Somewhat new to the countertop scene is the concrete countertop. These are good for oddly shaped counters first and foremost because they are cast right in your kitchen. Talk about custom made! They are very unique and aesthetic and can also be tinted. There are treatments that can be used to help lessen the chances of staining (which doesn't happen often anyway). You can also combine concrete countertops with other materials that can make them very unique. Unfortunately because this is such a wonderful product, and it is cast right in your home, it is also one of the more expensive options for countertops.

Standard 1.5" concrete ranges in price from $65-$125 per square foot and that is without installation. It is not normally the concrete, which is costly but rather the artistic work that is put into the concrete. The cost also does not cover rounded edges, thicker concrete or backsplashes. Still, the results are truly beautiful. There is a lot of creativity that can go into a concrete countertop and many feel it is well worth the price.

You will need to keep in mind that not every countertop installer will be able to do concrete countertops. You must hire someone specifically trained to do the work. Many times an artist will work with certain concrete countertop installers and vendors and will be able to show you exactly what is possible. Concrete must be expertly installed also to prevent cracking or breaking. It is normally cast right in the kitchen but must be poured to specification to prevent future damage as well.

What is amazing is the smooth texture and appeal of the concrete countertops. If you have not seen one you are in for a surprise. They look wonderful and at first glance they don't look like concrete at all. You'll have to keep that in mind when you discover that installation for concrete countertops is about $50 per hour/per person. Those who think concrete will be an inexpensive alternative to other types of countertops learn very quickly that the opposite is true.

Even if you do not plan on getting a concrete countertop do yourself a favor and look at some of the beautiful work that has been done with them. It may be something you can plan for the future if you cannot do it now. Of course if you have the resources and the desire to have a concrete countertop then you should enjoy picking out your colors and all of the personalization that can go with it. Please keep in mind that it usually takes a special installer to do this job so there may not be as many around as there are for other types of countertops. Check references, ask to see previous work and then enjoy having your beautiful concrete countertops installed.

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