General Questions about Zerocrete
What exactly is Zerocrete?
Zerocrete is an innovative and sustainable alternative to traditional concrete. It is a high-performance material crafted by upcycling cement and cement alternatives with landfill-bound waste, specifically non-recyclable plastics, fabrics, and glass. The result is a strong, versatile, and eco-friendly material used for everything from building construction to luxury furniture.
Is Zerocrete as strong and durable as traditional concrete?
Yes. Zerocrete is engineered to offer comparable or even superior strength and durability to traditional concrete. Our material has undergone extensive testing to ensure it meets high-performance standards for a wide range of applications, offering excellent resistance to wear and tear.
What are the main environmental benefits of using Zerocrete?
The environmental benefits are significant. By choosing Zerocrete, you are:
- Diverting Waste: Actively preventing tons of plastic, fabric, and glass from ending up in landfills.
- Reducing CO2 Emissions: Our process uses significantly less cement than traditional concrete, cutting our carbon footprint by up to 85%.
- Conserving Natural Resources: Reducing the need to quarry virgin materials like sand and stone.
Can you see the recycled materials in the finished product?
Yes, and this is a unique part of Zerocrete’s beauty. Depending on the finish, you can see flecks of coloured glass, subtle fibres from textiles, or polished plastics that create a unique, terrazzo-like effect. Each piece has a unique character that tells the story of its restorative origins.
Where are Zerocrete products made?
Zerocrete is a proudly South African company. All our materials and products are developed and manufactured at our facility in Cape Town, Western Cape.
Precast Furniture & Home
Is Zerocrete furniture suitable for outdoor use?
Absolutely. Our material is engineered to be highly durable and weather-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor furniture like tables, benches, and firepit sets. It is designed to withstand the elements while retaining its structural integrity and beauty.
How heavy is Zerocrete furniture compared to regular concrete furniture?
This is one of Zerocrete’s key advantages. Our furniture is significantly lighter than pieces made from traditional concrete: up to 50% lighter in many cases. This makes the furniture easier to transport, move, and position in your home or garden.
How do I clean and care for my Zerocrete furniture?
Caring for Zerocrete is simple. For general cleaning, we recommend using a soft cloth with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or acidic cleaning agents, as these can damage the sealed surface. For specific care instructions, please refer to the guide provided with your product.
Can I order a custom piece of furniture?
Yes. Bespoke design is at the heart of our Furniture & Home division. We collaborate closely with clients, designers, and architects to create custom furniture and decorative items tailored to your specific vision, dimensions, and finish requirements.
How do I place an order for furniture?
You can start the process by contacting our sales team through the contact form on our website or by emailing us directly at sales@zerocrete.co.za. Whether you are interested in a piece from our launch collection or a fully custom project, we are ready to assist you.
What kind of waste do you use? Can I supply my own?
We specifically use non-recyclable, post-consumer plastics, fabrics, and glass that would otherwise be destined for landfills. Our process requires these materials to be processed to specific sizes and standards to ensure the structural integrity of the final product. For this reason, we are unable to accept waste materials from individual clients for inclusion in their products.
Is Zerocrete more expensive than other materials?
The cost of Zerocrete is competitive and depends on the specific product, design complexity, and finish. While it may be priced higher than some mass-produced, less durable options, it offers significant value through its longevity, unique aesthetic, and profound environmental benefits. For bespoke furniture, its price is comparable to other high-end, custom-crafted materials.
What is the lead time for a custom furniture order?
Lead times vary depending on the complexity and scale of the project. Once the design is finalized, a typical custom furniture piece can take between 2 to 4 weeks to craft, cure, and finish. Our sales team will provide a more accurate timeline when you place your order.
Are Zerocrete countertops and tables food-safe?
Yes. All Zerocrete surfaces intended for kitchen use, such as countertops and dining tables, are sealed with a high-quality, food-safe, non-toxic sealer. This creates a durable, non-porous surface that is safe for food preparation and everyday contact.
Do you ship internationally?
We are currently focused on serving the South African market, with an established export channel to the USA. However, we are expanding our global footprint with new partnerships and channels, and welcome enquiries for international projects. Please contact our sales team to discuss shipping options, feasibility, and potential costs for your specific location.