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Print ArticleReinforcing. Reinforcement depends on the chosen style of casting. Wet casters will generally use rebar or 3- to 4-in. welded wire. Currently taking the concrete countertop world by storm is GFRC, or Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete. This proven construction technology looks to be a great boon for concrete countertops, allowing thinner pieces at greater dimensions.
Polishing. After casting, the top is allowed to set and reach the initial hardness required for polishing before being removed from the mold. Depending on your method of casting, this can take up to three days. Then, the amount of polishing depends on the look being sought. For this, a hand held wet polisher with a series of different diamond pads is suitable to achieve a number of looks depending on the aggregate in your mix.
Sealing. Each type of sealer for countertops has different characteristics, so a range of considerations, both functional and aesthetic, will determine your choice of sealer. In some cases, repeated light applications of a penetrating and a repellent sealer and then applying beeswax as a final coat can produce a deep stone looking finish. Other sealing applications use coatings that leave an overlay of material on the top and create a very different look and style.
If your customers are asking for concrete, don’t be afraid to give it a try! There are many simple ways to get involved with concrete countertops, and it’s easy to do with all of the resources and information available on the internet including a number of great products and training. Happy casting!
About The Author: Mark Gunther works for Buddy Rhodes Artisan Concrete (www.buddyrhodes.com). He can be reached at mark@buddyrhodes.com.
