Concrete worktops: pros and cons

Concrete worktops are long-lasting and versatile surfaces that offer a unique look that can complement a variety of design styles in any home or business. However, like any material, concrete worktops come with both pros and cons. Of course, here at Tinney & Co. we think the pros are incredibly convincing when it comes to choosing a material for your worktop, but it would be remiss of us not to give you the full picture, so you can make the best decision for your space.

Pros of concrete worktops

Durability

Concrete worktops are incredibly durable and can withstand most daily wear and tear. Unlike other materials such as wood or laminate, concrete worktops are relatively resistant to scratches, chips and dents. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades without needing to be replaced, making them a sound investment.

Customisation options

Unlike other worktop materials, concrete can be moulded and shaped to fit any space or design aesthetic. This means that bespoke concrete worktops can be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each individual home- or business-owner. From custom colours and textures to unique edge forms and decorative elements, bespoke concrete worktops can be truly one-of-a-kind.

Aesthetic appeal

Concrete has a natural and earthy feel that can enhance the look and feel of any space. Additionally, bespoke concrete worktops can be customised to fit any design aesthetic, from modern and minimalist to rustic and industrial. The addition of decorative elements such as embedded objects, stamped patterns, or custom colours can further enhance the visual appeal of bespoke concrete worktops.

Heat resistance

Concrete worktops that are sealed with a penetrating sealant are heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures without becoming damaged. This makes them a great choice for kitchen worktops, as homeowners can place hot pans or dishes on the surface without worrying about damage.

Ease of maintenance

Adding a sealant to a concrete worktop means it can become more resistant to water, stains and scratches. And they generally just need wiping down with soap and water (avoid any abrasive cleaning materials, as these risk scratching the sealant and so letting moisture into the concrete underneath.

Cons of concrete worktops

Concrete worktops have a lot going for them, but there are a few other things to consider.

Cost

Concrete worktops can be more expensive than other materials such as laminate or tile. This is due to the skilled process of creating a bespoke worktop and installing it. However, given the durable nature of the material, investing in a concrete worktop makes financial sense over the long term.

Weight

Not so much a con this one, more of a consideration. Concrete sits about in the middle of common materials used to fabricate worktops in terms of weight. As a general guide, concrete weighs approximately 150 pounds per cubic foot. However, a bespoke concrete specialist can employ various techniques to make a lighter worktop, such as the use of admixtures to trap more air in the concrete.

Some materials are heavier than this. Granite, for example, typically weighs around 170 pounds per cubic foot and marble comes in at around 160 pounds per cubic foot. In contrast, quartz is lighter than concrete, at an average of 120 pounds per cubic foot, while acrylic and polyester resins are lighter still, typically weighing around 90 pounds per cubic foot.

A bespoke concrete design specialist will take into account the weight of a proposed design, as well as the weight-bearing capabilities of the structures supporting your concrete worktop when designing your one-off piece.

Porosity

If not properly sealed, concrete worktops can be porous and susceptible to staining. This means that spills and liquids can seep into the surface and cause permanent damage. However, suitable sealing is all part of the process of constructing a bespoke concrete worktop with Tinney & Co.

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As with any decision about your home or business, it is important to get the whole picture, so you can make an informed choice. If you have any more questions about whether a concrete worktop is right for you, give us a call and one of the team will be more than happy to answer them for you.

Concrete furniture, fixtures and fittings: what can concrete be used for?

One of the greatest strengths of concrete as a design material – apart from its actual integral strength, of course – is its versatility. It means that it can be used to fabricate all manner of bespoke pieces for a home a business.

Let's take a look at just a few of the things that concrete can be used for in a residential or commercial space.

Concrete furniture

Firstly, let's talk about furniture. Concrete has a unique and modern aesthetic that is perfect for creating statement pieces of furniture. Concrete tables, for example, are a popular choice for outdoor dining areas as they are weather-resistant and can withstand the elements. Concrete benches and chairs are also a great option for outdoor spaces as they are sturdy and durable, making them a great investment for use on patios or in courtyards.

In addition to outdoor furniture, concrete is also being used in the creation of bespoke indoor furniture. Concrete coffee tables and side tables are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes due to their unique and stylish designs. Concrete dining tables and benches are also a popular choice, as they are perfect for creating a contemporary dining area. With concrete, the design possibilities are endless, and it is easy to create bespoke pieces that are tailored to your individual needs.

