Frequently Asked Questions

What is the construction process of a concrete vanity top, benchtop or hearth?

We start by taking a template and then form-up a shape from the template. Concrete is then poured into the frame and it is left to cure for approximately 10 days.  Once cured we remove the form work, slurry the concrete, grind to make smooth and coat with either a penetrating or urethane sealer, we then deliver and install.  This process takes from 4 - 6 weeks depending on the size of the job and detail of the project.

What finish can I have?

• All concrete products, despite the finish, are delivered sealed.
• A smooth plain finish (this is not ground or honed so you do not see the concrete's aggregate).
• A honed finish (this is ground and honed and can result in a salt and pepper finish which is a light grind to a deeper grind exposing more aggregate).
• A coloured concrete that with either a plain or a ground finish.
• Additives such as Paua shell or glass can be added to the concrete however can only be seen properly if the concrete is honed.
• Square edges with a slight aris

What is the difference between honed concrete and plain concrete?

The process of polishing concrete exposes the pebble or chip aggregate in the concrete and the Paua shell or glass if used. This process is more expensive but the results are stunning. A plain finish does not expose the aggregate therefore achieving a natural plain, but very smooth finish.

Where and who do you supply to?

Custom Concrete Ltd is based in Auckland and supplies concrete products and services within the Auckland area. We are happy to supply outdoor furniture (whereby a template is not required) to areas outside of Auckland but should goods get damaged in transit the risk will rest with the end-user.  We work with architects, landscape designers and also deal with the public directly.

Is provision made for a sink or hob?

Definitely. You can choose to have your sink flush, top or under-mounted and it is standard practice to top-mount hobs. We advise that a plumber silicone the sink into place once your concrete benchtop has been installed.

What sealer will be used on my concrete product?

There are two types of sealer that can be used on concrete.  A penetrating sealer which is absorbed into the concrete resulting in a more natural and less glossy finish. The second option is a urethane sealer which is a topical application.  We recommend kitchen benchtops be sealed with a urethane to avoid staining.  A penetrating sealer is used generally on hearths, bathroom vanities and outdoor furniture when wear and tear is less frequent.

Will my Bench top or Hearth crack?

Unfortunately concrete products do crack from time to time and we cannot guarantee this will not happen to your concrete product, however we have methods in place to minimise this.  Cracking tends to occur in bench tops that are large in size and those that have a gap where the sink or hob goes. For smaller more solid pieces of concrete cracking is unlikely to occur.

Do you custom-make outdoor furniture?

Yes we do, in fact much of our work is based on what the customer would like for their own environment.  Our generic tables are 2400mm L x 900mm W but this can be altered as most of our products are made to order.

What are the sizes of the bench seats?

• 450mm height x 450mm deep x 1500mm long (large)
• 450mm height x 450mm deep x 1200mm long (medium)
• 450mm height x 450mm deep x 600mm long (small)