Clearing Up Misperceptions About Concrete Countertops
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One way you can overcome false perceptions about concrete countertops is to provide a handout with common questions and answers or post an FAQ section on your website. Include information about how countertops are made, stain resistance, sanitation, maintenance, the potential for cracking, and other things they should know about concrete countertop production and performance.
See this example from the Concrete Connections website. |
Video: Working Around the Vulnerabilities of
Concrete Countertops
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Countertop deisgner Fu-Tung Cheng invites you into his home to learn more about the
vulnerabilities and durability of concrete countertops. He explains how
to design around the inherent weaknesses of concrete and take advantage of its
strengths.
Watch the video now. |
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Great Countertops Start by Meeting
Customer Expectations
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Hi ,
 What people love most about concrete countertops is their ability to be personalized. Since they are made from scratch rather than in a factory, they can be tailored to suit a particular lifestyle, aesthetic taste or budget. But as with any handcrafted piece, the results won't be cookie-cutter, and some of your clients may not understand that variations are to be expected. They may also not realize that even concrete has performance and design limitations. It's your job to inform customers about what to expect with concrete countertops, both aesthetically and functionally. Here are some tips for avoiding unwanted surprises and ensuring happy customers.. Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
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Put the customer first
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 Custom-made concrete countertops are usually a collaboration, blending the client's desires with your skill as the countertop maker. However, it's essential to put the customer's likes, dislikes and wants first, even if you disagree with their tastes and color choices. See Importance of Satisfying the Client's Vision. |
Educate them about the production process
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 Many homeowners and kitchen designers have no idea how concrete countertops are made and what the design possibilities (or limitations) are. Explain to them your production procedures and the timeline of the process. Also, prepare a written guide to concrete countertops and go through it with them. The more your clients know about your construction methods and skills, the more confidence they'll have in the product. |
Be honest about performance
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| Concrete countertops have many more positive attributes than negative ones, but you should still inform your clients of the potential downsides. Imperfections, such as hairline cracks and
slight irregularities, are possible, and concrete countertops can stain if not properly sealed. They may also require seams, depending on the size. |
Provide samples
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 If your client requests a custom countertop color or finish, or wants you to incorporate decorative aggregates or embeds, be sure to make up a sample they can see and approve beforehand. (See Concrete Countertop Color Options and Samples.) Also, consider developing a sample kit showing the standard colors and edge treatments you offer. |
Communicate and follow up
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There's one common thread to all of the advice above--communication. You need to involve your clients in the process right from the beginning and keep them informed every step of the way, including asking them about their satisfaction with the work after the job is finished. Only then can you build the countertops they envisioned. | |