Concrete fixtures and fittings

Concrete is a great choice for creating statement pieces in bathrooms and kitchens. Concrete sinks are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability, easy maintenance and ability to cohere with a variety of interior design styles, from a stripped back industrial aesthetic to a more rustic feel. Concrete bathtubs and shower trays are also great options for creating a unique feature – perfect for those who want to make a statement.

Concrete countertops are another popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. They are strong and durable, making them a great option for high-traffic areas. Concrete countertops can also be customised with a variety of colours and finishes, allowing you to create a unique and personalised look in your home. Working with a bespoke concrete design specialist ensures you get the one-off piece that fits your space and your aesthetic.

In addition to sinks, bathtubs and countertops, concrete can also be used to create other fixtures and fittings in the home. Concrete light fixtures, for example, are a great way to add a modern touch to any room.

Concrete design features

Concrete is not limited to just furniture, fixtures and fittings; it can also be used for home decor elements such as hearths and design walls. Concrete hearths are a popular choice for fireplaces, as they are strong and heat-resistant. They also provide a modern and sleek look that complements the warmth and comfort of a fireplace. Concrete hearths can be customised with different finishes and colours to match any home's interior design. Concrete design walls can be used as an accent wall or a statement piece in any room of your home or business. With its ability to be moulded and shaped into different patterns and designs, concrete offers endless design possibilities for your feature wall.

You don't always have to go large when it comes to incorporating the unique aesthetic appeal of concrete into your space. It's that versatile a material that it can be used to fabricate almost anything. Why not consider a concrete cabinet for your TV or hi-fi speakers? Or even a sticky tape dispenser? Just ask, and chances are one of the Tinney & Co. specialists will be able to create a design for virtually any kind of bespoke concrete item.

Concrete features outdoors

Concrete can also be used to create a variety of fixtures and fittings in outdoor spaces. Concrete walls, for example, are a great way to create barriers and divide space in and around gardens. Concrete garden benches are popular, as they are durable, weather-resistant and low maintenance.

For similar reasons, concrete makes a great material for plant pots, and they can be fabricated in almost any size, depending on the where they will be located and the plants you want to put in them.

As you can see, the possibilities with concrete design are endless. Get in touch today to discuss your ideas.

Concrete design wall: rethinking interiors

With its durability and versatility, concrete has become a popular material for creating modern and contemporary design elements, including walls. Concrete design walls are an increasingly popular choice for home- and business-owners looking to add a unique touch to their space.

In this blog post, let's explore the different aspects of concrete design walls, including:

• how concrete design walls are made

• reasons why you would have a concrete design wall

• what spaces concrete design walls suit

• customisation options

How concrete design walls are made

Firstly, let's talk about how we go about making a concrete design wall. A concrete design wall is an addition to the structural walls in your home or business. It “sits” over a wall surface to add a unique design element to your space. As such, the design wall is fabricated and then installed (rather than being Incorporated into the actual construction of a building).

To create a concrete design wall, a mould is created in the desired shape and size of the wall. This will have been determined through close collaboration between you and your bespoke concrete designer. The concrete is then poured into the mould and left to cure until it is dry and solid. Once the concrete has cured, the mould is removed, and the concrete wall is finished with a sealant or other desired finish.

Reasons why you would have a concrete design wall

So, why should you consider a concrete design wall? Firstly, concrete walls are durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment. They are very resistant to scratches, dents, and other forms of damage, making them a low-maintenance option for any space. Additionally, concrete walls provide a unique aesthetic for any space. They can be moulded and shaped into different patterns and designs, making it a versatile material for creating unique and artistic walls. Concrete walls can be customised to fit your style,

What spaces concrete design walls suit

In terms of spaces where concrete design walls suit, they are a great option for both residential and commercial spaces. Their versatility and the fact that they can be fabricated into unique shapes and personalised with different finishes and edge forms, means that they can seamlessly integrate into almost any space. In homes, concrete walls can be used as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point and adding visual interest to the space. Concrete design walls are also a popular choice for bathrooms, as they are moisture-resistant and provide a modern and sleek look. In commercial spaces, concrete walls can be used in retail stores or restaurants to create a design that sets the space apart from competitors.

