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FAQs+Countertops

Can I have any size concrete worktop / countertop?

Because we pour our concrete countertops / worktops 'in-situ' there is no limit to the size, shape or design. We can also produce any size, shape or design seamlessly so that there are no unsightly joins.


Concrete is heavy so how can it be suitable for a concrete worktop / countertop?

A white+reid standard concrete countertop / worktop weighs approximately 125kg per m2 and a standard 'off the shelf' kitchen unit can easily take this load. We recommend that kitchen units are fixed to each other as well as the back wall. Island units can suffer from twisting so we advise that these designs are secured to the floor and further supported beneath the carcass.


How does white+reid make a concrete kitchen countertop?

At white+reid we pour our concrete countertops in-situ. This means we can make any shape, size or length without any joins. We do this by making a mould around your kitchen units then pour, finish and seal the countertop on site. Please contact us for more information and a copy of our Concrete Countertop information pack.


How involved can I get in the design of my polished concrete countertop / worktop?

As involved as you wish. We prefer to work closely with our clients to ensure we achieve their vision.


What choice of colours, finishes and edging does white+reid offer for concrete countertops / worktops?

We can produce a wide range of colours and tones to suit contact us for a colour chart. The pigments are derived from iron oxides so colours tend to be natural. We finish our surfaces by burnishing with steel so tonal changes reflect the process. We generally polish to a high lustre but we can finish concrete to different degrees of polish or aggregate exposure. If further polishing to a high sheen is specified then this can be achieved. Our standard front edge profile is a pencil edge, which can be seen in our gallery examples of polished concrete worktops / countertops.


Will my polished concrete worktop / countertop be waterpoof?

The penetrative sealer we use at white+reid is designed to allow the concrete to breathe. The polish that is subsequent applied provides waterproof properties. After sealing and polishing the concrete, it will be waterproof providing the surface remains undamaged. We recommend re-applying the sealer periodically depending on intensity of use.


Do I need to look after my white+reid countertop?

Concrete, like any natural stone or wooden countertop, requires looking after. Whilst we provide you with a fully sealed and waxed countertop that is resistant to staining, we do strongly advise that any wine or acid based liquids are wiped off the surface as soon as possible. It is also important not to clean the surface with aggressive cleaning products.


How should I clean my polished concrete worktop / countertop?

We recommend a non-bleach cleaning product with warm soapy water. Do not use solvents or corrosive cleaners and avoid abrasive products or pads as they could cause damage to the sealer we have applied as well as reduce the surface sheen. Diluted bleach will remove stains but the sealant should be re-applied to the area.


Can I prevent the polished concrete surface from staining?

Although we seal our polished concrete worktops / countertops to help prevent staining, it is important that any food or drink spillages are cleaned from the surface and not left for long periods. There may be some surface discolouration if the spillage is oil or acid based and not removed as soon as possible. Re-applying the polish regularly will also help prevent staining and help to keep it looking its best. We can advise on the the polish you need to best protect your polished concrete surface.


How can I remove stains if they occur?

white+reid can advise on stain removal (please contact us for further information). If required, concrete can also be stripped back to the bare material then cleaned, re-polished, sealed and waxed.


Does white+reid offer a maintenance programme?

We offer a maintenance programme for all of our polished concrete products. We can also advise our clients how they themselves can maintain their concrete surface.


How much does a white+reid concrete countertop / worktop cost?

We charge by the square metre for the concrete. As each concrete countertop / worktop is unique, we require a dimensioned plan and where you are located to give an accurate costing. As a rule of thumb, countertops are priced at £500 per linear metre. This price includes polishing and sealing. As the work is 'in-situ', there are no delivery or installation costs. There is also a 'former' set up fee to make the mould.