goemaw.com

General Discussion => Essentially Flyertalk => Topic started by: sys on January 10, 2014, 11:58:41 PM

Title: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 10, 2014, 11:58:41 PM
state your allegiance.  make your case.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 11, 2014, 12:01:01 AM
Concrete allegiance. Case: awesome,  industrial, modern, functional.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: michigancat on January 11, 2014, 12:06:01 AM
I like granite because you can set hot things on it. So I guess concrete would work, too. I'm a renter so I don't have much choice.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: bones129 on January 11, 2014, 12:06:44 AM
I like countertops. Period. Can't do without them.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 12:07:34 AM
Concrete allegiance. Case: awesome,  industrial, modern, functional.

modern sucks, your case fails.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 12:08:11 AM
I like granite because you can set hot things on it.

very functional.  that's a strong argument.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: J on January 11, 2014, 12:14:45 AM
Concrete allegiance. Case: awesome,  industrial, modern, functional.

modern sucks, your case fails.

sys that's a bad counter-argument. (you used a red herring tactic, which is a logical fallacy)
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 11, 2014, 12:18:13 AM
While modern, concrete has also been around since roman times, sys.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 12:22:47 AM
sys that's a bad counter-argument. (you used a red herring tactic, which is a logical fallacy)

 :surprised:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 12:24:01 AM
While modern, concrete has also been around since roman times, sys.

a centuries old concrete countertop would be interesting and attractive, perhaps not functional.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: slimz on January 11, 2014, 12:38:05 AM
While modern, concrete has also been around since roman times, sys.

Counterpoint: granite is from the Precambrian age. Still functional. And will remain so long after you have need of it.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: bones129 on January 11, 2014, 12:44:32 AM
While modern, concrete has also been around since roman times, sys.

Counterpoint: granite is from the Precambrian age. Still functional. And will remain so long after you have need of it.

This is kind of what I'm thinking. Granite is great, but why would I spend the $ on it when I can't enjoy it for all my years?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 12:52:19 AM
Granite is great, but why would I spend the $ on it when I can't enjoy it for all my years?

cheap granite is close to as cheap as any top.  and you've gotta have tops.  you can't do without them.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: bubbles4ksu on January 11, 2014, 12:57:11 AM
get marble unless your a poor, Sys.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: star seed 7 on January 11, 2014, 12:59:48 AM
I'm pro countertop
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: NDSU Lollypopkid on January 11, 2014, 01:03:33 AM
get marble unless your a poor, Sys.
you're*
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: The Big Train on January 11, 2014, 01:10:00 AM
Brazilian Granite or gtfo.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: bubbles4ksu on January 11, 2014, 01:13:40 AM
get marble unless your a poor, Sys.
you're*
i was trying to annoy my good friend sys but the attempted joke went over your short head.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: star seed 7 on January 11, 2014, 01:17:39 AM
Fatality
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: J on January 11, 2014, 01:17:59 AM
get marble unless your a poor, Sys.
you're*

eff off, you northern plebeian.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 11, 2014, 01:20:05 AM
I'm pro countertop

Good stance. Topless counters have reduced functionality and aesthetic.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 01:31:25 AM
get marble unless your a poor, Sys.

a)  using the term "poor" offends me.  please stop.
b)  marble is beautiful, i love it.  but it is empirically less functional than granite.  how can you justify that choice?  pure illogical contrarianism.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: bubbles4ksu on January 11, 2014, 01:48:10 AM
get marble unless your a poor, Sys.

a)  using the term "poor" offends me.  please stop.
b)  marble is beautiful, i love it.  but it is empirically less functional than granite.  how can you justify that choice?  pure illogical contrarianism.
:D
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: lopakman on January 11, 2014, 08:22:31 AM
We're on our third house, we've had wooden countertops, laminate countertops and now granite.  Let me tell you, granite is the way to go.  It may be expensive up front but did you know it can actually save you money in the long run due to its longevity and ability to age well?

Granite is a rock made out of quartz, mica, and feldspar. Considered one of the strongest countertop materials, granite resists most scratches and even responds well to acid spills. In addition to resisting water, granite keeps its shine and looks brand new all the time. Washing this countertop material is easy and it does well with any cleaning chemical.