Customisation options

When it comes to customisation options for concrete design walls, the possibilities are pretty much endless. Concrete design walls can be stamped or engraved with different patterns or designs. They can also be textured, such as to make a concrete wall looks like stone. Additionally, concrete walls can be painted or stained in a variety of colours and finishes, allowing them to match any design or colour scheme you have in your space.

Our team of bespoke concrete design specialists are ready to work with you to create the right concrete design wall for your space, whatever that may be. Drop us a line today.

How concrete countertops are made

Concrete countertops are an increasingly popular choice in modern kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, versatility and unique aesthetic characteristics. The process of making concrete countertops is similar to making traditional concrete – like that for buildings and roads - but with some important differences that refine it into the most suitable material for the countertop. .

Let's take a look at some of the steps that go into manufacturing a concrete countertop.

Step 1: Design and preparation

The first step in making a concrete countertop is to determine the design and dimensions of the countertop. This is where you work closely with a bespoke concrete design specialist to combine ideas and expertise to create the blueprint for a piece that works for your space and your aesthetic sensibilities. So, whether you have a rustic-style kitchen, a sleek, modern restaurant space, or a bathroom with clean lines and contrasting colours, you'll be able to collaborate with the specialist to determine just the right one-off piece for your space.

The specialist will also prepare the space for the installation of the piece, checking the dimensions and ensuring all the necessary safety precautions are in place, as well as analysing the fixtures in the room to ensure that the countertop can be supported.

Step 2: Mix the concrete

The next step is to mix the concrete – either by hand or in a cement mixer. The concrete used for countertops includes similar materials to more industrial concrete, namely cement, aggregates, water and any desired admixtures. The combination of these components results in a material that is strong, durable, and versatile.

Cement is the glue that holds concrete together. It is a fine powder made from a combination of limestone, clay, and other materials. When cement is mixed with water, it forms a paste that binds the aggregates (sand, gravel, or crushed stone) together to create concrete. The chemical reaction between cement and water is called hydration, and it produces a substance called calcium silicate hydrate (CSH). CSH is the primary component that gives concrete its strength and durability.

Aggregates provide the bulk and texture of the material, and they play an important role in the overall strength and durability of the concrete. Aggregates can be made from a variety of materials, including sand, gravel, crushed stone, and recycled concrete. The size and shape of the aggregates can also vary, depending on the specific application of the concrete. The aggregates for concrete countertops are typically finer than those used for construction concrete.

Water is necessary for the hydration of the cement, and also helps to create a workable and easy-to-pour mixture. The amount of water used in a concrete mix is crucial, as too much or too little can have a significant impact on the final product. A mix with too much water may result in weaker concrete, while a mix with too little water may be difficult to pour and work with.

Admixtures are the final component of concrete. These are optional additives that can be used to modify the properties of the concrete. For example, admixtures can be used to increase or decrease the setting time of the concrete, improve its workability, or increase its resistance to freezing and thawing. Some common admixtures include air-entraining agents and water-reducing agents.

Step 3: Pour and cure the concrete

Once the concrete mixture is ready, it is poured into the mould that has been created by the bespoke concrete specialist. The mould is typically made from a material such as melamine, which is smooth and non-porous, to create a smooth finish. The concrete is then allowed to cure for several days. The pouring and casting may be done on-site or in the designer's workshop and the countertop transported to the site prior to installation.

Step 4: Polish and finish the countertop

Once the concrete has cured, the mould is removed, and the countertop is polished and finished. The surface of the countertop is first ground to remove any imperfections or rough spots. The countertop can then be polished using progressively finer grits of polishing pads, resulting in a smooth and glossy finish. Finally, the countertop can be sealed to protect it from stains and to give it a finished look.

Step 5: Installation

The final step in making a concrete countertop is to install it in the desired location. This involves ensuring that the countertop is level and secured to the cabinetry or supporting structure. Once installed, the countertop is ready to be used and enjoyed.

For bespoke concrete countertops, additional steps may be added to achieve a unique and customised look. These can include incorporating decorative elements such as embedded objects, stamped patterns, or custom colours. The process of adding decorative elements can be done during the casting phase, where objects or stamps are added to the mould before pouring the concrete. Custom colours can be achieved by adding pigments to the concrete mixture or by applying a stain or dye to the finished countertop. Additionally, concrete countertop edge forms can be added. These edge treatments can be achieved by using specialised tools to shape and finish the edges of the countertop. With these additional steps, bespoke concrete countertops can be truly unique and tailored to fit any design aesthetic.

