CounterIntelligence Custom Countertops

Pat Simpson continually searches for new and innovative products that exemplify quality and affordability; Products that are unlike any other in the marketplace. One product in particular that caught Pat's attention is SHIRESTONE. In fact, Pat now has SHIRESTONE dealerships along the Gulf Coast from Ft. Walton Beach, Florida to Biloxi, Mississippi. According to Pat, "Every SHIRESTONE countertop and every backsplash truly is custom and original. No two homes will have the same countertops because we design, create, pour and color right on the job site. All countertops are poured-in-place, custom colored, heat resistant, food-safe and have absolutely no seams. Currently there is no other product in the marketplace like Shirestone."

People often ask, "Is it concrete?" The answer is, no. Shirestone is actually natural stone that has been pulverized, powdered and combined with other hardening agents to create one of the strongest and most durable surfaces available...and yet is lighter than concrete. Contoured designs are easily created and edges can be uniform profiles or have a cut stone appearance.

Shirestone is also available for your home. We can pour over brand new cabinets or, if your old cabinets are in good structural condition, we can pour over your existing countertops. For more information visit the Shirestone website or drop us a note from our Contacts page and we'll be happy to follow up with you immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these countertops concrete?
No they're not concrete. In fact, Shirestone is twice as hard as concrete and because the pour is only one-half inch thick, it's relatively lightweight. We don't use water as a liquid so Shirestone doesn't have the same cracking characteristics as concrete, but rather a beautiful stone finish.

What about seams?
There are no seams at all. Because we form and pour Shirestone right on the jobsite, we can pour curved edges and virtually any angle without any seams.

Can there be less texture?
During the texturing phase of our installation we can be less or more aggressive when creating the texture. We refrain from slick finishes because it reduces our coloring capabilities and the natural stone look is lost.

Because of the surface texture, aren't they hard to clean?
Absolutely not. While the texture appears to be deep and rough, in reality it's not. The tops are resistant to staining and most any non-abrasive cleaners may be used to clean the countertops.

Are the countertops porous?
No. The last step of the installation process is applying the sealer. Our sealer is one of the hardest and most durable sealers available anywhere, and once we apply the sealer, it's completely non-porous.

How often do the countertops have to be sealed?
Only once and that's when we install them. For outdoor applications we recommend sealing every 3 years, and it's a very simple procedure.

Will heat damage the countertops?
Shirestone tops are extremely heat resistant, food safe, and ideal for residential and commercial applications.

How long is the installation process?
We can finish a kitchen installation in five days, and remember, there is no
off-site prefabrication. Shirestone is poured in place on the jobsite.

What about different color options?
Another huge advantage with Shirestone is the unlimited coloring capability. Decorators and designers are excited that virtually any color can be created to go with any color scheme used for decorating.

Aren't Granite Countertops Cheaper?
Granite is still a popular option for countertops and it varies in price, from $35 to over $200 per sq. ft.. Lower grade granite slabs can be purchased for around $40 per sq. ft., but often times the seller adds fees for plumbing cut outs and edge/profile upgrades. By the time a $35 psf granite installation is complete, it may end up costing upwards of $75 psf. Unlike granite, SHIRESTONE offers one price, no seams, and virtually any color.

Does SHIRESTONE crack or chip and is it repairable?
SHIRESTONE is extremely durable and strong. It's an excellent performer under normal everyday use, whether residential or commercial. Cracking is very rare unless guidelines immediately following installation are not followed. If heavy objects are dropped on edges or corners, chips may occur, BUT, another beauty of SHIRESTONE is that it is truly repairable. Any cracking is covered by a warranty and chips may be easily repaired by the end user.

Can SHIRESTONE be used outdoors?
Absolutely! Outdoor kitchens, BBQ areas, outdoor tables and fire pits are all excellent options for SHIRESTONE. And because the product is sealed, it's protected from the elements of weather.

What are some other uses for SHIRESTONE?
Fireplace surrounds, mantles, backsplashes over countertops and over stoves, corbels, medallions for accent pieces, themed tiles, and many other accessories and components.