Concreations - Bespoke polished concrete architecture

Yes we provide a full design and creation service. As we create the products ourselves we are best placed to know what can be achieved within the limitations of the material. It is also worth mentioning that as concrete is not commonly specified for work tops or indeed any interior surface, ‘high street’ designers are often unsure of the material capabilities and generally follow conventional design routes. For something more individual please call to discuss the possibilities!

do you deliver and fit?

We can often deliver and fit however this is subject to your location. Prices are calculated on location and the labour required. If your location is a long way from us it may be more cost efficient for you to unload and have a local company fit. We are always happy to advise how we recommend products are handled and fitted.

Can you renovate or remove stains from an existing product?

We have been asked to renovate other manufacturers work and have had reasonable success. We have found that success largely depends on the type of technology used in manufacture and sealing. We can remove some marks / stains / chips however this largely depends on the degree of damage caused. The best course of action is to email photos of the damage to us and we will assess whether we think we will be able help.

products

how heavy is it?

As a guide, you can calculate the volume of your surface by multiplying the width by the length by the depth (Wcm x Lcm x Dcm) using centimeters, to discover the volume in litres.

A cube of our 'lightweight' fibre concrete measuring 10cm x10cm x10cm (ie.1litre) weighs approx. 1.9kg. So W60cm x L100cm x D3cm would weigh around 34kg plus the weight of the box it is delivered in. We advise that you ensure your cabinets are well built and strong enough to take this load.

A cube of 'normal' wet cast concrete measuring 10cm x10cm x10cm (ie.1litre) weighs approx. 2.4kg. So W60cm x L100cm x D6cm would weigh around 86kg plus the weight of the box it is delivered in. Again we advise that you ensure your cabinets are well built and strong enough to take this load.

What size can you make?

The maximum 'standard' surface size for each piece is 2800mm by 1300mm or 3000mm x 1200mm. Obviously access on site will determine viable proportions, as will consideration of the total weight of the piece combined with the site route and method of handling. It may be possible to create larger pieces however other factors come in to play that should be discussed in detail in advance, please feel free to ask.

What colour does it come in?

We have 7 standard colours available as shown here.

Un-pigmented mixes are used to produce naturally coloured materials.

We also have a range of custom colours which may be mixed to your requirements subject to bespoke sample tests (charges apply).

Many factors can influence the appearance and colour, including the amount of grinding and polishing and the type of aggregate, sand and cement used.

Subject to the product chosen these colours can be un-ground or ground to expose the sand particles and/or stones.

Any samples seen/provided are to be considered guides only and are not a guarantee of the final product appearance.

What surface finish can I have?

Surface finishes from smooth polished, to rough textured are possible with varying levels of grinding* to progressively expose more aggregate. Exposed aggregate will still be smooth and polished).
(*Subject to the product chosen)

What edges are available?

Our standard edge is straight or vertical with a pencil round hand-finished corner.

What kind of sink would you suggest using?

We recommend under-mounted steel sinks, as they generally look great with the polished concrete. Sinks with square corners or small radius corners (no bigger than 10mm) are less expensive.

What splashbacks are available?

Custom splashbacks are available with a minimum thickness of 20mm. Remember to give us an idea of the height of splashback you require when asking for quotes.

Can I have a basin built-in?

It is possible to create a built in basin depending on the design of the surface and the basin. But please note if you are considering a concrete sink for the kitchen, this is a hard environment for concrete; the place where you may pour away bleaches and other acidic substances. If these were allowed to remain on the surface for a length of time before being washed away, they may etch / stain the surface.

Can I have / see some samples?

We provide small samples of our 'standard' mix designs via the post. We have a wide range of colour and product samples available for view (by appointment) at our workshop. Please ask for details.

We have a range of non-standard colour pigments which can be used to create bespoke samples for a fee.

We offer a colour mixing service for one off colours for a fee. Please ask for details.

Do you have a showroom?

Our web site and workshop are our showroom. Our workshop can be visited by appointment.

Can your products be used outside?

Yes. It is important to indicate that a product is to be used outside as we will alter the mix to reduce the risk of weathering from freezing conditions.

What special features do you do?

By choosing to use concrete as your surface material you have a huge range of possible ways you can customize your surface. If you have an idea, talk to us about it...
It is possible to have images etched or imprinted in to polished concrete or to include moulded 3D textures into the surface, even fibre optic lighting can be incorporated.

Surfaces can also include inserts such as fossils, beads, stones, glass, metal chain, plastic toys and many, many other things. The surface can be ground and polished to different degrees to create variations across the surface.

Draining areas can be custom designed.

The possibilities are only restricted by your imagination.

What else do you make?

We have produced products such as worktops, vanity tops, countertops, table tops, decorative panels, basins, baths, showertrays, reception desks, POS, seating, fire surrounds and hearths, shelves, window sills and surrounds and many others.

Purchasing

How much is it?

Prices are generally calculated on a project by project basis as we produce such a wide variety of products. For a general worktop starting price guide see below:

For worktop surfaces prices start at £350+ VAT per meter based on a depth of up to 600mm and an edge thickness of 30mm, in our Un-pigmented Natural GRC mix design with our matt sealer. There is a minimum charge of £500+VAT per order.

