by Valerie Demetros
Concrete floors, long used for garages, basements and outdoor patios, have been working their way inside and making a big impact.
Indoor concrete floors are polished, etched and stained for a modern, slick look that instantly elevates the style of the home. They can be impervious to damage and cost-effective.
Here is what you should keep in mind:
Strong, durable
Concrete floors are extremely strong and hard-wearing and can last for many years. They are practically stain-proof, waterproof and give a room a sleek appearance.
They are resistant to fire, water and odors. Further, they won’t scratch easily and are easy to clean.
Eco friendly
Unlike carpeting, concrete floors won’t support the development of mold and mildew. Exposure to toxic mold in homes has been blamed for ailments ranging from headaches to severe respiratory infections.
Polished concrete floors are toxic-free because they are not treated with chemicals or sealers known to emit harmful VOCs.
Pet friendly
Smooth floor surfaces like polished concrete won’t trap pet dander, which makes it easier to clean. And admit it, Fido has his accidents even in the best of homes and concrete is much easier to clean and is less likely to stain.
Healthier
When it comes to allergies, carpeting can be one of the biggest culprits, becoming a host for dust mites, pollen and other allergens. Concrete doesn’t trap allergens and is easy to clean — meaning less sneezing.
Cost effective
Concrete floors typically cost between $2 and $20 per square foot, installed. If you want colors, polishes and etching, the cost can reach up to $300 or more.
Concrete also has a high thermal mass, helping it absorb more heat from the environment and hold it longer. This is good for cooling, since it continues to absorb heat as long as the air temperature is warmer than its thermal mass.
This way concrete floors keep a more constant temperature indoors, meaning warmer in winter and cooler in summer, saving you money on heating and cooling.
Echo, echo
Concrete floors can produce an echo effect, but no more than tile or hardwood. Of course, you can muffle the sound with area rugs, curtains, pillows and wall fabrics, which you will want to do to add softness to the room.
Hard as rock
Fragile items dropped on a concrete floor will probably break, just like on tile or wood. And walking on it can become uncomfortable. But area rugs soften the blow.
Being hard means it can also become slippery. Applying a high-gloss sealer can reduce the traction, and keeping it clean and dry minimizes the slickness.
Modern techniques have moved concrete floors from boring to luxurious.
With a huge range of colors available and surface treatments like acid stains, concrete stains and paint, you can make your floor a one of a kind. Concrete also can be stamped with stencils and etched to resemble brick or ceramic.