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Call us today to discuss your ideas for a personalised, bespoke concrete countertop.

Concrete tables: an elegant choice

Concrete tables are becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial spaces. That's because they are durable, versatile and elegant. A concrete table is a unique choice that can add character to any room. Here are some reasons why concrete tables are an elegant choice.

Durability

One of the most significant benefits of concrete tables is their durability. Concrete is a strong and sturdy material that can withstand heavy use, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like dining rooms, living rooms and outdoor spaces. This durability also means that concrete tables don't need to be replaced frequently, reducing the amount of waste generated.

Versatility

Another reason why concrete tables are an good choice is their versatility. Concrete can be moulded into any shape or size, making it an ideal material for creating unique and customisable one-off pieces. With a bespoke concrete design, no two pieces are the same, so your table can be as unique as you are. A concrete tables also be coloured, stained or polished to match any decor style, and can be paired with different materials such as metal, wood or glass to create an appealing contrast and add visual interest to a room.

What's more, concrete tables are versatile enough to be used both indoors and outdoors. Because of their durable and weather-resistant nature, they are perfect for outdoor use, whether on a patio or a garden. Concrete tables can withstand extreme temperatures, rain, and sunlight without showing signs of wear and tear, making them an ideal choice for those who want outdoor furniture that will last for years. At the same time, concrete tables are also an excellent choice for indoor use. Their unique aesthetic can add character and warmth to a room, whether in a dining room, living room, or even in a bedroom. Concrete tables can also be customised to fit the size and shape of any room.

Ease of maintenance

Concrete tables are low maintenance. Unlike wood tables that require regular polishing or waxing, concrete tables only require a simple cleaning with soap and water. Because of their low-maintenance nature, concrete tables are perfect for busy households or commercial spaces where time and resources are limited.

Unique aesthetic

Concrete tables have a unique aesthetic that adds character to any room. The natural texture of concrete adds a tactile element to a space that is not found with other materials. And with bespoke concrete design you can get the feel that works best for your space and your aesthetic sensibilities.

A concrete table could look discreet or imposing. You could incorporate seats into the moulded design or contrast the concrete table with soft furnishings. It can industrial, rustic or modern looking. The possibilities really are endless.

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A concrete table will add a unique touch to any space. And they are an investment in a personalised piece of furniture that will last for years to come. Drop us a line today to start the process of producing your perfect concrete table.

How long do concrete countertops last?

Concrete countertops have become a popular choice in recent years for home- and business-owners looking to add a touch of uniqueness and modernity to their kitchens or bathrooms. They offer a range of benefits, including durability, versatility and the ability to customise the design to fit any home décor style. However, one question that comes up frequently is, "how long do concrete countertops last?" So, let's take a look at the factors that affect the lifespan of concrete countertops.

Concrete countertops: the basics

First, let's take a look at the basics of concrete countertops. Concrete countertops are made from a mix of cement, water, and aggregates like sand, gravel, or crushed stone. The mixture is poured into a mould, which can be customised to any shape or size, and then allowed to cure for several days. Once the concrete has cured, it is polished and sealed to give it a smooth, glossy finish.

Factors affecting concrete longevity

Now, let's get back to the question at hand: how long do concrete countertops last? The answer is, it depends. The lifespan of a concrete countertop can be affected by several factors, including:

• the quality of the materials used

• the sealant

• how well the countertop is maintained

Quality of materials

One of the most critical factors in determining the lifespan of a concrete countertop is the quality of the materials used. The concrete mix used should be of highest quality, with the right combination of cement, water and aggregates – we call this a “Mixture Clever”. If high-quality materials are used, a concrete countertop can last for decades without any significant issues. At Tinney & Co. we source the very best materials for our concrete mix, to ensure the durability and strength of your countertop.

Sealant

A high-quality sealant that is correctly applied is essential for the longevity of your bespoke concrete piece. A good sealant protects the countertop from staining and water damage. Our concrete craftspeople are highly skilled in all aspects of finishing, so you can rest assured that your concrete countertop will be impervious to damage.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is also crucial in extending the lifespan of a concrete countertop. Concrete countertops should be cleaned regularly with mild soap and water and dried thoroughly after each use. Harsh chemicals should be avoided as they can damage the sealer and the surface of the countertop. If a spill does occur, it should be removed as soon as possible to prevent it from setting into the surface of the concrete. Advice and guidance on the best techniques to keep your concrete countertop in the best conditions comes as standard at Tinney & Co.