/thread

Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Saulbadguy on January 11, 2014, 08:28:44 AM
cheapest you can find.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: AppleJack on January 11, 2014, 08:34:29 AM
huge fan of butcher block. love the imperfections it picks up over the years.

that chick i married says recycled glass is balls right now. so hot. or quartz if you like durability and not to expensive.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: steve dave on January 11, 2014, 08:47:38 AM
granite, no downsides to it. Try to think of one. You can't. Concrete requires maintenance.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Tobias on January 11, 2014, 08:49:08 AM
sheet metal
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: tdaver on January 11, 2014, 08:57:12 AM
I would choose quartz over granite.  It's more durable and non-porous so it doesn't need to be sealed regularly like granite.  But both are good, depends on what look you are going for.

I agree with TBJ about butcher block.  Would definitely consider this route, especially if on a budget and DIY'ing it.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Pete on January 11, 2014, 09:15:32 AM
granite, no downsides to it. Try to think of one. You can't. Concrete requires maintenance.

I redid my kitchen this summer and put in grantie, and went ahead and the same granite in two bathrooms. I love it.

BUT, if you drop a glass on it, it will break easier.  Only bad thing I can say about it, though.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: michigancat on January 11, 2014, 09:20:05 AM
granite, no downsides to it. Try to think of one. You can't. Concrete requires maintenance.

I don't like the way most granite I've seen looks. But probably no functional downsides.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Asteriskhead on January 11, 2014, 09:39:36 AM
i'm anti-countertop but i'm pro table.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: AST on January 11, 2014, 09:42:04 AM
quartz, next topic please
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: 8manpick on January 11, 2014, 09:43:22 AM
Himalayan salt block
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Pete on January 11, 2014, 10:02:11 AM
granite, no downsides to it. Try to think of one. You can't. Concrete requires maintenance.

I don't like the way most granite I've seen looks. But probably no functional downsides.

I'm not terribly picky on the look, so for me it was easy to do.  I just picked out a pretty neutral looking tan-ish color with a limited number of lines and speckles and crap and ran with it.  Pretty basic.  The install was easy, the dudes did everything.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Boom Roasted on January 11, 2014, 10:12:59 AM
I tiled mine with travertine. Hot things like granite for about $4 sqft. Little tougher to clean but it works great for me.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: chum1 on January 11, 2014, 10:23:33 AM
Granite is probably a good option if you'll need your countertop for more than 1000 years.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: wetwillie on January 11, 2014, 10:29:52 AM
huge fan of butcher block. love the imperfections it picks up over the years.

that chick i married says recycled glass is balls right now. so hot. or quartz if you like durability and not to expensive.

That recycled glass does look great.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: kim carnes on January 11, 2014, 10:30:19 AM
1. marble
2. quartz
3. granite
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: IPA4Me on January 11, 2014, 10:52:25 AM
Not a big fan of putting radiation sources on my countertops. I'd pass on the granite.

Laminate with the rolled edge has worked well for us.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: lopakman on January 11, 2014, 11:03:00 AM


Laminate with the rolled edge has worked well for us.

Based on your deck this does not surprise me.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: The Big Train on January 11, 2014, 11:10:57 AM
 :horrorsurprise:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: IPA4Me on January 11, 2014, 11:16:48 AM


Laminate with the rolled edge has worked well for us.

Based on your deck this does not surprise me.
Don't let let the frugality of my deck maintenance confuse you. We have marble countertops in the master with matching marble shower.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: steve dave on January 11, 2014, 12:49:36 PM

Not a big fan of putting radiation sources on my countertops. I'd pass on the granite.

Didn't know about this. Terrifying. Do they not have a test for it?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: IPA4Me on January 11, 2014, 01:10:53 PM

Not a big fan of putting radiation sources on my countertops. I'd pass on the granite.

Didn't know about this. Terrifying. Do they not have a test for it?
Geiger counter. Oh

You can use a radon test kit.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Tobias on January 11, 2014, 01:12:49 PM

Not a big fan of putting radiation sources on my countertops. I'd pass on the granite.

