Caring for Concrete Kitchen Countertops

Concrete, tough and durable, is the hot new kitchen countertop material. Fabricated in just one to two weeks, this luxurious and completely customizable cluster surface enhances any design inspiration. As with other kitchen surface options, concrete requires a small amount of care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and beauty.

The concrete kitchen countertop is sealed to create an impervious surface that repels stains and is abrasion resistant. However, acidic liquids left on the surface for a long period of time may eat through the sealer. Thus, it is recommended to wipe up any spills as soon as possible.

Cutting directly on the concrete kitchen countertop is not recommended as it may damage the integrity of the sealer over time. An integral cutting board can be incorporated into the concrete, enhancing the functionality and uniqueness of the surface. Hot pans placed directly onto the surface are also a no-no. In this case, a trivet can be integrally placed in the concrete so the cook always has a place for hot pans to rest.

Cleaning a concrete kitchen counter is simple and inexpensive. Basic soap and water or a non-abrasive cleanser is the best option. To maintain the finish, waxing with beeswax every two months will protect the concrete.

Concrete countertop guru, Buddy Rhodes, said it best, "Concrete is high touch. Handmade and tactile … regular use imparts a warm patina to the surface over time."

Enjoy your concrete kitchen countertops! Revel in the fact that you have chosen a product which only gets better with age. Continued use, enhancing minority variations of texture and color, adds richness and depth to the concrete surface over the years.