Are you considering concrete for your commercial floors? Concrete is a superb option for everything from restaurants to retail spaces. Not only is it durable and safe, but it’s also extremely attractive. Concrete now comes with a large number of finishing options, many of which can create a contemporary and modern space.
Stamped Concrete
Before concrete fully dries, it can be stamped with a number of designs and patterns. These designs are most frequently used outside, where it’s important to have texture to the concrete surface for it to be safe. Stamped concrete can even be done with logos, to draw people into a storefront or to make it distinct. Some concrete stamps are designed to mimic the appearance of other types of flooring, such as brick.
Epoxied Concrete
Epoxy creates a thick, glass-like coating across a concrete surface. Epoxied concrete usually isn’t as durable as just concrete, as it can be scratched and dented. However, it can create dramatically different looks that tend to have a lot of depth to them. Because the concrete is sealed, it becomes water-resistant. The concrete itself is also protected by the epoxy. Epoxies can be done in virtually any color and design.
Stained Concrete
Concrete staining can stain concrete a variety of colors without losing its rustic texture. Staining can be done in a single color or in a variety of colors to make it look even more interesting. Concrete can even be stained pitch black or bright white with the right pigments. Staining is applied to the concrete and then followed up with a sealant, which does mean that the staining can eventually wear off, and that it may show if the concrete is cracked or chipped.
Pigmented Concrete
Pigmented concrete conveys similar benefits to stained concrete. The difference is that the staining is in the concrete itself rather than on its surface. Pigmented concretes may not be able to achieve as bright or deep colors as stained concrete, because the concrete itself is being colored and has a limited amount of pigment. However, the concrete itself will be that color, so chips and cracks won’t show as drastically.
Aggregate Concrete
Suitable mostly for outdoor application, aggregate concrete includes gravel, stone, and other similar objects such as glass tiles. Aggregate concrete is generally mixed with these other products to create a unique and compelling texture. In outdoor weather, this texture can improve safety. In patios and other areas, it can simply add to the character of a place. Aggregate concrete is often combined with stamped concrete in outdoor patio areas.
Polished Concrete
When polished, concrete can create a smooth, glossy, and easy to maintain surface. Polished concrete can be combined with other types of concrete, such as stained and pigmented concrete. It’s an excellent way to get a more contemporary and modern feel while still using concrete. Polished concrete, unlike epoxied concrete, doesn’t have an additional layer of coating. Instead, the concrete itself is finished to a polish.
Etched Concrete
Similar to stamping, concrete can be “etched” after it has been laid down. Etched concrete generally involves a weak acid which is used to change the texture of some of the concrete. This creates shallow but unique designs that give subtle flair to a location.
There are many new textures, paints, tints, and other types of method of concrete finishing for any application. Nearly every business can reap the benefits of concrete flooring, which isn’t only attractive in and of itself, but can also be used to replicate other flooring options such as marble or granite. If you want to explore your concrete finishing options, contact the experts at Diamond Concrete Supply.
