Concrete Countertops A two-part series covering forms, mixes, tools and finishes Part 2: Precast Countertops BY SUSAN BRIMO-COX

Concrete Countertop production falls into two general categories: cast-in-place and precast countertops. In the last issue of Concrete Decor, we looked at cast-in-place methods. This time we'll explore various techniques used in precasting concrete countertops.

Precasting advantages
If you prefer tight quality control, the precast method of making concrete countertops is the way to go. The environment in which you pour is controlled by you.

And if you also desire flexibility and more creative opportunity, again, go with precast.

There are other advantages to precasting, as well. "The stir-face created by precast vs. troweled concrete is a lot less permeable. [Its] easier to form overhangs and custom shapes on an inverted Pour, and it's easier to cast integral sinks and inlays in surfaces," explains Steve Eyler, owner/operator of Eycon in Myersville, Md.

Daniel Gobillot, one of the founding partners of Stone Soup Concrete in Florence, Mass., says that with precasting "you can get any shape, any size, any thickness, any color. I think its better in every Situation, unless the Piece is so massive you can't move it."