WHY IS CORE CONCRETE BETTER THAN OTHER CONCRETE?
Our proprietary mix is formulated specifically for use in countertops to create a smooth, refined finish with low luster and natural appearance. Ingredients include only select fine dry sand, highest quality cement, a minimal amount of water, and a mineral fiber additive that quadruples the strength of our concrete and then sealed with the only FDA approved sealant for any kitchen surface on the market. We don’t want to say it will never happen, but this has in our experience eliminated micro-cracks and waterproofing issues with our owners. The cost of our materials is higher than other concrete dealers, but we think the beauty, long life, and performance of core concrete makes all the difference.
No. Just No.
Core Concrete can customize any concrete color for you just like your local paint store and mix any paint color for you. The process is just the same. We order pigments and blend them together to achieve the exact color you are looking for. Red, Green, Purple, Pink, Pure White … or grey, we can make any color.
WHY IS A CORE CONCRETE DESIGN UNIQUE TO ONLY ME?
Every countertop, sink, bartop of any concrete design we create is always custom only to that owner. No two pieces could be alike. Aside from the custom design that we work with every owner to create; the mix and color of each concrete pour is unique and can’t be replicated. Our surfaces aren’t cut from stone or prefab, it is mixed, poured, swirled, finished just for you. Your Core design is our artwork.
IS CONCRETE JUST A FAD, WILL IT LAST?
The use of cement and concrete dates back to the beginning of our recorded history. The Egyptians, Greeks, Assyrians, and Romans used concrete to build structures that have remained to today.
Now used for roads, bridges and skyscrapers; cement and concrete is the most commonly used building material in the world. There are lots of different formulations of cement and concrete today that leads to a some confusion in the refined cement product we provide versus even do-it-yourselfers on youtube making concrete countertops, but Core Concrete’s proprietary formula and the process is not to be confused with other applications, similar concrete companies or amateurs.
The typical thinking is that modern lines have to be used in concrete design; this is just not true. Though modern lines and design are often requested, we can curve and bevel and create designs that appear to be carved or sculpted… which in fact they are carved into our molds before we cast your countertop or sink.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS?
All our surfaces are double or triple sealed. Once sealed, our surfaces require the same care and cleaning that any countertop surface should receive; but does not require any special treatment.
Will the color be what I expect?
Color selections for concrete surfaces may be made from samples and charts. Our color system produces reliable and repeatable integral and stain colors. Because each piece is hand crafted, slight variations in color and hue should be expected.
All systems colors are UV stable and will retain their beauty.
Can I customize the look?
Concrete surfaces offer a wide range of standard and premium base colors and stains, edge profiles, textures, and other attributes. The only limit to what can be created is your imagination. Custom, hand crafted, and organic surfaces are our specialty
How strong is the material?
Surfaces reach a compressive strength of 10,567 PSI and flexural strength of 1,464 PSI. Our GFRC mixes are nearly three times stronger than traditional concrete.
Are GFRC surfaces “Green”?
Our GFRC Systems contain a minimum of 35% recycled material. Each surface is made exactly to fit the project, reducing waste to near zero. The sealer is water-based with no harmful impact on the environment. Plus, when you decide to remodel, the material can be recycled rather than sent to a landfill. The use of our GFRC Systems helps qualify for several LEED Point categories.
Are the surfaces safe for food preparation?
Yes. All of our GFRC Systems pieces are finished with a water-based sealer to produce a non-porous surface that is safe for food. As on any countertop surface, you should use cutting boards and other measures to minimize damage to the surface and to protect your knives from dulling.
Our high strength GFRC mixes virtually eliminate all cracks and other defects that others try to call “normal features” in their surfaces. The extremely high compressive and flexural strength of the material give you additional assurance against movement that can result in cracks.
How do I clean the surface?
Clean your concrete surface with mild soap and water. You may also use common mild kitchen cleaners, but avoid using any abrasive cleaners as they may reduce the service life of the sealer. Never spill caustic chemicals on the surface.
Can I put a hot pot directly on the surface?
Yes and no. It is rare that typical cooking will result in a pot hot enough to damage the surface or sealer. However, we recommend that you use trivets and other measures to reduce the danger of scorching the sealer. Narrow surface areas are more susceptible to thermal shock, so reasonable care should be used in front of sinks and other such locations. Crock pots and similar appliances should not be placed directly on the surface.
Our GFRC surfaces are finished with a food safe, low voc sealer to produce a non-porous surface that virtually eliminates staining. As with any surface, any spills should be cleaned up promptly.
Can I use GFRC Systems outside?
Yes! All systems’ colors are UV stable and will retain their beauty in direct and indirect sun exposure. Concrete surfaces are perfect solutions for outdoor installations. Unlike all other solid surface alternatives, and most granites (which are resin impregnated), our GFRC surfaces will not fade or fall apart when used outside.
Will the installation be messy?
Our GFRC surfaces are made at Core Designs, not on site. We will measure and template your project and then return with the finished pieces. Unlike conventional concrete countertop creation, the dust and mess is kept away from the project area.
