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Q.
What are the advantages of concrete over marble and/ or
granite? How does concrete compare to these materials
in both cost (per square foot) and surface appearance?
A. Concrete is completely customizable in color, form,
texture, and finish. Because concrete is a handmade product
we have the creative freedom to cast it into any shape
and color imaginable. We can color, mold, inlay, and texture
to the client's desires. Cost will be based on the complexity
of the piece and design. All standard colors have no additional
cost. The cost of concrete per square foot is comparable
to high end granite.
Q. Can concrete be used as a cutting surface?
A. aci does not recommend cutting directly on the
concrete surface. Cutting the surface can damage the surface
finish (sealer). We recommend integrating cutting boards
into the piece for clients who may want the convenience
of a cutting surface. Incorporating wood with concrete
can also add a nice design element with contrasting materials.
Q. Can I put a hot pot directly onto my concrete countertop?
A. Although our sealer can hold up to a surface temperature
of 400° F. We highly recommend using trivets for hot cookware.
The trivets can be integrated into the piece and provide
a customized design element to the surface. Concrete,
as with granite and other stone, is subject to thermal
shock if a red hot object is placed directly to the surface
to cool.
Q. Are concrete countertops good for use in the outdoors?
A. Yes, concrete is a great choice for an outdoor
application. We use iron oxide based pigments which are
color fast; including reds, yellows, browns, oranges,
and blacks. The greens and blues are a bit sensitive to
UV rays and tend to dull or fade in direct sun.
Q. Do concrete counters stain?
A. aci uses different sealers for different applications/
finishes. For kitchen and bath countertops which have
heavy use we use a multi step sealing process which is
nearly 100% stain proof. For furniture pieces we use a
penetrating sealer which is also very stain resistant.
For maintenance refer to our care and maintenance sheet.
Q. Can concrete chip, crack or flake?
A. aci's special concrete mix highly reduces the likelihood
of chipping and/ or cracking. Corners and edges can chip
if struck by a hard object. As with stone products nothing
is impervious to chipping. Much of this will depend on
the care that is taken by the individual.
Q. How thick are the countertops?
A. aci's standard thickness is 2", although we can
pour thinner depending on the application. For back splashes
we pour from ¾" to 1". We can also create a false edge
from 3" to 16".
Q. Do I need to reinforce the supporting cabinetry
to accommodate for the weight of the concrete? Do I need
a sub-top?
A. Under most circumstances you will not need any
additional reinforcement in the cabinetry. Cabinets with
adjustable feet support such as IKEA may require additional
support. aci will not install, and does not take liability
for placement on any structurally unsound support. aci
recommends going over these details with your contractor
and/ or staff. aci does not require a sub-top for placement
on cabinetry. Our concrete surfaces are placed directly
to the cabinet's framework. aci countertops weigh 22.5
lbs pre square ft @ the standard 2" thickness.
Q. What kind of warranty do you provide for your concrete
countertops?
A. aci warrants its' pieces to be free of defects
in workmanship for 1 year from the date of purchase. Defects
in workmanship and materials are defined, for the purpose
of this warranty, as causing products to be unsound structurally
or mechanically, or altering the appearance of the piece
substantially. |
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