Common Concrete Misconceptions

Name: Common Concrete Misconceptions
Rating: 5

Is concrete heavy?

Hard Topix uses a lightweight, high strength glass fiber reinforced concrete mix as opposed to standard driveway concrete. Our specialized concrete mix weighs approximately 10lbs per square foot at 1” thickness which is lighter than most granite, stone or quartz. Most standard cabinets will handle the weight with no issues.

Does concrete crack?

It is possible to get a hairline fracture or crack in the concrete. Overall, our concrete countertops do not fracture over time but we never say never as a small hairline fracture could happen for a variety of reasons. This is especially true for outdoor conditions. Concrete around fireplaces are also more susceptible to fracturing especially in the winder with wide temperature extremes. Hard Topix uses a high quality, high performance concrete mix design that greatly reduces the chance of fracturing. Keep in mind that should a hairline fracture occur, the concrete can be repaired and resealed if necessary to ensure continued performance. Hard Topix does not guarantee that hairline fractures will not occur.

Is concrete porous?

Yes, you may read this online and often times when a DIY guy or HGTV does a concrete countertop they neglect a very important step in the process, which is filling in any pinholes or air pocket voids that could occur in the casting process. Part of our process is to fill any natural porosity with a concrete slurry prior to sealing so by the time the counter is sealed it is virtually non-porous.

Does concrete require maintenance?

Our concrete is sealed with the best sealers the industry has to offer. Cleaning the concrete is easy, simply use a nonabrasive, neutral cleaner such as regular soap and water to clean the tops. As with most countertops, we recommend basic kitchen etiquette of using a cutting board for slicing and chopping as well as hot pads or trivets for hot pans directly from the stove or oven. Cutting and heat won’t hurt the concrete but it could damage or discolor the sealer. See our care sheet for more info.

Is concrete only for modern homes?

While concrete goes exceptionally well with modern designs, concrete is an artform and custom made. We handcraft all of our custom pieces in the perfect color and finish so it can fit any design style…not just modern. Check out our photo gallery to see all the different styles and applications concrete can be custom made for.

Hard Topix is the absolute "GO-TO" place for the best in beautiful concrete products. The ideas, and product they come up with is nothing short of incredible. My biz with them is for fireplaces and firepits. They continue to impress me every time with the amazing things they can do, with concrete. David, Drew, and Jeni can dream up and produce just about anything. I highly recommend them for your next fireplace surround or mantle, firepit structure, wall, counter, sink, hearth, mudroom seating and more!

Mike S.
When determining what counters to choose for our Parade of Homes house, there were several options and companies to choose from. One company truly stood out to my wife and I for their keen eye of design, knowledge of their product, customer service and the unlimited array of timeless styles. Choosing the correct quality counter top is what helped make our kitchen stand out above the rest. If this is what you desire, then Hard Topix concrete counter tops is the only place you need to visit.

Eric I.
The team at Hard Topix was able to take our vision and deliver a beautiful vanity top.

Sarah B.
Easy to work with and very accommodating to our special needs.

Mark T.
Hardtopix is so much more than a concrete company. Drew B. provided us with a intelligent solution for our recent remodel. Living along the Grand River we wanted tops with local flare, together with there team, he was able to incorporate a natural aggregate stream into our countertops. Then they worked with a local Artprize artist to sculpt and scale a vanity sink from a small unique shaped rock Hardtopix founder David E. had found along Lake Michigan shoreline. Going the extra mile is an understatement these guys go the FULL distance! Thank you Hardtopix you Rock literally!

J. ..