For one off products such as basins, baths or seating, prices are always calculated per project.
Colouring prices are calculated according to the colour selected. Knockouts for sinks, hobs, taps etc. are additional and are calculated according to the complexity of shape, whether surface or under mounted and the thickness of the surface.

Additional items such as drainers, metal rods, trivets, splash backs etc. are calculated according to design.

Templating, delivery and fitting (where applicable) are normally additional and are calculated according to location, size and weight.

Do you deliver / fit abroad?

We can deliver and fit abroad if required. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

How heavy is concrete / our product?

Wet Cast Concrete 2.4kg per ltr
• 1m square at 60mm thick will weigh about 140kg (excluding steel reinforcment)

Fibre Concrete (GRC) 1.9kg per ltr
• 1m square at 30mm thick will weigh about 60kg

MicroConcrete
• 1kg of Micro Concrete will cover approx. 2m square subject to method of application.

If you need to calculate the approximate weight of your product multiply the width x depth x thickness of the main pieces (cms) then calculate the volume of any knockout in the surface by the same method and subtract the knockout volume from the overall volume. Then multiply this number by the .Ltr weight of the selected product type above. The resulting number will be the guide weight of the product in Kg.

What info does Concreations need so I can receive an estimate?

We will need accurate dimensions (length, depth, thickness) of the surfaces required, a drawing/sketch of their layout, indicating the position, size and shape of all knockouts / inserts.

Details on surface: colour, appearance (grinding) and finish (polishing). The preferred position of joins between sections (max length 2800mm) It is worth noting that it may be necessary for us to change the layout of the joints in the surfaces. We also require the location of the project and contact details.

If you cannot answer all the questions we may still be able to provide a rough estimate but it may need to be altered later.

Will normal chipboard carcasses support the weight of your products?

Our products are often placed on to these types of standard carcass unit and we can say that we have never been told that a carcass collapsed under our tops. However as there are so many differing levels of material, manufacturing quality and construction we cannot provide any form of guarantee that they can. Generally, as long as they are well constructed, all fixed together as a single block and are of good quality they will probably be fine, but you should check with the manufacturer to be sure.

We are able to recommend how you can strengthen your carcasses. Please ask for details.

How do I organise cut-outs for sinks and hobs?

We will need an accurate template of the knockout or dimensions, prior to beginning the project. This normally comes with the product when purchased.

Do you create templates?

Yes, prices for templating are based on location and size of order.

Can I provide templates?

Yes you can. Please contact us to discuss our requirements.

Can I send you dimensions and drawings to work from?

Yes, the more accurate your work the better.

How long does it take to make?

This really depends on the specifics of the project and the workload we have at the time the order is placed, but as a guide allow between 4-7 weeks from placing the order to delivery, however you should ask when ordering as this can often be reduced.

Can I be involved in or add personal touches to the design the design?

Yes, we encourage you to think of alternative ideas and personal items to be used as inserts. That's what make it fun and why polished concrete is such a fantastic medium.

Will your branding be on the product?

Yes, 6ft high pink letters????????

use & maintenance

Will the surface stain?

Surfaces and products will be treated with a natural looking matt topical sealer to help prevent staining and for hygiene purposes. However, liquids and food stuffs should not be allowed to remain on the surface for a length of time. Some strongly coloured or oily ingredients may cause discoloration if left on the surface.

Which polish should I use?

If you require a shiny / gloss finish, a carnauba or bees wax can be used to polish a surface or product.

Regular polishing will keep your surface looking glossy and help defend against staining by creating a barrier.

There are some cleaning products which also polish. These products may also help reduce staining. Please click here for details

Is it waterproof?

Once the sealer has been applied the concrete is more resistant to water as long as the sealed surface remains undamaged. The sealer should be reapplied periodically depending on intensity of use.

How do I clean it?

Our surfaces and products should be cleaned with warm soapy water using a bleach free cleaning product such as Ecover or specialist cleaning products. Scrubbing with abrasive powders or pads is not recommended as this may dull and damage the surface sheen and sealer coating. Corrosive / solvent materials and cleaners should be avoided.

Can I cut or chop on it?

Cutting and chopping or any other abrasive action should be done on a chopping board and not directly on the surface or product.

Will it chip?

Edges / corners of the surface or product can be chipped if knocked by heavy items. Care should be taken when using heavy pots and pans. It may be possible to mend chipped or damaged items. (Please contact us for details).

Can I put hot pots on it?

Our surfaces / products are inherently heat resistant but the surface sealants used may be damaged or discolored by the heat from a hot utensil. We recommend the use of heat resistant pads or trivets.

fitting

Do you deliver?

Yes. Pricing is based on the size and weight of the products and site location. Products can be delivered by Concreations direct, courier or collected by the client.

Do you fit the surface?

We can fit the surfaces if the site is local. Pricing is based on the size of the job and site location. However we do not do the handling of the concrete on site.

How do we fit it?

The fitting process is different according to the surface thickness. Please ask for details.

How do you join two pieces?

Joints in butting surfaces are finished using silicon sealer. Joints do remain a visible feature of the surface.

terms and conditions

You can view our terms and condition here