The benefits of concrete countertops, on the other hand, are many. For instance, it can be filled with colored materials or decorative particles such as quartz or marble, giving the concrete the look of a number of different stones, like granite, for a fraction of the cost. It is inexpensive and incredibly durable, lasting for long periods of time with little upkeep. They aren't easily damaged from knives or dropped pots and pans, and they can be protected from stains with a simple sealing regimen.
Periodic sealing, maybe once every few years or so, will ensure your concrete countertops remain fresh and protected for the long haul. While the biggest threat to your concrete countertops would probably be acidic stains, like lemon juice, as well as other stains from tomato sauce or red wine. By choosing the proper sealer that will protect against heat, scratches, and other dangers, these stains will not seep into the concrete, instead sitting atop the material to be cleaned up at your leisure.
There is currently a debate in the concrete community of professionals about which sealing method is best for kitchen countertops. But ultimately it will come down to personal preference and the level of protection you are looking for.
For the best protection a concrete countertop coating is going to provide the ultimate performance. A concrete countertop coating will do just as its name implies, it will coat the concrete with a layer of sealant. The concrete coating is then taking all of the abuse of staining, spills and abrasions. The Polyaspartic 745 is one of the best and easiest concrete countertop coatings to use. Not only does it provide one of the most beautiful, high gloss finishes, but it is food safe and able to withstand harsh staining from acids like lemon and wine. Spills can be left on the surface for extended amounts of time without needing to be cleaned up and the concrete countertop will remain in tact. Concrete countertops treated with the Polyaspartic 745 can go a long time between retreatments; up to ten years depending on use and exposure!
Before using a concrete countertop coating you want to make sure the concrete countertop is not too smooth. There needs to be good surface porosity for the concrete countertop coating to adhere to in order to bond and not delaminate. This can be achieved by lightly sanding the countertop prior to sealing.
If you like the natural look of your concrete countertops a penetrating concrete countertop sealer is going to be your best option. Although penetrating concrete countertop sealers are not able to withstand long term staining like concrete countertop coatings, they still make spills easier to clean and protect the concrete from light staining. Countertop 880 is a natural finish, solvent-based countertop concrete sealer featuring an oleophobic additive that repels water and fluids, resisting staining, and eases clean up. Food-safe, this sealer protects countertops against water, fluids, staining, UV light exposure and the wear and tear of everyday use.
It is highly recommended that a Concrete Countertop Wax is used after sealing with the Countertop 880. Waxing concrete countertops maintains the concrete sealer, prevent stains, and keeps it looking beautiful. You can wax your concrete surface 24 hours after sealing.
We recommend waxing bi-weekly or monthly depending how much use the concrete countertop is exposed to. You can use a concrete countertop wax on high traffic areas more frequently if desired. Do not use citrus based cleaners on concrete countertops treated with a penetrating concrete countertop sealer or concrete countertop wax.
