All surfacing material requires a bit of care to protect and maintain the quality of the product and the care of concrete is no different. Care is similar to the maintenance of granite and other natural stone surfaces. Concrete is extremely durable, and with proper maintenance, will last the life of a home.

A few guidelines to follow...

• When cleaning, use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser applied with a washcloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive pads and detergents.

• Use a cutting board to avoid cutting directly onto the countertop…while it will not harm the concrete, it may leave marks in the sealant and affect the integrity of the product.

• Place hot pans on a potholder or trivet.  Again, it will not harm the concrete, but may affect the sealant.

• Clean stains with any non-abrasive household cleanser, however, avoid using agents which contain bleach. For best results, do not let spills linger, especially acidic liquids such as citrus, wine and vinegar. These types of liquids tend to erode the sealant and can potentially stain the actual concrete.  If necessary, stains can typically be removed by light sanding and reapplying the sealant.  If this process becomes necessary, KAR Construction should be consulted for specific instructions.

  Maintenance...

• To protect the sealant and to maintain a durable finish, paste waxing is recommended every three to six months or as needed.  Buffing the top will prolong its life as well as increase its shine and enhance the richness of its color.  With time and use, your countertop will develop an exquisitely warm patina.

• As with all natural stone, concrete, in it's natural unsealed state,  is porous, and prone to staining.  So it needs proper sealing to protect it from moisture and staining. A proper sealant adds resistance to oils, acids, alcohol and most foods. Re-sealing schedules are dictated by the "use and abuse" of the countertop...some may need it more frequently than others.  However, if proper maintenance is adhered to, the sealant should last 4-5 years.

• When re-sealing is needed, a topical sealer can be easily applied.  Then wax with a  paste wax to provide additional protection.