Frequently Asked Questions

GFRC stands for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete, a high-performance concrete that replaces the steel rebar and heavy aggregate of traditional concrete with millions of fine, alkali-resistant glass fibers. The result is a material with far higher flexural strength than standard concrete at a fraction of the weight: strong enough for long-span tables and wall-mounted sinks, refined enough for thin, modern profiles. Every Curated Concrete piece is hand-cast in GFRC in our Kansas City studio, then sealed for stain and water resistance.

Yes. GFRC is exceptionally durable and engineered for long-lasting use. Unlike standard hardware store concrete or sidewalk mix, GFRC uses specialized additives, fine binding matrices, and glass fibers to drastically increase flexural strength, reduce water absorption, and prevent cracking.

• Stain and scratch resistance: Our GFRC is sealed to be highly stain and scratch resistant.
• Care and maintenance: Treat your concrete like fine granite, marble, or hardwood. With basic care, high-end GFRC furniture can last a lifetime. See our Care and Maintenance guide.

Properly made GFRC does not develop structural cracks under normal use. Traditional DIY concrete cracks because it is heavy, brittle, and shrinks as it cures. GFRC's glass fiber matrix gives it several times the flexural strength of standard concrete, which is why we can cast long spans and thin profiles that stay solid for decades. Fine, non-structural hairlines can occasionally appear as part of concrete's natural character, but they do not affect integrity or water resistance.

Sealed concrete is highly stain resistant. Every Curated Concrete piece ships fully sealed against water, oil, wine, and everyday kitchen and bath spills. Like granite or marble, it is not stain proof: wipe up acidic spills such as citrus, vinegar, or wine promptly rather than leaving them overnight. With basic habits, your surface will keep its finish for many years.

Concrete itself is extremely heat tolerant, but the sealer that protects your surface is not. A hot pan straight off the burner can scorch or dull the sealer, just as it would damage a quartz countertop. Use a trivet for anything over roughly 300°F. Warm plates and mugs are no problem.

Yes. GFRC is naturally weather resistant: it will not rot, warp, or rust, and our sealers protect against moisture and UV fading. Concrete tables can live outside year-round in most climates. For pieces exposed to hard freezes or full sun, we can recommend the right sealer and care routine for your region. Browse our concrete furniture or ask us about a custom patio piece.

GFRC is significantly lighter than traditional concrete because it relies on high-strength glass fibers instead of heavy steel rebar and large aggregate.

• Average weight: GFRC typically weighs about 10 lbs per square foot at 1” thickness.
• Product weight specs: Specific weights are listed on individual product pages. For custom orders or specific dimensions, feel free to contact our studio.

Concrete undergoes a natural chemical hydration reaction during curing. This process creates unique organic variations in shade, texture, and small surface voids (pinholes). Rather than defects, these micro-imperfections give concrete its distinct visual character and raw beauty. See our Colors and Finishes page for examples of each finish.

Granite and quartz are quarried or factory-made in fixed slabs and colors; concrete is cast specifically for your space. That means seamless integrated sinks, custom colors, and shapes and thicknesses you cannot get from a slab. Durability is comparable: sealed GFRC resists stains and scratches much like natural stone, and pricing lands in the same range as high-end granite or quartz. The trade-off is character. Concrete has an artisanal, slightly organic look with subtle variation, rather than a factory-uniform surface. Explore our custom concrete countertops.

Yes! We specialize in custom concrete fabrication. Whether you need custom dimensions, a hand-drawn sketch brought to life, or a unique architectural design, we can craft it. Start a custom order or contact us with your project measurements for a quote.

Yes, we can match custom colors, including paint samples from major brands. Depending on the specific pigment and batch testing required, custom color matching may carry an additional fee. See our standard palette on the Colors and Finishes page.

Concrete samples are meant for color and texture representation.

• Sealer difference: Samples are only partially sealed to display true material color, whereas final production pieces are fully sealed for maximum stain and water protection.
• Natural variation: Because concrete is an artisanal material, subtle variations in shade, tone, and texture will occur between samples and finished products.

Because all of our concrete products are custom made to order, our standard production lead time is 3 to 6 weeks depending on the complexity of the piece. High seasonal order volumes may extend processing times. We will keep you updated on your order status throughout the curing and sealing process.

Under the 2010 ADA Standards, a compliant sink is mounted with the rim no higher than 34” above the finished floor, with at least 27” of knee clearance below, clear floor space for a forward approach, and insulated or protected drain and supply lines. Our 24” ADA Hawking wall-mounted sink is designed around these requirements, and because every piece is made to order we can cast custom ADA-compliant concrete sinks for commercial projects and accessible remodels. Always verify final requirements with your local code official. Contact us with your spec.

Yes. We regularly partner with architects, interior designers, builders, and commercial clients on everything from ADA-compliant restroom sinks to conference tables and reception counters. We work from your drawings or CAD files, provide material samples and specs, and can handle multi-unit orders. Reach out with your project scope for pricing and lead times.

• Measure access points: Ensure doorways, stairwells, and hallways can accommodate the crated dimensions.
• Consider structural support: Confirm your wall studs or vanity framing can support the fixture weight.
• Plan plumbing layouts: Verify faucet reach, drain placement, and wall-mount vs. deck-mount plumbing specs prior to casting.
• Confirm dimensions: We review final measurements with you before casting, so you are never locked in from a rough estimate.

Because every piece is custom made to order, we do not accept returns, cancellations, or exchanges once an order is confirmed. Please review your dimensions and color choices carefully before placing your order. Read our full Return Policy or email us at curatedconcreteco@gmail.com with questions prior to ordering.

Shipping depends on the size and weight of your item:

• Small items and samples: Shipped standard ground via FedEx.
• Large furniture and sinks: Shipped via freight carriers with custom crating. For detailed information on delivery, liftgate service, and freight drop-offs, please read our Shipping Details page.

If your shipment arrives damaged, notify Curated Concrete immediately at curatedconcreteco@gmail.com so we can file an insurance claim and start production on your replacement as soon as possible. All shipments are 100% insured. Please document any crate damage with photos upon delivery before signing, and see our Shipping Details page for step-by-step instructions.

All of our concrete is designed and hand-cast in Kansas City, Missouri. We ship nationwide with custom crating, and local customers in the KC metro can arrange studio pickup or local delivery to skip freight costs. Contact us to coordinate.

Day to day: warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive pads, bleach, ammonia, and acidic cleaners (including vinegar), which can wear the sealer. Use cutting boards and trivets in kitchens, and coasters under anything that might etch. No waxing schedule or special products are required for normal residential use. Full details are in our Care and Maintenance guide.

Every piece leaves our studio fully sealed; there is nothing you need to apply before use. Unlike DIY or contractor-poured concrete that needs regular resealing, our sealer system is designed for years of normal residential use. High-traffic commercial installations or heavily used kitchen surfaces may eventually benefit from a refresh, and we can advise on timing and the right product.