Decorative Concrete Countertops for Home Remodeling


By Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight |
December 26, 2023

Concrete is one of the widely used materials for construction projects owing to its hydraulic nature and high compressive strength. While it has diverse uses, it is now becoming people’s favorite for countertops. You would think who would want a gray structured and coarse surface countertop? Our modern concrete artists have used their creativity and expert muscles to recreate the original and inspired counter look that is sure to add value to your interiors.

Christoper Lee

An Insight into Decorative Concrete Countertops

Home remodeling projects are all about quality, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetics. While granite, marble, soapstone, and quartz are valuable options for countertops these require a hefty budget. People with a low budget can opt for concrete countertops, and enjoy the same benefits. However, concrete is highly strong, durable, and multi-purpose. Arsight’s residential interior design services can help you create a picture-perfect look for your space. Experts can customize concrete countertops in different textures, colors, and finishes, which can be a perfect addition to your home or bathroom interiors.

How Much Concrete Countertops Cost?

If you are planning a kitchen or home remodeling project, you should keep in mind that the average cost of concrete counters ranges between 50 to 150 USD per sq.foot (including material cost and professional installation). However, if you want to make it a DIY project, then the material cost is almost 5 to 15 USD per sq. foot. Hiring an expert will make things more manageable, and the average cost of a 25 sq. feet countertop may range between 1250 to 3750 USD. For an exact cost, you must finalize these factors like size, edge profiles, depth, and texture and finish. Arsight can connect you to the best experts who will precisely match your budget and expectations.

How to Maintain Concrete Countertops?

If you are planning a kitchen or home remodeling project, you should keep in mind that the average cost of concrete counters ranges between 50 to 150 USD per sq.foot (including material cost and professional installation). However, if you want to make it a DIY project, then the material cost is almost 5 to 15 USD per sq. foot. Hiring an expert will make things more manageable, and the average cost of a 25 sq. feet countertop may range between 1250 to 3750 USD. For an exact cost, you must finalize these factors like size, edge profiles, depth, and texture and finish. Arsight can connect you to the best experts who will precisely match your budget and expectations. 

How to Maintain Concrete Countertops?

While you spend so much on home décor, you must invest in regular maintenance to keep your interiors beautiful and operational for years. If you plan to install concrete counters, you may follow these tips for proper maintenance: 

  • Use a penetrating concrete sealer that will help prevent stains on concrete surfaces 
  • Adopt a strict cleaning routine, and clean spills immediately with a cleaning solution
  • Harsh cleaners can damage the concrete countertops 
  • Protect counters from intense heat by using pads and coasters 
  • Instantly repair chips and cracks

Are There Any Design Options with Concrete Countertops?

People are falling in love with concrete countertops due to customization options. You can explore limitless design options:

Decorative Color Variety

Concrete countertop mix is available that helps you customize counters in an array of decorative colors. It can be tinted or stained to create your favorite looks.

Imprinted Textures

With concrete, you can create different imprinted textures that can be polished and honed for the most appealing interior look.

Edge Customization

Another great thing about concrete counters is that you can customize the edges in different shapes. Some options include curved, square, or beveled edges.

Different Patterns

To add more value to monochrome interiors, you can imprint the concrete with different geometric patterns, logos, or designs.

Shapes

With a concrete mixture, you can create flowing curves and other designs to create an exquisite interior.

Additions

While concrete gives a monochrome look to your interior, you can ornament it with tile, metal, or glass to create pretty patterns. And you can boast the most unique interior with concrete countertops.

Richard Barnes

What Are the Pros and Cons of Concrete Countertops?

Concrete counters feature the elegance and vividness of natural stone with greater durability. Pro installation and proper maintenance can make it last for a lifetime. However, you must evaluate the pros and cons of concrete countertops to make the best decision for your home remodeling project. 

Though, other material counters promise similar advantages, concrete counters are best for a smooth, stylish, durable, and distinct interior. But you may need an expert’s help for the best outcomes.

Richard Barnes

Pros of Concrete Countertops

Customization

One of the biggest benefits of opting for concrete countertops is the liberty of customization. A distinct and personalized design can make your interior one-of-a-kind.

Versatility

Concrete counters are highly versatile allowing you to experiment with any interior style ranging from traditional to contemporary. You can explore endless design possibilities with concrete counters.

Practicality

Concrete counters’ sealing is highly stain-resistant and requires low maintenance. You will not have to adopt a stringent cleaning routine and spills won’t stain the surface for 24 hours. Moreover, the sealing agent is heat-resistant and ideal for cooking purposes.

Cost-Effectiveness

Concrete counters are highly affordable and can promise the same looks and durability as expensive natural stones. So, it is ideal for people with low budgets who are unwilling to compromise on quality.

Highly Durable

Concrete is known for its unmatched strength. Concrete counters are extremely durable and will last for decades with the right maintenance.

Matthew Williams

Cons of Concrete Countertops

Porous Surface

Concrete counters have a porous surface and have to be covered with chemical sealants. Chemical sealants are harmful to health especially when they come in contact with heat. So, you will have to opt for food-grade sealers that might be costly. Also, only a regular cleaning routine can save the aesthetics of concrete counters.

Prone to Scratches

Though chemical sealants are durable, however, they are prone to scratches. Kitchen and bathroom counters are roughly used, so there are greater chances of scratching. For that, you may have to allocate a good repair and maintenance budget.

Time-Taking Installation

Concrete countertops are widely customized to create the most appealing looks, however, this process is time taking. Even if you hire an expert, proposing a customized design and implementing is not a quick task. So, you will have to be very patient when installing concrete countertops.

Takeaway

Concrete counters are ideal for industrial uses. However, the customization and cost-effectiveness have made it a preferred option for domestic uses. Concrete offers the same value as other expensive and luxury countertop material options. Though there are some downsides to installing concrete counters, still it’s a personal preference.

Artem Kropovinsky is an author, interior designer and the founder of Arsight, a globally award-winning design firm based in New York. With over decade of experience, Arsight specializes in complex projects, including new constructions, complete residential renovations, restaurants, and retail stores.