Maier Precast
Frequent asked Questions . . .
Can hot cookware be placed on Concrete counters?
No, although concrete is heat-resistant it can still be subject to thermal shock if a red-hot object is placed directly on it.
The biggest concern with heat is that it can damage the protective sealant on the concrete leaving it vulnerable to
scratches and stains. Trivets can be integrated into a countertop to create a safe spot to put hot pots and pans.
No, although concrete is heat-resistant it can still be subject to thermal shock if a red-hot object is placed directly on it.
The biggest concern with heat is that it can damage the protective sealant on the concrete leaving it vulnerable to
scratches and stains. Trivets can be integrated into a countertop to create a safe spot to put hot pots and pans.
Remember that an ounce of protection leads to a pound of prevention.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. Maier Precast warrantees the structural integrity of the concrete for one year after installation. The countertops
will of course last a lot longer than a year, but if any problems were to occur, they would occur in the first year. We
subject the concrete to much larger stresses while handling it than clients ever could once it is installed. In addition, we
are always available for consultation.
Yes. Maier Precast warrantees the structural integrity of the concrete for one year after installation. The countertops
will of course last a lot longer than a year, but if any problems were to occur, they would occur in the first year. We
subject the concrete to much larger stresses while handling it than clients ever could once it is installed. In addition, we
are always available for consultation.
Who would want concrete countertops?
Concrete countertops are the most unique, personal countertop option because they are made from scratch for
each client. To determine whether concrete is right for you, think about whether you believe that:
* you want something unique and personalized
* you want something that looks natural and has character
* you appreciate high-quality, hand-crafted items
* you think granite is too shiny, too formal, too common
* you think synthetic solid surface materials look and feel like plastic
* you need a color or visual texture that's not available with other countertop materials
If so, concrete countertops may be right for you.
Concrete countertops are the most unique, personal countertop option because they are made from scratch for
each client. To determine whether concrete is right for you, think about whether you believe that:
* you want something unique and personalized
* you want something that looks natural and has character
* you appreciate high-quality, hand-crafted items
* you think granite is too shiny, too formal, too common
* you think synthetic solid surface materials look and feel like plastic
* you need a color or visual texture that's not available with other countertop materials
If so, concrete countertops may be right for you.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of concrete compared to other countertop materials?
Advantages:
- Custom: Concrete's biggest advantage is that it is completely custom. Concrete is 3 dimensional, integral sinks,
drain board, fiber obtic countertops, etc. Your concrete will be unique to you and highly personalized.
- Versatile: Concrete is extremely versatile. It can enhance any style, from French Country to Contemporary. From
Arts and Crafts to Industrial. From Traditional to Modern. The possibilities are endless.
- Practical: Maier Precast's sealer provides a surface that is extremely stain-resistant and low-maintenance. Common
food items will not stain it. The sealer does not degrade, and therefore does not need to be reapplied every year like
many other sealers.
- Imperfections: We believe that this is an advantage. Concrete countertops are hand made and hand finished.
Since concrete is a heterogeneous mixture of many different ingredients, subtle variations in color, shade, texture and
overall appearance should be expected. All concrete is susceptible to harmless hairline cracks. They will sometimes
appear months or years after installation, and are generally a result of seasonal movement of the cabinets and the
house itself. These should be considered part of the aesthetic charm of concrete, and not a defect. Concrete exhibits
natural beauty rather than plastic perfection.
Disadvantages:
- Scratching: While the sealer is very durable, it is possible to scratch it. For example, in kitchens, you should use
cutting boards on concrete countertops, just as you would with any other counter surface.
- Lead time: Concrete countertops take approximately 4-6 weeks to fabricate.
Advantages:
- Custom: Concrete's biggest advantage is that it is completely custom. Concrete is 3 dimensional, integral sinks,
drain board, fiber obtic countertops, etc. Your concrete will be unique to you and highly personalized.
- Versatile: Concrete is extremely versatile. It can enhance any style, from French Country to Contemporary. From
Arts and Crafts to Industrial. From Traditional to Modern. The possibilities are endless.
- Practical: Maier Precast's sealer provides a surface that is extremely stain-resistant and low-maintenance. Common
food items will not stain it. The sealer does not degrade, and therefore does not need to be reapplied every year like
many other sealers.
- Imperfections: We believe that this is an advantage. Concrete countertops are hand made and hand finished.
Since concrete is a heterogeneous mixture of many different ingredients, subtle variations in color, shade, texture and
overall appearance should be expected. All concrete is susceptible to harmless hairline cracks. They will sometimes
appear months or years after installation, and are generally a result of seasonal movement of the cabinets and the
house itself. These should be considered part of the aesthetic charm of concrete, and not a defect. Concrete exhibits
natural beauty rather than plastic perfection.
Disadvantages:
- Scratching: While the sealer is very durable, it is possible to scratch it. For example, in kitchens, you should use
cutting boards on concrete countertops, just as you would with any other counter surface.
- Lead time: Concrete countertops take approximately 4-6 weeks to fabricate.
What colors are available?
Any color! Maier Precast can develop thousands of colors. And, you can specify embedded stone, glass, or other
objects. You can specify the color, size and density of embedments. Coupled with the many color choices, you have
myriad design options.
Any color! Maier Precast can develop thousands of colors. And, you can specify embedded stone, glass, or other
objects. You can specify the color, size and density of embedments. Coupled with the many color choices, you have
myriad design options.
Can the concrete ever crack?
Yes, hairline cracks may appear but do not affect the structural integrity of the piece. Hairline cracks are an inherent
characteristic of concrete, and although they may be patched they are typically left visible since they lend character to
the look of the piece.
Yes, hairline cracks may appear but do not affect the structural integrity of the piece. Hairline cracks are an inherent
characteristic of concrete, and although they may be patched they are typically left visible since they lend character to
the look of the piece.
Can I cut directly on the counter?
No, like most counters cutting on the counter surface is not recommended as it will compromise the sealant and leave
the surface vulnerable to stains and scratches. Instead, use a cutting board or consider an integrated butchers block.
No, like most counters cutting on the counter surface is not recommended as it will compromise the sealant and leave
the surface vulnerable to stains and scratches. Instead, use a cutting board or consider an integrated butchers block.
Maier Precast 1905 Marketview Dr. Suite 316 Yorkville, IL 60560 Tel: 630-552-8753 Fax: 630-552-3110
Info@maierprecast.com - www.maierprecast.com
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Info@maierprecast.com - www.maierprecast.com
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
How does concrete compare to granite or marble in terms of cost?
Concrete is competitive in price with high end granite, marble, and other engineered materials. When designing your
piece Maier Precast is eager to work with you on customizing your piece without blowing your budget.
Concrete is competitive in price with high end granite, marble, and other engineered materials. When designing your
piece Maier Precast is eager to work with you on customizing your piece without blowing your budget.