FAQ's

Why Precast?

Quality - With precast the finished quality exceed that of insitu concrete as the product is created in a controlled factory environment. 2barrows only source premium raw materials combined with accurate weighting systems and proprietary mix designs and casting equipment that can ensure a high consistency and quality of our precast.

Less mess – we are able to grind and seal the precast element at our factory eliminating on site sludge and mess.

Time flexibility – with the precast being fabricated off site other trades can complete their work without interruption and the precast can be installed days after the cabinet work is complete.

Product - “size does matter”

We can cast as thin as 45mm or as thick as 150mm or more, our common benchtop thickness are: 50,60 and 70mm The supporting cabinet will need to have the capability to carry approx 150kg/m2 We have over 60 oxide colours to choose from and can be combined with , a multitude of aggregates and sands .We can cast voids for sinks , cook tops and taps

The bench can be cast with no joints eliminating joint opening problems that can occur with other bench top products Bench size will be limited primarily by installation constraints. We have installed benches 3.3 m long by 1.1m wide x 70mm thick

Allow approx 6 week lead time from final drawings, colour and finishes selection to bench top installation

Finishes “it’s all in the grind”

Similar to ground coffee tastes in concrete finishes vary determined by clients preferences and application to satisfy these tastes 2barrows has a number of finishes:

The Light Grind – this is a light sanding of the bench which highlights the concrete paste, this is similar to a burnished or steel trowel finish

The Medium Grind – this is a medium grind and contains the burnished finish above with areas of heavy grinding exposing patches of aggregate. This has become a popular look and gives a weathered river bed finish to the concrete.

The Heavy Grind – this is an overall heavy grind exposing aggregates and is similar to a terrazzo finish. More for people who like their coffee strong.

Sealers “ to protect and serve”

Concrete is a durable product and is used in major structures such as dams, tunnels bridges and high rise buildings. Its strength and durability are inherent properties of the product.

Concrete is also porous eg it will allow water into it.

2barrows is constantly testing and using sealer products to determine their effectiveness and application. From this testing and from discussion with designers and architects we know that each application may vary the requirements of the sealer to be used. We primarily use a semi impregnating topical sealer for most kitchen and bathroom applications this has stain resistance but can be scratched with a knife.

Installation “it's really heavy dude”

Concrete is a robust product this can be seen from its use in nearly all aspects of building , it weights 2400kg/m3 or per thickness:

40mm = 96kg/m2

50mm = 120kg/m2

60mm = 144kg/m2

70mm = 168kg/m2

At 2barrows we always review the install locations to determine the best access to install the precast.

We coordinate closely with the cabinet makers and builder to ensure that the cabinets are strong enough

We recommend that the cabinet maker used vertical member of at least 25mm (this is easily achieved by doubling the vertical timber elements.) Also we request a solid top on the bench so we can glue the bench top down to it.

These requirements are not expensive and are minimal work for the cabinet maker. We also require assistance from the builder in man power to install.

A typical installation will take 2-4 hours. (Based on an island benchtop with sides)

2barrows has a series of trolleys, hoists , carpet runners (to protect flooring) and safety equipment o place the product We do review with the client the location and installation method prior to install.

Maintenance “you can't hurt concrete”

Concrete similar to other materials and does require some maintenance

Concrete is commonly used in high heat and wear environments so the base product is tough and durable. Polishing gives our product a very hard and durable surface combined with our proprietary mix designs achieve higher strengths than average concrete.

These factors make for a very durable base product. The only maintenance required is for the sealer used

At 2barrows we use sealers that are designed for use in high traffic industrial applications. By using these sealers we can endeavor to extent the life between resealing .

This is estimated at 3-4 year period.

Maintenance Program – Polished concrete:

Cleaning: 

After the Concrete has been installed and sealed, soils and Dirt and grime should be removed daily with a Dust stick or damp cloth to maintain the appearance and cleanliness of the product. A neutral cleaner (or equivalent) should be used this is a mild cleaner not containing bleach or peroxides eg use soap and water. We use a coating type sealer to protect the concrete can be scratched if used as a cutting board.

 

DO NOT Clean with CITRUS, AMMONIA, PEROXIDE CHLORINE or ACID based cleaners

Also note any spills of liquids such as red wine, lemon juice, hair dies etc should be cleaned off immediately and not left to stand on the top for any period of time.

 

Re sealing:

The bench top and table should be resealed on every 3 years or as required due to wear. This is done by using an approved 2barrows sealer with a sponge roller. A P2 breather and protective clothing will be required as well as good ventilation during the sealing process.

Cost ?

Concrete Bench tops, stairs and vanities are priced similar to other stone products; such as granite and marble. The main difference is that concrete is a casting that can be in one piece not built up from smaller pieces mitered together. Their are many options available such as colour, shape, thickness, aggregate etc, our precast is priced according to the individual projects and complexity of the individual pieces manufacture and installation.

Will they scratch?

The sealer used to protect your bench top has some scratch resistant; but if abused it will scratch. The perfect sealer has not yet been created yet. We recommend you always use a cutting board for cutting of any kind on top of your bench tops. Scratches occur primarily in the sealer and can be buffed out with a lambs wool buffer.

Will they crack?

Our bench tops have been designed to have shrinkage taken up during curing and are reinforced. This reduces the likelihood of cracking. Hairline cracks (micro cracks) can occur over time primarily around penetrations and are not considered a defect in the product. With the concrete being reinforced any hairline cracks will not open up and fail like stone.

 

Cut-outs / form-outs? 

Holes for sinks, cooktops and taps, sloping draining boards and edge profiles are all cast in the form work to exact specification.

 

Colours?

See ccs colour chart. Click here to download.

 

Staining?

Sealers come in two types. Those that are topically applied like a varnish and adhere to the surface creating a barrier and sheen. The other sealers penetrate the surface leaving a natural look and feel. It's these penetrating sealers that allow moisture to move in and out of the piece without leaving stains. Both types of sealers protect well against oils and dirt though acids such as vinegar and red wine can tend to lighten but not discolour the surface. If a totally impervious surface is what you require then concrete may not be for you. The product is similar to natural stone and we use similar sealing products.

 

Chipping? 

Unlike natural stone, concrete doesn't have a grain. If struck hard it won't ripple-shatter a large circle or cleave off. The damage would be contained to the point of impact and can be easily repaired.

 

Why should I entertain concrete as a material for interior applications like kitchen or bathroom counters?

Concrete is an extraordinary material that is practical, expressive, and aesthetic all at once. From primal and formless slurry, you can transform it into virtually any shape that becomes a solid mass. The possibilities for creative expression are endless. You can grind, polish, stamp, or stain it. You can embed meaningful objects within it. The biggest advantage of concrete is that it is completely customizable; you can sculpt, mold, and texturize it to your own desire.

Can I put a hot pot directly onto a concrete kitchen counter?

Concrete is heat-resistant but is subject to thermal shock if a red-hot object is placed directly upon it. Like granite, the exposed area may flake or chip away if too much heat is applied. In addition, the heat could damage the sealer and wax applied to the surface. We recommend using trivets for hot cookware.