Why Concrete Countertops are Better Than Granite |
Posted: September 30, 2018 |
Granite may have been considered the hit countertop choice of the century, but that is until concrete countertops came into play. If you aren’t yet aware of the benefits, look no further as we’ll go over all of them down below! On top of that, we’ll even outline how you can make your own, which, matter of fact, is one of the coolest advantages. Yes, you read that right: DIY concrete countertops. However, before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s first give you a bit of an overview. The Advantage of Concrete CountertopsWhen talking about the benefits of concrete countertops, one of the first things that need to be mentioned is the fact that it is a stain resistant countertop, unlike Granite. I feel like that’s one of the most important factors given the fact that it’s in the kitchen, which is where all of the biggest messes are typically made! Another useful factor, though, is how you can mold it into whatever shape you desire, that way you don’t have to stick with the typical boxy kitchen design. In addition, it’s resistant to heat, granted you don’t put wax on it, which is a totally optional step. It just depends on the look that you’re going for.
However, apart from all of its functional advantages, it also comes with so many other benefits such as the fact that you can color it an unlimited number of ways. This means that you’ll be able to create the countertop that fits your design the best instead of having to work the other way around; building the space around the way the countertop looks. In addition to the color, you also have an endless amount of edge detailing options and you can personalize it even more with both inserts and inlays. On top of that, concrete countertops are notorious for only getting better with age, which is definitely not something you can say about other types of countertops.
So, now that we know all that concrete countertops have to offer, it’s safe to say that we can move onto the next step- DIY concrete countertops.
DIY Concrete CountertopOn their own, concrete countertops cost less than getting Granite countertops installed. That being said, when it’s you who actually makes it, your price will get even lower. However, yet another way to ensure that you’re paying the best price out there is by shopping on our site, Concrete Countertop Solutions. Our online store boasts the highest quality materials and tools necessary for making your own concrete countertops with ease. The best part is that we offer competitive prices and many discounts on items. In other words, we strive to offer as many quality items as we can, on a simple-to-use site with prices that you won’t find anywhere else. On top of that, if you have any questions, we are merely one click or a call away to help you with whatever it is that you need. Now, without further ado, let’s get into making your own concrete countertops. Step 1
First things first, you’ll need to prepare your forms so that you’ll have somewhere to pour your mix. Our Z-Counterforms are the easiest to work with and they ensure that your corners are perfect without you having to break both an arm and a leg to do so. Once you’ve cut them and laid them out, screw them into the Durock. You’ll also need to install the Z Clips and the fiber mesh reinforcement, but it’s a very simple process that you will not regret having done in the future as it makes the countertop a whole lot more durable. It’s as simple as that. Now, you’re ready for the fun part. Step 2
Before you start pouring, be sure that you’ve covered all of the surrounding surfaces that way you don’t damage anything. Once everything’s protected, you can take your cement mix and gradually pour it into the bucket while you add water to it based on the instructions. You’ll also have to add in some Z Liqui-Crete mix to it that way it’ll flow through the mesh grid with ease. Once the mix is of the proper consistency, you’re ready to start pouring it into the forms. This part is very gradual but requires constant work until the entire form is filled in. Begin by pouring some on one end of the form and then take your trowel to spread it out. Continue doing so until you’ve filled up the entire form. Be sure that you’re taping the edges from time to time to make sure that your edges won’t have any air bubbles in them. As soon as your entire form is done, you’ll finally get a break to relax while it dries. Step 3
As soon as it’s completely dry, you can begin step three by simply snapping off the forms. If you’ve found some air bubbles or areas that need sanding, a great tool to use is our Gem Pad. As soon as your countertop is looking just as you’d like it to, you’re ready to move on to the final step. Step 4
All that’s left is to stain and seal your concrete countertop! You can use your Z Aqua-Tint in so many different ways in order to get the end goal that you’re trying to get. There are 15 various colors that you can choose from and you can mix and match them for the perfect color combination. As soon as you’ve made the color combination that you were looking for, all that you need to do is seal it so that it’ll stay protected. Our Z SiAcryl 14 is a great penetrating sealer that helps you create a nice luster finish with ease. However, if you’re looking for something with a shinier finish, add our Z Counter-Shine on top. This is also a great way to add extra protection to your concrete countertop. All that’s left is for you to let it dry and voila, you’ve got your very own durable and unique concrete countertop.
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