete countertops

Architects and builders choose concrete countertops because they are a good addition to any product line or building portfolio. Because concrete can be custom made, it allows architects and builders to showcase their talents in design and construction.

Traditional homemakers choose concrete countertops

Traditional homemakers who prefer old-style countertops choose concrete countertops because they come in neutral colors like gray, white, and sand. By nature, concrete is not a shiny material unlike the modern-looking countertops that traditional homemakers usually shy away from.

Things to consider when choosing concrete countertops

If you are deciding on what type of material to choose for your countertop, here are a few questions that you should ask yourself to help you make the right choice:

Do I want my countertop to look personalized and one-of-a-kind?

Concrete countertops are molded from scratch, and they allow the customers to decide just how they want their concrete countertop to look like. Factors like color, marbling, veining, size, thickness, and edge design can be altered, depending on your manufacturer or builder. Concrete comes in different colors and designs that can fit your home and make your countertop look like it was made just for you.

Do I want my countertop to look natural and traditional?

Concrete countertops come in neutral colors like sand, brown, and gray, depending on the concrete mixture used. Traditional homeowners choose concrete countertops because of these color choices and their overall natural look. Concrete countertops can also have veining and marbling effects that adds to their raw, unfinished look. Because concrete is not a naturally shiny material, concrete countertops also appeal to people who do not like their countertops to look too modern and impersonal.

Do I want my countertop to be durable and attractive, yet within my budget?

Basic concrete countertops are relatively cheaper than the synthetic countertops available. Concrete countertops are normally sold by the square foot and their price ranges from $65 to $125. However, their price can go higher depending on the additional features like color, custom shapes, and backsplashes.