Didn't know about this. Terrifying. Do they not have a test for it?

time to call the builder! :runaway:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Bloodfart on January 11, 2014, 01:48:24 PM
Right now we have laminate but it is all scratched to crap from the previous owners.  We have decided to go with quarts because of the low maintenance and durability.  Considered granite but you have to reseal it periodically and that doesn't seem like anything I'd want to spend my free time doing.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: mocat on January 11, 2014, 01:56:19 PM
How many quarts bloodfart? :lol:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 11, 2014, 02:04:12 PM
i kinda like the leathered finish granite, especially in dark colors.  not as pretty as marble, but better than polished granite.  honed looks good too.


any thoughts on soapstone?  looks great, but i think it's expensive.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: cDubya on January 11, 2014, 02:08:38 PM
Himalayan salt block

Wonderful cross-thread post, here. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Bloodfart on January 11, 2014, 02:31:04 PM
How many quarts bloodfart? :lol:
:D
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: J on January 11, 2014, 03:03:04 PM
Dragonbone
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: chum1 on January 11, 2014, 03:15:36 PM
Oscar de la Renta slate
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: everyone shut up on January 11, 2014, 04:03:15 PM
Right now we have laminate but it is all scratched to crap from the previous owners.  We have decided to go with quarts because of the low maintenance and durability.  Considered granite but you have to reseal it periodically and that doesn't seem like anything I'd want to spend my free time doing.
I resealed my granite last week. Maybe took 10 minutes.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Asteriskhead on January 11, 2014, 04:10:33 PM
Himalayan salt block

Wonderful cross-thread post, here. :thumbsup:

it really was.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Bloodfart on January 11, 2014, 08:17:24 PM
Right now we have laminate but it is all scratched to crap from the previous owners.  We have decided to go with quarts because of the low maintenance and durability.  Considered granite but you have to reseal it periodically and that doesn't seem like anything I'd want to spend my free time doing.
I resealed my granite last week. Maybe took 10 minutes.

That's 10 minutes that could have been spent BBS'n.  Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and BBS around once in a while, you could miss it.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: everyone shut up on January 11, 2014, 09:12:16 PM
Right now we have laminate but it is all scratched to crap from the previous owners.  We have decided to go with quarts because of the low maintenance and durability.  Considered granite but you have to reseal it periodically and that doesn't seem like anything I'd want to spend my free time doing.
I resealed my granite last week. Maybe took 10 minutes.

That's 10 minutes that could have been spent BBS'n.  Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and BBS around once in a while, you could miss it.
You know what? You're absolutely right. I made a poor choice. Forgive me?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Mikeyis4dcats on January 11, 2014, 09:24:19 PM
most granite doesn't really require sealing.   Especially if it's not a light color.

We use a cleaner that also seals.

We started our search thinking we wanted quartz, but ended up with Napoli granite.  The only downside is it is much harder to get clean because you can't see the debris/spots as easy.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Kat Kid on January 11, 2014, 09:30:38 PM

most granite doesn't really require sealing.   Especially if it's not a light color.

We use a cleaner that also seals.

We started our search thinking we wanted quartz, but ended up with Napoli granite.  The only downside is it is much harder to get clean because you can't see the debris/spots as easy.

Seems like that would make it easier to clean.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: slucat on January 11, 2014, 09:30:46 PM
Quartz.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Bloodfart on January 11, 2014, 09:32:53 PM
Right now we have laminate but it is all scratched to crap from the previous owners.  We have decided to go with quarts because of the low maintenance and durability.  Considered granite but you have to reseal it periodically and that doesn't seem like anything I'd want to spend my free time doing.
I resealed my granite last week. Maybe took 10 minutes.

That's 10 minutes that could have been spent BBS'n.  Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and BBS around once in a while, you could miss it.
You know what? You're absolutely right. I made a poor choice. Forgive me?
(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffotos.fotoflexer.com%2F1d2a287847f494c1316ed6e3bb562a0c.jpg&hash=5459af2165a55121991e7b109f78cc44290ed36c)
Yeah man, do what ever you want.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Tobias on January 11, 2014, 09:39:07 PM
:lol:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Trim on January 11, 2014, 09:43:54 PM
:lol:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Mikeyis4dcats on January 12, 2014, 04:58:00 PM

most granite doesn't really require sealing.   Especially if it's not a light color.

We use a cleaner that also seals.

We started our search thinking we wanted quartz, but ended up with Napoli granite.  The only downside is it is much harder to get clean because you can't see the debris/spots as easy.

Seems like that would make it easier to clean.

may LOOK clean, but harder to actually clean.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 14, 2014, 03:06:58 PM
I've always fantasized about DIYing a concrete countertop, but this soapstone stuff is pretty attractive to me.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: star seed 7 on January 14, 2014, 03:23:35 PM
I've always fantasized about DIYing a concrete countertop, but this soapstone stuff is pretty attractive to me.

