Concrete bathroom countertops are fast becoming one of the most unique and sexy materials available today for bathrooms and with concrete countertops,you can let your imagination run wild so long as you have the budget to do so!
Concrete countertops are made from cement, color pigments, acrylics & fillers which are poured over and into a type of form made from either, steel bars, mesh fiber or fiberglass to help reinforce the concrete when it cures. Once dried they are sealed using epoxy which helps the concrete remain very strong and also keeps moisture from entering the surface. The result is a beautiful, unique piece of bathroom furniture that can really add some star power to your renovation.
The Cost of Concrete Bathroom Countertops
Of course if you want to use concrete as a bathroom counter top you do need to budget for it. A simple bathroom counter top design could set you back $70-$90 a sq ft, however if you want to go big and lavish, such as a custom built concrete countertop design, fabricated on site can cost upwards of $180 – $250 a sq ft. Not the most cost effective option of course but well worth it!
Concrete Countertops Design and Color
Concrete countertops are mixed from scratch with color pigments and/or acrylics essentially allowing you to create anything your heart desires. Keep in mind that pigments used in concrete will fade over time. This ageing process is a common characteristic of most concrete countertops.
Since most concrete bathroom countertops are custom built, they can then be made in a variety of shapes and/or forms. You can also find them pre-fabricated but most need to be poured on site to work with your needs and designs. Because they are so versatile, concrete countertops can be designed to have inlaid sinks, drains and trivets built directly into them, this is a great option if you really want to have a fully customized bathroom surface.
Many concrete countertops are mixed with aggregates, glass or marble to create a “Terrazzo” effect. This is where small pieces of stone or glass are set into the concrete and highly polished. This technique reflects light beautifully and will give your bathroom countertop a beautiful, reflective design and appearance. Using this technique with a beautiful stained glass vessel sink or basin will create a dazzling effect for your wash station.
How Durable are Concrete Countertops?
Concrete is naturally porous and needs to be sealed with an epoxy or a sealant. This is done during construction so hopefully it is not for you to worry about. Do make sure that you treat your countertops every 6 to 9 months with a liquid wax to extend the life of your surface.
Concrete is affected by heat so use a be careful with hair curlers, blow dryers and curling irons .Concrete will also start to age and crack over time; this is a character builder for the surface but beware of large fissures or movement to prevent further damage to your counters.
Construction & Installation of Concrete Bathroom Countertops
Concrete countertops are manufactured two ways. Either by pre-casting the concrete slabs at the manufacturer or on site by the installer themselves. Below is a brief description of both processes.
pre-cast concrete countertops
the manufacturer will pour the slab, mix the pigment and aggregates, cure the concrete and polish and seal all in their shop. This technique allows for a more controlled environment for the countertop to be built
On site construction
This is where the concrete is mixed, poured and shaped on site. This process allows the builder to customize according to the needs of the job. Unusual corners, rounded edges and such are easier to build on site and will lend to the uniqueness of your product.
Environment & Health impact of concrete bathroom countertops
Concrete countertops can be a viable ecological choice only if its properties include a majority of recycled aggregates such as post consumer glass, stone or “fly-ash”. Their content can range from 80% to 95% recycled materials. Counter Productions LLC. manufactures a great product called “Vetrazzo” you can see visit them at www.counterproduction.com or visit www.greenhomeguide.com to learn more.
Learn more information regarding the environmental impact of concrete in home construction
thesexybathroom opinion
The look of polished concrete or a beautiful terrazzo designed countertop will create a classy and unique countertop piece to any sexy bathroom. With its array of color, texture, and construction options, concrete is a very sexy alternative for your bathroom countertops. Give this product a try if you are tired of the ordinary and ready to walk on the wild side. Spills and stains need to be dealt with immediately to prevent long term staining but the use of proper sealers and maintenance will help preserve the life of your customized countertop
