Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Appreciating Florida Polished Concrete Floors

By Gregory Wilson


People are used to concrete floors in basements or garages. They expect them in warehouses and factories. However, Florida polished concrete floors have little in common with those utilitarian surfaces beyond durability. Today a floor made of this humble substance can be as glamorous as granite countertops in the kitchen and uniquely color-coordinated to your total decor. If you don't believe it, take a look at the online photos to see how homeowners are using the trendy new look.

Concrete used for flooring is still basically the same, but it has moved into an art form. Today experts blend the color into the mix of cement, sand, and binders. That means any chipping or scratching is minimized, since the color is not simply painted on. Patterns can be stamped into the surface; of course, which means the floor will be waxed to make it shine and to protect it.

There are specialty contractors who can give you a high-gloss floor, either a new one or a renovated old one. The step by step process starts with grinding the surface smooth. If you are putting in a new floor, you can choose the color and a granite-like look which comes from adding aggregate to the mix of cement, sand, fillers, and other chemicals. Check the online photo galleries to see the possibilities of bringing true glamour to your home.

To understand the process, watch the videos that show every step from beginning to end. There are many contractors who specialize in making gorgeous, impressive floors for Florida homes flooded with light from wide windows which showcase the interior. There are also DIY instructions, lists of equipment needed (grinders, edgers, polishers, sealing compounds, etc.), and how-to videos.

People have used concrete for the floors of entrance ways, kitchens, and enclosed porches for years, especially at the beach. The smoothed surface is easy on bare feet, cool on hot days, and unaffected by sand that gets tracked in. Spills wipe right up, and the flooring can be painted, sealed, or coated. Mats or rugs can be used for cushioning where needed, like in front of the stove or the sink.

Kitchens, entryways, and mud (sand) rooms often get wet. Tiles and linoleum have joints that can trap dirt and encourage the growth of micro-organisms. If the flooring lifts at all, moisture can seep underneath. The more durable, poured surface doesn't have the same problem of mold and bacteria.

The more beautiful high-gloss surfaces will not remain so indefinitely without proper maintenance. This is true for any flooring, whether wood, tile, or stone. A good contractor will protect the cement with stain-protectors and density-improving additives. However, like a granite countertop, the surface can be marred by abrasive dirt, acidic spills, and sharp objects. Care should be taken to sweep and mop often, wipe up food spills or brightly-colored juices quickly, and move furniture with care.

If your trendy new floor is installed properly, it will last far longer than most other flooring, require no more care and in many cases much less, and give you years of enjoyment. Check the online galleries to see how decorators are using this novel idea to beautify homes around the world.




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