Doing DIY concrete for my bros basement bar.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 14, 2014, 03:24:04 PM
I've always fantasized about DIYing a concrete countertop, but this soapstone stuff is pretty attractive to me.

Doing DIY concrete for my bros basement bar.

please report results!
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: steve dave on January 14, 2014, 03:29:18 PM
soaptstone sounds like an unbelievable pain in the ass but looks hawt
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 14, 2014, 08:26:07 PM
soaptstone sounds like an unbelievable pain in the ass but looks hawt

it doesn't sound hard to me.  just oil it up if you want that look, don't if you don't.  is a nice look (marble is better).
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Emo EMAW on January 15, 2014, 08:31:30 AM
I like the ones with quarters and old baseball cards laid underneath some sort of clear resin that dries hard.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: slucat on January 15, 2014, 08:45:36 AM
I like the ones with quarters and old baseball cards laid underneath some sort of clear resin that dries hard.

sounds like a bartop, no?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Dr Rick Daris on January 15, 2014, 11:29:14 AM
man countertops you guys. we bought our house a few years ago and after a couple of months my wife is like i hate our countertops. they're cheap and cheap looking and i want to get new ones. i mean omg i laughed for like a week on that one.  :lol:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: star seed 7 on January 15, 2014, 01:54:45 PM
I like the ones with quarters and old baseball cards laid underneath some sort of clear resin that dries hard.

what about like.... 10,073 pennies?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 15, 2014, 02:27:15 PM
man countertops you guys. we bought our house a few years ago and after a couple of months my wife is like i hate our countertops. they're cheap and cheap looking and i want to get new ones. i mean omg i laughed for like a week on that one.  :lol:

get your wife to post here.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Mikeyis4dcats on January 15, 2014, 02:33:19 PM
I've done projects with concrete countertops.   Never liked them when done.   Too many hairline cracks, unevenness, etc.  The only one I ever liked was done by Kopa Concrete in Topeka, but it was  very expensive.

Soapstone is nice, we looked at them for our house, but decided they didn't fit the decor.    M Terrera is a good supplier nationwide though.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: pissclams on January 15, 2014, 02:35:05 PM
soapstone would remind me of being in chemistry lab.  no thanks.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: pissclams on January 15, 2014, 02:35:21 PM
i said no thanks and i meant it.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 15, 2014, 04:12:28 PM
I've done projects with concrete countertops.   Never liked them when done.   Too many hairline cracks, unevenness, etc.  The only one I ever liked was done by Kopa Concrete in Topeka, but it was  very expensive.

yeah, the ones i've seen have not been terribly attractive.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: ShellShock on January 15, 2014, 04:18:12 PM
Silestone. Just put a massive slab in my house and it looks great. Pretty expensive, but once it's done, you won't regret it.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 15, 2014, 04:20:23 PM
I made this countertop (and walnut floating vanity...*shines fingernails*) out of concrete. It's just white, but came out pretty good.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FIMG_6214.jpg&hash=721d5a8c84f65cf9eb15b9367ce65039977f610c)

This bar as well. The bar has gray "fill" in it to make it a bit more interesting. Didn't come out as good as I would have liked, but I kind of rushed it and said "meh". Most people that see it like it though. It's one piece.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FIMG_6210.jpg&hash=7399e9edcaa073b164bd470b631dd86f0448bfb6)
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 15, 2014, 04:24:20 PM
How did you made a vanity out of concrete that looks like walnut and floats?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 15, 2014, 04:25:05 PM
How did you made a vanity out of concrete that looks like walnut and floats?
Can't give away trade secrets. Sorry.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: mocat on January 15, 2014, 04:26:49 PM
How did you made a vanity out of concrete that looks like walnut and floats?

he's an artist, not a writer. sheesh.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: mocat on January 15, 2014, 04:27:51 PM
I made this countertop (and walnut floating vanity...*shines fingernails*) out of concrete. It's just white, but came out pretty good.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FIMG_6214.jpg&hash=721d5a8c84f65cf9eb15b9367ce65039977f610c)

