When some people think of concrete they think of something that is dull, gray, heavy, featureless and strictly utilitarian. But technology has improved so much when it comes to fabricating concrete. Stolid expanses of gray no longer have to be the case. Indeed, concrete technology has advanced so much that it’s a perfectly good option for a beautiful kitchen floor.

How to Install Concrete Flooring

Unlike other floors, the best way to install a concrete floor is to pour it into place while the house is being built. The floor is then stained to the colour of your choice to create the look and feel you are after in the room. Another thing to consider about concrete flooring is that the subfloor will need to be strong enough to bear its weight. This works best in a room that’s built right above the foundation slab. If the concrete floor is installed later on, the contractor will need to be sure that the subfloor is strong enough to hold it.

Another way to have concrete for a floor is to strip away any flooring above the concrete slab. Then, refurbish it until it’s aesthetically pleasing enough to be the main floor.

The homeowner needs to be sure that this type of floor is what they want. Concrete is expensive to take up if they get tired of it. While different materials can be put on top of it, the extra height of a new floor may interfere with appliances and custom cabinetry at the floor level.

Temperature

Winters are often frigid in Edmonton, so it is important for a homeowner to know is that cold does tend to linger on concrete. A cost effective way to combat this is with the use of floor mats. Another way is to install radiant heating beneath the floor itself. Indeed, in the case of concrete, the coils or tubes that deliver the heat are installed within the concrete as it’s poured. Homeowners who have floors heated this way claim there is nothing like it: the heat is sensuous beneath the bare feet, completely silent and energy efficient. Radiant heat systems are also nearly maintenance free.

Photo by Alair Homes EdmontonMore kitchen photos

Must Concrete Floors be Gray?

Concrete floors do not have to be gray, though there is nothing wrong with the colour and its many shades. Nowaday, concrete can be stained or dyed a rainbow of colors to complement or contrast with the kitchen’s overall colour scheme. Stains can be acid-based or water-based, and they both penetrate the floor’s surface to produce permanent, vibrant color. Acid stains actually work chemically with the concrete’s calcium hydroxide. Dyes do not work chemically with the concrete but add rich, translucent colors. Many fabricators use dyes and stains together when it comes to concrete floors.

A homeowner can have filler such as pebbles, sea glass and sea shells added to the concrete. Before it cures, it can be stamped to resemble brick or even wood and engraved.

How to Take Care of Concrete Flooring

Concrete flooring is porous, so it needs to be sealed. Some experts recommend that a layer of paste wax be added. After that, it needs to be mopped every week or so with a pH-neutral cleaner and warm water. If it’s waxed, all it needs is plain, lukewarm water.

After its sealed, concrete is amazingly durable. It won’t be scratched by dropped plates or utensils or skittering animal claws. Ideally, it should last at least as long as the house.

Concrete floors provide a modern look and a durable finish. If you are interested in them for your custom home, have a discussion with your Alair Homes Edmonton general contractor. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about their benefits and the other flooring options available for your custom home.