Often thought of as more of a garage staple or as a good choice for a basement floor, concrete is taking a beautiful and well-deserved turn in other areas of the home. Nowadays, concrete does not have to have the cold, primal look that many people associate with this hard, gray material. Instead, concrete can be decorated, colored and laid in such as way that most guests would have a hard time guessing that concrete was the flooring of choice in the home. In particular, concrete may be a smart choice for a kitchen. These questions and answers will give homeowners a chance to decide if this option is right for them.
How Is Concrete Used for a Kitchen Floor?
Concrete is laid in kitchens much as it is in garages. Concrete is usually made from cement, water and a filler, such as gravel or sand. Depending on the type of cement and the type of filler used, the concrete floor could take on a variety of different looks. However, the key difference in a concrete floor used inside the home and a concrete floor in the garage is the finish.
How Do Concrete Floors Look?
Concrete flooring in the home is often finished with an acid stain to create a beautiful color, or pigments may be added to the concrete while it is still wet. A concrete floor may be colorful, plain or stone-like. It can be finished with a metallic coating or can be saw cut to appear as multiple slabs. To finish off the floor, the concrete will be polished thoroughly with a 100-grit pad and sealed. This alone can take up to a week.
What Are the Benefits Of Concrete Flooring?
Concrete floors have many benefits. They are generally strong and resist stains when sealed properly. Once polished and sealed, the floor should not require much maintenance over the years. In fact, a well-laid floor can last between 50 to 100 years. Plus, homeowners who are worried about volatile organic compounds typically found in vinyl, carpeted or hardwood floors will not have to worry about this with concrete.
Are There Any Cons to Concrete Floors?
Installation can take up to several weeks depending on the finish. Concrete floors can also be chilly without the right heat source and can be chipped if heavy items are dropped on them. If it is not stalled correctly by a professional, the floor may eventually crack.
When Is Concrete a Good Choice?
Concrete is a good choice for homeowners who are looking for a modern, customized kitchen. Homeowners should have plenty of time to spare for installation. However, this is an excellent option for busy families who want a one-of-a-kind look, such as a stained or stamped floor.
Concrete flooring can be a wise choice for many homeowners who are remodeling their kitchens or who are building new homes. However, this choice should be made carefully after examining the room and after a long discussion with one’s contractor. Homeowners who choose Alair Homes Rosedale Toronto will be able to have an honest talk with a professional who knows exactly what type of flooring would be best based on home design, use of the room, budget and other variables.