Custom Concrete Benchtops & Table
About the product.
Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is a specialised form of concrete that is much lighter than traditional concrete. Its unique properties lead to high tensile strength and flexibility. We use this product to create high quality, functional, and aesthetic furniture, bench tops, outdoor kitchens, and more Architectural Concrete designs.
COMPOSITION
Through the use of glass and PVA fibre throughout our concrete mix, we mitigate the requirement for conventional steel reinforcement, resulting in a lighter, thinner and stronger final product. The active matrix of fibres creates a flexible and stable final product, far more resistant to cracking than conventional concrete products.
THICKNESS & WEIGHT
A 20-25mm structural layer, depending on its application, is used in all products to maintain its superior strength. Aprons or foam inserts are then used to reach the desired thickness.
Our concrete generally weighs approximately 40-50kgs per square metre.
THE NATURE OF CONCRETE
Concrete is not a homogeneous, uniform material & just like natural wood or stone, the finished concrete’s appearance will always have aesthetic variations of shade, colour and pattern.
With a little care and good judgment, our clients are able to enjoy and adore their quality pieces!
Why GFRC concrete?
Seamless design.
One key benefit of GFRC is the ability to pour over 3 metres in length without the presence of a seam. Plus you can also integrate your basin and drainage panels for a truly seamless design.
UV stable.
GFRC is UV stable which means it doesn’t degrade in sunlight. This makes it the perfect solution for your outdoor entertaining areas as not only does it look fantastic, but it will also last a life time.
Non-combustible.
GFRC is non-combustible, making it the perfect material to use for a fireplace. Concrete hearths are very practical and can be made from our many colours and finishes to compliment any space.
Colours & Finishes
Our concrete can be cast in a vast array of colours and finishes to suit your project. Whether you’re seeking an industrial look with a natural concrete texture and character or something a bit softer, talk to us today about the versatility and beauty of GFRC - Architectural Concrete.
FAQs
+ Where can I use GFRC throughout my house?
Our specially formulated concrete mix can be used for everything throughout your house from benchtops and fireplace hearths, to bathroom panels and more. The possibilities are endless.
+ Why should I choose concrete?
If you are after something that’s custom made, Architectural Concrete (GFRC) may be for you. Do you think Caesarstone and granite are too similar looking and in a lot of homes? Do you want something that feels, looks and has its own character? Do you want to set yourself away from the mainstream? Consider one of our hand-made pieces!
+ Isn’t concrete heavy?
Yes, traditional concrete is extremely heavy, but our Glass Fibre Reinforced (GFRC) alternative results in a much lighter & more practical product. This method enables us to achieve a weight of approximately 45kg per square metre & allows us to prefabricate offsite, minimising the hassle & mess created when casting on site.
+ Can colour and texture variations occur between items?
No two pieces come out the same, this ensures that our team constantly put out showstopping pieces that continue to blow our clients away with distinct patterns and textures. This can also mean that subtle colour differences can occur from samples you may have seen. This can be due to sand arriving from different quarries and cement lots or uncontrollable conditions such as outdoor humidity and temperature. We use a computer-based formula to calculate our batch quantities to within 0.01 of a gram, however, colour change can still occur due to the previously mentioned reasons.
+ Do you cast onsite?
Concreting can be a very messy process; however, all our slabs are poured in house to avoid any unwanted mess and to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for our clients.
+ Do concrete benchtops stain?
Like all stone products, concrete is extremely porous. We at Slab Culture use the best sealers available to give you excellent stain resistance and make your concrete as ergonomic as possible. However, we do still recommend you adopt a ‘clean as you go policy’ when it comes to caring for your product.
+ How does GFRC perform in extreme conditions?
All our products are UV resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures throughout the year. Being non-combustible, GFRC is perfect for your next fireplace hearth or barbeque unit, whether it is indoor or outdoor, choose our 'Architectural Concrete'.
+ Does concrete chip and crack?
Whilst our GFRC concrete is very tough and durable, it is still possible to scratch and retain everyday wear and tear. We recommend using a chopping block when cooking and avoiding knocking corners, just like you would with more traditional benchtop materials. As for cracking- standard concrete is a brittle and hard product, but our GFRC blend contains polymers and glass fibre mesh that take a brittle material and gives it incredible flexural, compressive and tensile strength all to ensure that cracks will not last a lifetime for our clients.
Visit our showroom.
If you think our products look sharp here, wait until you see them in person. Book a showroom inspection and see how our composite ‘Architectural Concrete’ designs can take your space to the next level.