Concrete countertops are becoming increasingly popular. But is it really a good choice?
There are a lot of reasons concrete countertops are becoming popular. They are easy to DIY, and a lot less expensive. They are surprisingly adaptable to different designs other than the modern style they once solely belonged to…. We could go on I suppose. Point is though, concrete is no longer seem as the cold and bland surface it once was. It is now becoming a chic choice for many homeowners. But is it really the right choice? After all, granite is the leading countertop material for a reason.
Let’s get into the pros and cons of each of these materials so we can get a real comparison going, and you can decide for yourself which is better.
Concrete Countertops
Pros
As mentioned, you can DIY concrete countertops very easily, and it tends to be more affordable.
Concrete is no longer thought of as just modern. It is now rustic, chic, and really a blend of other styles that don’t really have a name. (That’s something we’re noticing too. Designs are breaking free from style labels and are now hard to classify when you see them. We’re okay with this 🙂 )
This presents a real opportunity because you can make use concrete for so many different styles and designs. It’s a material you can take in many directions.
Cons
The thing that has kept a lot of people from using concrete is the fact that it is a porous material. This means that it is far less durable than other materials like granite. It is also far more susceptible to staining.
You can’t place hot pots and pans on concrete. Even though it is heat resistant, hot items right out of the over or off the stove can be damaging to a concrete surface. It will in the very least stain it. Try not to use abrasive cleansers or place anything on concrete that might scratch it. Because it is not as hard of a material it has a higher likelihood of scratching, and the porous nature means you should clean it with sensitive cleansers.
Granite Countertops
Pros
Granite is the most popular material chosen for countertops because of their durability and natural beauty. They are made over time by heat and pressure, which makes them strong and able to withstand the high traffic of a kitchen. It can stand up to the wear and tear that other, softer, and more porous surfaces can’t. Even decades later, granite will still look the same, which means it holds it’s value.
Granite does not stain, weaken, or erode like cement does. Which means it is suitable for outdoor kitchens and surfaces that see a lot of light or water.
Granite is heat resistant and scratch resistant so you can place extremely hot items on the surface and it won’t cause any damage.
Cons
Cutting and installing granite is not something you can do on your own. It should be professionally done, which means no DIY option.
Granite does cost more than cement (though we know the great deals you can get with us, for a material that will last longer).
You shouldn’t use acidic cleansers on granite. Even though it is far less porous, acids can still seep in. Though this can be avoided with yearly sealing.
If you’d like to see our granite inventory, you can visit our website and look over what we have along with pictures and prices. You can also stop by our granite yard during our business hours without an appointment. Give us a call at: 877-789-0489, if you’d like to get a free estimate for your project.