Size limitations and seams in concrete countertops

Concrete countertops are made of cement, lightweight aggregates, and other additives like acrylic, fiber reinforcement, and silica fume pozzolan. These components make them durable, low maintenance, and stain resistant—qualities that make them ideal for use as kitchen countertops. Concrete countertops are now a popular choice for homeowners, kitchen designers and professional builders. Due to their increasing popularity, concrete countertops are manufactured by many countertop fabricators throughout the country and the world. Concrete slabs are cast by hand, and each slab is unique. No two concrete slabs are the same. Concrete countertops can either be cast off-site or built within the confines of the kitchen.

The size limitations and seams are two of the important things you need to consider before buying a concrete countertop and having it installed in your kitchen.

Size limitations of concrete countertops

Concrete countertop contractors consider several factors including structural issues, handling, and shipping of the concrete countertop before they choose a size they could work with.

A standard concrete slab generally has a thickness of one and a half inches. Concrete slabs that are two inches thick are also common and available. The standard concrete countertop slab usually weighs about 18.75 pounds per square foot, weighing heavier than a granite slab that weighs approximately 18 pounds per square foot. Hence, a 10 square-foot concrete countertop can weighs nearly 200 pounds.

While heavy concrete slabs are common for kitchen countertop construction, the lightweight ones are also available and are just as durable as the heavier slabs. A standard cabinetry can usually support these concrete slabs since the total weight of the concrete countertop is evenly distributed over a large area.

Most concrete countertop contractors can make concrete countertops that are 10 feet long or have an area of 20 square feet. Concrete countertops in larger sizes are also available, but they usually require seams and are more expensive.

Seams of concrete countertops

Seams are essential for concrete countertop pieces that measure more than 10 feet in length or have an area 25 square feet. The seams in these concrete slabs measure approximately one-sixteenth to one-eighth of an inch wide. They are usually filled with colored resins that complement the color of the concrete countertop. The seams in concrete countertops look similar to those in granite or marble countertops. They are visible, but they do not show any aesthetic distraction.

More than to accommodate lifting and handling, the seams on concrete countertops serve as an element of design that provides beauty and enhancement to your kitchen top. Some concrete countertop brands offer filled joints with latex that match the color of the seams, while others use a clear sealer that is made of 100% silicon.