Q: Do you provide a warranty for your concrete products?
A: CCD warrants its creations to be free of defects in workmanship for three years from the date of purchase. Defects in workmanship and materials are defined, for the purpose of this warranty, as causing the product to be unsound structurally or mechanically. We are committed to providing our customers with 100% satisfaction in their experience with us.
Q: What is your 100% customer satisfaction policy?
A: We feel that the best way to build repeat business and a long lasting relationships with our customers is by treating them right and giving them the highest quality customer service. Our goal each and every time is to provide our clients with satisfaction through unparalleled attention, craftsmanship, and quality to each project, large or small.
Q: What are the advantages of concrete over marble and/or granite and how does concrete compare to granite in terms of both cost (per square foot) and texture?
A: The biggest advantage of concrete is that it is completely customizable as they are completely handmade. We can sculpt, mold, inlay, and texture it to suite your desire. Most clients look at them as a piece of art as each piece is unique.
The cost will be based on the complexity of the form, the mold-making process and the desired finish, rather than purely the size.
Q: Do concrete countertops have an application in more traditional kitchens?
A: Yes, but style is dictated by design. Please call us for design ideas or even the cohabitaion of materials within the same kitchen to create an sleek look with traditonal or overtones.
Q: Do concrete countertops work in a professional kitchen?
A: In Oregon, as in most states, concrete counters are allowed in food-service areas. And at CCD, we use FDA approved beeswax as the final finish on our products.
Q: Can concrete be used as a cutting surface?
A: Just as in stone countertops, cutting is not recommeded but we offer an integrated cutting board into the countertops for those customers who express the need or desire for this feature.
Q: Can I put a hot pot directly onto a cast concrete countertop?
A: We recommend using trivets for hot cookware, a feature that we can integrate into the design and fabrication process (see Lavina kitchen pictures). Concrete is heat-resistant but can be subject to thermal shock if a red-hot object is placed directly upon it. Like granite or other stone, the exposed area may flake or chip away if too much heat is applied.
Q: Would concrete countertops be good for outside use, say, in a pool area such as a grill surround and/or serving counter?
A: Outside use is very common and not an issue with CCD countertops. In fact, we like to really have fun with outside designs that enhance your garden area.
Q: Will concrete color hold up well in the sunshine?
A: Our colors are very stable, most iron-oxide pigments are colorfast, including the reds, yellows, browns, oranges, and blacks. The greens and blues are a bit more unpredictable when subject to UV rays.
Q: Do concrete counters stain?
A: Properly sealed and maintained countertops should not stain under normal conditions. CCD uses a comprehensive multi step sealing process that will inhibit staining.
Q: Can concrete chip, flake, or crack?
A: Designs from CCD are created to reduce the potential for chipping and cracking. Corners and edges can chip if struck by a hard object, but with our experience in designs, we have successfully reduced this possibility.
Q: How thin or thick can I have my countertop?
A: Thicker countertops give the concrete a sense of mass, something not achieved with Corian or Granite. We typically design and build countertops that are between 2 and 3 inches. An apron front yields the appearance of much thicker pieces, say in a fireplace hearth or countertop and conversely, our thinnest surfaces are 1" thin.
Q: Do I need to reinforce the supporting cabinetry in order to accommodate the weight of a concrete counter?
A: Generally speaking, you don't need to reinforce your cabinetry or floor to support the countertop. However, if the supporting cabinets are single-wall or made of particle board, vertical plywood reinforcements may be necessary. With a Mechanical Engineer and General Contractor on staff, we will be pleased to assist on the evaluation of your specific needs. Your countertop will weigh approximately 135 pounds per cubic foot.
Q: What sort of routine maintenance is required to keep a nice finish?
A: A light buff with a bit of wax once or twice a year will even out the surface (by getting rid of fingerprints) and put a little kick back into the luster.
Q: What forms of payment are available?
A: CCD requests a deposit of 50% to start get on our schedule, another 40% due after completion but prior to installation and the final 10% due on completion of installation and satisfaction of client. Please do not hesitate to ask about other payment options.
