Staining is the dirty little secret of concrete countertops. But Sonoma Cast Stone's NuCrete may solve the problem.
The specially formulated concrete carries a 30-year warranty against staining, scratching and structural cracking. Choose from 24 stock colors or spring for a custom color. Available for custom formed countertops, NuCrete also comes in tiles that can be installed by the homeowner.
Despite its problems -- staining and cracking top the list -- concrete has been a popular choice of architects and designers of high-end kitchens. Custom formed and colored, it made for a dramatic, one-of-a-kind countertop. Homeowners, left to deal with maintenance and staining, were often less enchanted.
Concrete is more expensive than granite, with a custom countertop starting at around $100 a square foot and as much as $180 a square foot.
Counter tiles are about half that price.
Tiles are finished on the surface and on all four sides. Standard-size 1-1/4"-thick tiles are countertop depth, 25-1/2", and 24" wide, so seams are minimized. Cuts can be made with a diamond blade or wet saw, standard items in many home workshops. Optional back and side splashes and three matching sinks are also available. The tiles can also be butted against other farm-style sinks.
Sonoma claims that even the biggest offenders -- limes, lemons, wine and oil -- won't stain NuCrete. The diamond-sanded, soft matte finish will remain the same, even in commercial applications, the company says. NuCrete is sealed and waxed. It needs to be re-waxed periodically, but never needs resealing. Concrete is heat impervious, but a hot pot placed directly on NuCrete can discolor the sealer.
Call the company directly for help with planning and estimating quantities of tiles needed.
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