This bar as well. The bar has gray "fill" in it to make it a bit more interesting. Didn't come out as good as I would have liked, but I kind of rushed it and said "meh". Most people that see it like it though. It's one piece.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FIMG_6210.jpg&hash=7399e9edcaa073b164bd470b631dd86f0448bfb6)

that looks pretty great, KITN. do you like that sink formation? does it get real dirty under there? seems like gunk would just collect where the sink comes in contact with the countertop.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Emo EMAW on January 15, 2014, 04:36:41 PM
Hey KITN  :thumbs: :thumbs: but c'mon get a towel ring or something in there. 
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 15, 2014, 04:37:58 PM


that looks pretty great, KITN. do you like that sink formation? does it get real dirty under there? seems like gunk would just collect where the sink comes in contact with the countertop.
It's not really an issue. I thought about that before I got it as well. But, it's also just the basement bathroom so it's not like I'm brushing my teeth and shaving in that sink daily. I will be redoing my upstairs bath sometime in the coming months and I will again use a vessel sink, but I'll use one that meets the top at 90 degrees so it can be cleaned easily.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 15, 2014, 04:38:31 PM
Hey KITN  :thumbs: :thumbs: but c'mon get a towel ring or something in there.
I have a towl rack now, but that pic was taken pretty much right after it was "done".
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Emo EMAW on January 15, 2014, 04:39:01 PM
Cool.  Looks great.   

Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: IPA4Me on January 15, 2014, 04:42:43 PM
Nice work.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: chum1 on January 15, 2014, 04:48:12 PM
Countertops the single most controversial topic on home buying shows.  It's absurd.  $400,000 for a house?  Absolutely.  $404,000 for a house plus me getting the countertops I can't live without installed?  No rough ridin' way.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Harry Doyle on January 15, 2014, 05:34:39 PM
Getting recycled glass installed next week. Considered granite and quartz, but the glass was boss.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: sys on January 15, 2014, 06:45:42 PM
melted trash or beautiful rock?  i'll take the trash, thanks.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: The Big Train on January 15, 2014, 11:22:13 PM
Silestone. Just put a massive slab in my house and it looks great. Pretty expensive, but once it's done, you won't regret it.

On the dining room bar? Thanks for sending me a pic. :don'tcare:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: star seed 7 on January 15, 2014, 11:23:42 PM
Parents had silestone, great product
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 16, 2014, 07:45:50 AM
New house came with Corian(sp?).  Basically bright white with a slight speckle to it.  Don't care.  Have more immediate things to take care of, like the traveling back in time to murder the wallpaper guy.

Sent from my KFTT using Tapatalk

Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: lopakman on January 16, 2014, 07:58:59 AM
Lotta people posting in this thread without sharing pictures of their countertops.   :dubious:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 16, 2014, 08:03:48 AM
melted trash or beautiful rock?  i'll take the trash, thanks.

i'm attracted to melted trash too. what about smushed up sea creature shells? is that a thing?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Mikeyis4dcats on January 16, 2014, 08:35:12 AM
I made this countertop (and walnut floating vanity...*shines fingernails*) out of concrete. It's just white, but came out pretty good.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FIMG_6214.jpg&hash=721d5a8c84f65cf9eb15b9367ce65039977f610c)

This bar as well. The bar has gray "fill" in it to make it a bit more interesting. Didn't come out as good as I would have liked, but I kind of rushed it and said "meh". Most people that see it like it though. It's one piece.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FIMG_6210.jpg&hash=7399e9edcaa073b164bd470b631dd86f0448bfb6)

VERY nice work KITN.  Those look much nicer than the 3 tops I paid professionals to fabricate.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Dr Rick Daris on January 16, 2014, 08:41:23 AM
Countertops the single most controversial topic on home buying shows.  It's absurd.  $400,000 for a house?  Absolutely.  $404,000 for a house plus me getting the countertops I can't live without installed?  No rough ridin' way.

yeah. so bizarre.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: ew2x4 on January 16, 2014, 09:48:54 AM
I have granite, and I love it, but I think I'd go with a quartz product in my "dream house".

Not sure if it's been talked about, but with granite, you can put hot metal products, but not hot glass products. The cold granite will shatter the glass.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Brock Landers on January 16, 2014, 10:06:29 AM
I have granite, and I love it, but I think I'd go with a quartz product in my "dream house".

Not sure if it's been talked about, but with granite, you can put hot metal products, but not hot glass products. The cold granite will shatter the glass.