A durable, long-lasting option

So, how long can a well-maintained concrete countertop last? Well, with good materials as well as proper installation and maintenance, a concrete countertop can last for up to 30 years or more.

It is also worth noting that concrete countertops can be repaired if they do sustain damage. The surface can be resealed to prevent further damage.

Thinking a long-lasting concrete countertop might be right for you? Drop us a line and let's talk.

5 things a bespoke concrete specialist will consider in your design

You're interested in incorporating a concrete feature into your home or business. Great. It could be a concrete countertop, a sink, a design wall, a hearth. Almost anything, really. That initial idea to incorporate the unique aesthetics of concrete into your home or business is the perfect time to start the collaboration with a bespoke concrete specialist. Bringing your ideas and their experience together will create the perfect one-off piece for your space.

When the specialists at Tinney & Co. start work on a project, there are lots of different aspects we consider that feed into the design and, ultimately, the end result. Each are calibrated against the others, so that all angles of the project are analysed – including some you may not have thought of – and the process is as smooth as possible from design to installation.

Let's take a look at a few of the things a concrete design specialist will consider.

1. Design and functionality

The first thing that a bespoke concrete specialist will consider is the design and functionality of the structure. What is its purpose? What do you want it to serve as? They will work closely with the client to understand their vision for the piece. That can include everything from the form to make it easy to use, to the relative prominence the piece has in the space.

The specialist will also consider the location of the structure, its purpose of the structure, and any specific design requirements. For example, if the client wants a concrete staircase, the specialist will consider the dimensions, the shape and the location of the staircase to ensure that it meets the client's needs – both aesthetic and physical.

A bespoke concrete specialist will also consider if the piece needs any special features based on its function. For example, if the structure needs to be fire-resistant or waterproof, the specialist will use dedicated materials and techniques to ensure that the structure meets these requirements.

2. Concrete mix

The second thing that a bespoke concrete specialist will consider is the concrete mix needed to meet the requirements of the design. You can think of the concrete mix as the recipe for the concrete, and the ingredients have to be right to ensure a pleasing, long-lasting piece. The concrete mix will depend on the type of structure being built, its location and the specific requirements of the client.

One of the key factors influencing the concrete mix is the required strength and durability of the concrete. For example, if the structure will be exposed to high traffic or weather, the specialist will use a mix design that adds more durability to counteract it.

3. Formwork and reinforcement

The third thing that a bespoke concrete specialist will consider is the formwork and reinforcement. Formwork is the temporary structure that is used to support the concrete during the pouring and curing process. Reinforcement is the steel bars, mesh or glass fibres that are added to the concrete to give it additional strength (which are not used in all bespoke concrete designs, but can be deployed when necessary).

For example, if the structure has complex curves or angles, the specialist will use flexible formwork to create the desired shape. They will also work out the ideal size and spacing of the reinforcement to ensure that the concrete is strong and durable.

4. Curing and finishing

Curing is the process of keeping the concrete moist and at the correct temperature to ensure that it sets and hardens properly. Finishing is the process of smoothing and shaping the surface of the concrete.

The specialist will consider the type of curing and finishing that is needed for the specific structure. For example, if the structure is exposed to the elements, the specialist will use a curing compound to protect the concrete from moisture and temperature changes. They will also consider the desired finish of the concrete, whether it is a smooth, polished surface or a more textured surface. This is where collaboration comes in, as your aesthetic preferences can feed into the finishing stage, so you get the look you want.

5. Installation

Last but not least, a bespoke concrete specialist will consider how best to install the piece. This includes planning for the logistics of the project, such as how the concrete will be transported, as well as ensuring that the site is prepared and ready for construction.

The specialist will also consider the safety of the installation process, including ensuring that workers are properly trained and equipped to work with the concrete, and that all safety regulations and guidelines are followed.

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Designing and creating a piece of bespoke concrete design is a complex process that requires specialist expertise – to ensure that your piece is functional, safe, long-lasting, and in tune with your style.

Get in touch and let's collaborate.