Frequently Asked Questions about Concrete Countertops

 

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Why choose concrete?

What sets concrete apart is the individuality of color, texture and bold appearance that are possible.

Where can concrete be used?

Concrete can be used anywhere that tile, solid surfacing, slate, granite or marble is used. For instance, Kitchen Island or perimeter countertops, Bath vanities or Desktops and Coffee table tops

What are the color options?

The color possibilities are endless. Shading differences may occur in concrete as they do in all natural materials. Keep in mind that color matching in concrete is not an exact science. Each and every concrete slab is unique and can vary slightly in tonality, color field and texture. This is the beauty of the concrete medium.

Are there custom color samples available ?

A set of three variations of a color (from a sample or by referencing  the Benjamin Moore Chart) Costs $150 This will be partially or fully credited toward your project. A sample of one of our in- stock colors is $25 and includes shipping. Also credited toward the work.


Click here to view our Concrete Colors


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How thick are concrete counter tops?

They are a minimum of 1/2” thick and can be any thickness up through 4” or 6 “.

What does a concrete counter top weigh?

A 1” thick concrete counter top weighs approximately 12 lbs. per square foot. Most factory made kitchen cabinets will support both concrete or granite without a problem. It's wise to check any special layout details with your kitchen designer or general contractor.

What is maximum overhang for a concrete counter top?

A 1½” counter top can be overhung about 12” without support. Larger and unbalanced overhangs are possible using external supports. We  use steel reinforcement bars in  tops according to your layout needs.

Do concrete counter tops crack?

No They will not and we warranty them not to. Hairlines or surface crazing may occur but are considered character features, just like veins in stone. They do not affect structural integrity. They are considered by the design trade as a desirable part of the charm of concrete.

Where do field joints occur?

Field joints are needed at strategic engineering points of stress. We use them less and less as our engineering grows more sophisticated. Field Joints may occur at the size limit for some long runs or angled corners. Fax us a drawing for consulting on your design needs. No attempt is made to hide or disguise these joints. Field joints should be unobtrusive but clearly part of the concrete design.

Will concrete counter tops stain?

No. Our tops are stain proof. They will not be stained by Wine, Teriyaki sauce, Alcohol, vinegar, Chlorox, or even fingernail polish remover. Our sealer coat is both in and on the surface. Because day to day use occurs on the sealer coat, rather than on the concrete itself, your countertop will give you years of trouble free service. We recommend a monthly application of Butchers Wax to enhance the seal and give a soft warm feel to the counter. Keeping the surface sealed is important to top performance and non-staining. It is good not to let spills linger overnight, however our finish is very hard and after a soak, most food or dried liquids will dissolve easily .Scrubbing your top with a 3M Scotchbrite pad will remove stubborn marks or shallow stains. This scrubbing pad will give the same luster that the top was delivered with.

Contact Brooks Custom for technical advice if you think the sealer has been damaged.




How do I clean my concrete counter tops?

Clean countertops with any non-abrasive household cleanser. Use a 3M Scotchbrite pad for scrubbing.

Can I cut on my concrete counter tops?

As with any countertop surface, cutting boards should  be used when chopping or preparing foods. Incidental food contact is not a problem.

Can I put hot pots on my concrete counter top?

Always use a hot plate or trivet when setting items from an oven out on the countertop. Although concrete itself is very heat resistant, the sealer can be damaged from prolonged exposure to very high temperatures such as a frying pan with hot oil.

What about sinks?

We currently offer custom concrete integral sinks in many shapes.

We can under mount or cut-in any sink you may provide. 


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What type of warranty do we offer?

Full One-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Technical support is provided for the life of the product.

How long from template until installation or shipping?

Two to four weeks.

We use modern concrete engineering for the fastest cure time in the industry.

How can I get pricing?

Pricing is done in writing only .Please send or fax us a plan drawing of your project. Include measurements and any details you may have. We’ll fax or e-mail you back, usually in 24 hours.

The price point is similar to medium - high end stone industry pricing.


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Concrete is an innovative change from the other traditional countertop materials.

Brooks Custom's  craftsmen create each job in our own shop.

All items of color and finish are under our control.

No Concrete countertop is released for installation before it is cured and inspected for finish quality.

You will be pleased with the results.

After viewing all existing lines of concrete counters we have selected what we consider to be the most desirable traits and qualities that concrete has to offer to the design trade.

You may send us templates or plans and specs to duplicate with precision.

We safely pack and ship throughout the world.

Countertop Comparison Chart

You may send us templates or plans and specs to duplicate with precision.

Our own craftsmen are available to template and install from Philadelphia to Boston