How do the other countertop materials stay warmer?   :popcorn:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 16, 2014, 10:07:11 AM
I have granite, and I love it, but I think I'd go with a quartz product in my "dream house".

Not sure if it's been talked about, but with granite, you can put hot metal products, but not hot glass products. The cold granite will shatter the glass.


How do the other countertop materials stay warmer?   :popcorn:

its an energy density thing
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 16, 2014, 10:15:17 AM

VERY nice work KITN.  Those look much nicer than the 3 tops I paid professionals to fabricate.
Back in the day, I used to work at a countertop place and before I left I got just a small amount of experience of working with concrete. I'd definitely recommend them to any Manhattan people, they pay high attention to detail. They do any higher end stuff.

Not a countertop, but here's my fireplace surround that I made out of concrete. There are a lot of things you can do with it, but it's a lot of damn work. That wall color looks pretty hideous in the pic, but that's not really what it looks like.
(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FHouse%2FDSCF1601.jpg&hash=c21ad9a0de7a055527b66e19666ad525da8677a1)
(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi15.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa370%2F2_wheeled_slave%2FHouse%2FDSCF1606.jpg&hash=5ffc8734eabd70f3189cc40253bc13ca8d81554b)

Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: mocat on January 16, 2014, 10:20:23 AM
what is supporting that mantle thing?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 16, 2014, 10:24:59 AM
what is supporting that mantle thing?
Magic













Magic = steel that I put in the wet concrete that protruded from the back. I then welded steel vertically to the protrusion that bolted to the studs in the wall. Finished by patching the drywall.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: mocat on January 16, 2014, 10:26:05 AM
did you double up the studs that were supporting the mantle?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 16, 2014, 10:27:30 AM
did you double up the studs that were supporting the mantle?
Can't remember, so prolly no. But the vertical strap I bolted through was like 2' long with 3 bolts on top and bottom. The studs didn't twist at all.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 16, 2014, 12:20:53 PM
Stain or color concrete?  Assuming either depending on the desired result.  It looks like you stained the surround and colored the vanity, correct?
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 16, 2014, 12:27:03 PM
Stain or color concrete?  Assuming either depending on the desired result.  It looks like you stained the surround and colored the vanity, correct?
They were all done with integral color.

I played with acid staining for a little bit, but decided against it for my projects, although I do like the look that people can get out of it. Some acid staining is just ridic good. This is one of my personal favorites I've found online:

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flindusconstruction.areavoices.com%2Ffiles%2F2012%2F04%2Fabsolute-concrete-works-countertop.jpg&hash=d95b65fe1b462502b2ad9aff511d13c9c041c501)
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 16, 2014, 12:29:19 PM
Stain or color concrete?  Assuming either depending on the desired result.  It looks like you stained the surround and colored the vanity, correct?
They were all done with integral color.

I played with acid staining for a little bit, but decided against it for my projects, although I do like the look that people can get out of it. Some acid staining is just ridic good. This is one of my personal favorites I've found online:

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flindusconstruction.areavoices.com%2Ffiles%2F2012%2F04%2Fabsolute-concrete-works-countertop.jpg&hash=d95b65fe1b462502b2ad9aff511d13c9c041c501)

the very first one my old company did came out looking just like your surround, with that marbled variation look.  It was fantastic.  Customer hated it because it wasn't a solid consistent color(even though they were told it wouldn't be) and we covered the whole thing with $75k of terrazzo.   The integral makes most sense though in case it gets chipped.  Just surprised you could get that variation with integral color.(haven't worked with much colored concrete).
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 16, 2014, 12:35:07 PM
Stain or color concrete?  Assuming either depending on the desired result.  It looks like you stained the surround and colored the vanity, correct?
They were all done with integral color.

I played with acid staining for a little bit, but decided against it for my projects, although I do like the look that people can get out of it. Some acid staining is just ridic good. This is one of my personal favorites I've found online:

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flindusconstruction.areavoices.com%2Ffiles%2F2012%2F04%2Fabsolute-concrete-works-countertop.jpg&hash=d95b65fe1b462502b2ad9aff511d13c9c041c501)

the very first one my old company did came out looking just like your surround, with that marbled variation look.  It was fantastic.  Customer hated it because it wasn't a solid consistent color(even though they were told it wouldn't be) and we covered the whole thing with $75k of terrazzo.   The integral makes most sense though in case it gets chipped.  Just surprised you could get that variation with integral color.(haven't worked with much colored concrete).
Buddy Rhodes, who is kind of a decorative concrete guru, developed a method that I used. Essentially, you make thick concrete, form it into balls, and press it into a mold. After it cures, you fill in the voids it leaves with a different color and polish. You can fill it until it's glass smooth, but I left some voids still there to for a slightly rustic look.

