Countertops
Grace McDonald
The key to a successful concrete countertop is a well-built mold to pour the concrete into. Melamine particleboard is also required when beginning the process of installation.
Concrete countertops can be created using either site-formed concrete or Precast concrete, but is most commonly installed via site-form installation due to the molding process.
Concrete tolerates climate-controlled environments as well as some temperature and humidity fluctuations. So, while concrete countertops are often the focal point of indoor kitchens, they’re equally at home out on a deck or patio.
Testing Organizations:
American Concrete Institute - https://www.concrete.org/certification.aspx
Certified Testing Labs - https://certifiedtestinglabs.com/
Concrete Construction - https://www.concreteconstruction.net/business/producers/concrete-testing-laboratories_o
Relevant standards through ASTM:
C1138M - Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Concrete
C1077-17 - Standard Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation
C1535 - Standard Practice for Application of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems
Use in Interior Setting
1. In order to create a darker bathroom that contrasts heavily with the rest of the light space, the designer implemented tinted green concrete sinks and countertops.
2. The slabs of the concrete countertop are supported by three concrete arches, which have been lined with oak to create open storage areas for pots and pans.
3. A wavy concrete countertop used as a product-testing area wraps around a structural column in the center of the shop.
4. This restaurant in Tokyo implements concrete into its surfaces to reflect the construction of the exterior.
5. Concrete countertops are used in this space for reception desks and bathrooms.
Sources
1. Knowles, E. & Miller, K. (2014) "A Comprehensive Guide for Selecting Interior Finishes."