I had an idea I have not seen and would like some input from those in the know, especially the concrete guys.

I have read much about concrete countetops in kitchens and have been quite intrigued. I also really like the look of terrazzo (for those not knowing what terrazzo is, it is (in simlple terms) concrete that is ground down to show the aggregate, which is generally specifically chosen for its' appearance and color.

I do understand the process of installing terrazzo ( I work construction and have watched it installed and worked) and undertand the amount of labor involved but was wondering if it would provide a good or at least reasonable good counter top surface.

any downsides here?

 

Nap, the only downsides I can see is the unevenness of the surface, and the possibility of absorption. Would there be a way to make it waterproof and as smooth as normal countertop surfaces? If so, and you like the looks, it is a good, solid alternative. My step daughter's paternal grandfather was first generation Cuban, and installed aggregate floors. He did the one in the Tampa airport, and many residential floors in Florida. Great looks and superb wear factor. Very proud craftsman, and to this day, the floor in his own house has no cracks in it, anywhere. Sounds doable.

 

As chandler points out, the biggest problem can be the grout. Countertops can be messy places and standard grout gets lots of different stains. Grout seallers help but don't seem to last long with all the water and stuff, so a top that required a lot of work, can go from drop dead beautiful to a mess in a short time. One solution might be epoxy grout, but it is very difficult to use. It must be completely finished in the time specified, usually 20-30 min, or you are done. Once set up, there is no getting the residue off.

 

grout?

I'm talking about forming a one piece unit just as if one would be pouring a floor. Due to the limited size, I have to wonder if it would even need to be broken into sections as a floor is but even if I did need to, using brass divider strips would add a nice touch.

Now, uneveness; that is where the workmanship comes in. I was thinking of something like a mill rather than a hand unit for the larger flat area. I suppose a mill type setup could be used for the entire thing actually with radiused stones for the transition from flar to backsplash.

Hey, I just realized, I do electrical work for a company that makes granite (and other stone) counter tops with a real nice cnc machine to cut their tops and do edge grinding.


HHHmmmmm, he thought to himself. That sounds like a place that may be able to help.


If building totally in place, I am sure I could build a system to utilize a handheld machine on rails that would allow for a very flat surface.

On the other hand, sometimes that "handcrafted" look lends a nice touch as well.

as to sealing the stone; I suppose it would be similar to having a marble or granite counter top. They are both porous and need to be sealed as well.