Here's an example of how it looks when completely filled in. Obviously any color combination can be used:

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm5.staticflickr.com%2F4067%2F4433937087_846263164f_b.jpg&hash=2776147c5230658ed84182758f8e4db2e6910221)
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 16, 2014, 12:51:39 PM
for a guy named Buddy, that is pretty genius.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: ew2x4 on January 16, 2014, 12:54:27 PM
I have granite, and I love it, but I think I'd go with a quartz product in my "dream house".

Not sure if it's been talked about, but with granite, you can put hot metal products, but not hot glass products. The cold granite will shatter the glass.


How do the other countertop materials stay warmer?   :popcorn:

Well have you ever touched granite? Have you ever touched plastic? Granite is always colder. Same reason metals feel colder than wood. I think it has to do with density and how well it conducts heat away from your hand.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: KITNfury on January 16, 2014, 01:01:29 PM
I have granite, and I love it, but I think I'd go with a quartz product in my "dream house".

Not sure if it's been talked about, but with granite, you can put hot metal products, but not hot glass products. The cold granite will shatter the glass.


How do the other countertop materials stay warmer?   :popcorn:

Well have you ever touched granite? Have you ever touched plastic? Granite is always colder. Same reason metals feel colder than wood. I think it has to do with density and how well it conducts heat away from your hand.
Specific heat!
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 16, 2014, 01:03:23 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly? 
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Bloodfart on January 16, 2014, 01:30:48 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: lopakman on January 16, 2014, 01:34:42 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.

I cut the crap out of stuff on our countertops. 
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 16, 2014, 01:36:40 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.

I cut the crap out of stuff on our countertops.

miracle blade III user outed
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Tobias on January 16, 2014, 01:36:47 PM
I cut the crap out of stuff on our countertops.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcdn3.whatculture.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F05%2Farrested-development-buster-monster-hook.jpg&hash=3f0e280ec55e8fe87b22591740ca4543587a6a74)
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Bloodfart on January 16, 2014, 01:40:01 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.

I cut the crap out of stuff on our countertops.

miracle blade III user outed
http://www.home-ec101.com/why-are-sharp-knives-safer-than-dull-blades/
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: lopakman on January 16, 2014, 01:44:21 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.

I cut the crap out of stuff on our countertops.

miracle blade III user outed

Nope.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Fcm%2Fgoodhousekeeping%2Fimages%2Fuf%2Fwustho-classic-8-inch-cooks-knife-lgn.jpg&hash=4f5277918c7d3024b9e3c7ff8bfcc46c1a974454)

BITB when it comes to cutting.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: puniraptor on January 16, 2014, 01:45:37 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.

I cut the crap out of stuff on our countertops.

miracle blade III user outed

Nope.

(https://goemaw.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Fcm%2Fgoodhousekeeping%2Fimages%2Fuf%2Fwustho-classic-8-inch-cooks-knife-lgn.jpg&hash=4f5277918c7d3024b9e3c7ff8bfcc46c1a974454)

BITB when it comes to cutting.

Knife Brothers :D

except i dont eff mine up by gnoshing the countertop
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: CNS on January 16, 2014, 01:46:17 PM
I am no density expert but it seems like your $100 knife would appreciate being used on a bamboo cutting board more than granite countertops.  :dunno:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: lopakman on January 16, 2014, 01:48:18 PM
I have like a hundred of them so it's okay.
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: Tobias on January 16, 2014, 02:04:40 PM
I have like a hundred of them so it's okay.

:sdeek:
Title: Re: countertops thread
Post by: slucat on January 16, 2014, 02:12:13 PM
What kind of animal puts hot pans and dishes directly on a countertop all willy nilly?

The same kind that uses the counter top as a cutting board.  Unless the counter top is butcher block, in that case it's ok.

We have a cutting board built into our counter top.  Pretty sweet.  It is however, in the middle of a non-sweet laminate counter.  Soon, it will be replaced with quartz tho.