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.

Informative videos show you the entire process used by contractors to make a glorious decorating statement. Florida homes, with huge windows and floods of light, are perfect for a sweep of gleaming stone. There are also DIY videos and instructions, if you want to do your own remodeling. Equipment needed includes grinders, edgers, and polishers, as well as the chemicals that increase density and hardness and seal the finished surface.

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.

Bacteria and mold will not grow on a floor life this with routine cleaning. Unlike tile or linoleum, there are no cracks to allow microscopic organisms to proliferate, or sections to lift and let moisture and contaminants creep underneath. The floor is easily cleaned and durable.

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.

Easy to care for, a long service life, and absolutely glorious to look at, these floors are the trend today. The online photos will inspire you and show you how beautiful polished concrete can be.




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