(Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) consists of high strength glass fibers embedded in a cementitious matrix. In general, fibers are the principal load-carrying members, while the surrounding matrix keeps them in the desired locations and orientation, acting as load transfer medium between them.

The GFRC method reduces material consumption by using 1/3 less material with no steel needed. GFRC countertops are lighter and stronger allowing for larger, seamless castings. Integral sinks can be cast without a back form.

Time savings is key—projects can be de-molded 24 hours after casting. An entire project can be turned around from template to installation within 72 hours.

A GFRC countertop with a 2" edge face will weigh 9 lbs./s.f. By comparison, a standard 2" thick "wet cast" countertop will weigh approximately 23 lbs./sf.  

¾" thick.

The longest runs have been up to 20 ft. long.

GFRC is less forgiving to errors in the mix design than standard wet cast methods. Wet cast countertops will be easier to mix and pour. The GFRC method is a more technical mix design—there is more detail to the chemistry of the concrete mix required to successfully achieve the benefits of a GFRC countertop.

When scheduling with your client and depending on the size of the project, you should allow 2 weeks to ensure you have enough time that considers recasting the project and allows for any unforeseen scenarios. However, a standard 8'-0"L x 3'-0"W x 1-1/2"T project can be turned around within 72 hours from template to install if needed.

Marbled, polished, acid stain, sand blasted and exposed aggregate surface finish textures can be achieved.

In some cases you may need a ¾" subdeck for drop edges.

When sealed with the CHENG Concrete Countertop Sealer the maintenance will be the same as for a "wet cast" countertop.

Yes, 1/3 less material used than standard wet cast countertops and no steel reinforcing is required.

Acrylic polymer, chopped glass fiber, #30 silica sand, Portland cement and water reducing admixtures.

Pro-Formula, Acrylic Slurry, Sealer, Wax, Sink Knockouts, Base Pigments, and any of the related forming supplies like Pro-Form and trivet strips.

In addition to standard wet cast tools and equipment, you will need a stand mixer, hopper gun and air compressor. The internet and Home Depot are good sources for these tools and equipment.

Three separate mixes: a face coat, an SCC (self-consolidating concrete) back coat, a dropdown and sink mix.

If you are already making concrete countertops, the additional investment will be somewhere between $1000 and $2500 for a stand mixer, hopper gun and air compressor.

Pricing per s.f. could range $85 - $110 depending on varying local or regional markets.

Depending on the market and availability, material costs tend to fluctuate between $2.50 - $3.50 per s.f. for a 1-½" thick countertop.

Fireplaces, BBQs, window and door trims, window sills, showers, tubs, columns, signage, wall cladding, floor tiles, hoods, and tables.

Concrete countertop contractors, skilled craftsmen, carpenters, tilesetters, stone fabricators, concrete masons, and any building professional interested in working with and understanding GFRC applications.

Previous concrete countertop experience, basic carpentry or mold-making skills is required for successful participation in the GFRC Countertop Training.