Concrete’s versatility and durability make it one of the most dependable surface finishes in home construction today. Concrete is no longer saved for basements or hidden under carpets, thanks to exquisite finishing options. Today, you can achieve different concrete textures, colors, and patterns that can transform any space.
If you’re starting a new home project or are looking to improve an existing concrete surface, this guide will help you pick the ideal concrete finish. Here are nine practical tips that you can employ to achieve an outstanding concrete finish for your home project.
Define the Purpose
Your home has different surfaces requiring different concrete finishes for optimal performance. For instance, interior floors require finishes that optimize underfoot comfort, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. On the other hand, vanities and countertops in kitchens and bathrooms require appealing concrete finishes that can create outstanding surfaces unique to each space. Defining the purpose of your concrete finish before choosing one helps you know what to look for and save costs.
Understand the Different Options
Concrete finishes are available in various options for your projects. They come in different patterns, colors, and textures so that you can choose the right option for your aesthetic specifications. Some of the most common options to consider include the following:
- Polished concrete: Polished concrete is achieved when concrete is ground to a fine finish and then polished to achieve a high-gloss or reflective surface. It is ideal if you want to mimic the appearance of high-end stone or use a matte effect.
- Stained concrete: If you’re enthused by the look of natural stone or wood, stained concrete floors and surfaces are the perfect option to consider. Experienced concrete contractors like Coughlin Concrete can help you install top-quality stained concrete finishes that can fill your surfaces with unique, mottled patterns.
- Broom finish: Brooms sweep driveways and patios, but they can also be used to create a simple yet textured finish on wet concrete surfaces for a rough, non-slippery floor. Your concrete also gets a nice-looking finish that is budget-friendly.
- Stamped concrete: They allow you to imprint patterns or textures on wet concrete to replicate the materials like flagstone, wood, or brick. It’s an ideal choice for patios, walkways, or driveways.
Once you know what options work best for your specific spaces, you can accurately set a matching budget for all your concrete finishes.
Consider Durability
Some finishes, like exposed aggregate or stamped concrete, are more durable than others, making them a preferred choice for high-traffic areas. The fairly durable ones, like polished concrete, are best for low-traffic areas as they can’t withstand heavy use. Choose a finish that can accommodate the pressure of use in the installation area for optimal performance.
Check the Maintenance Needs
Concrete finishes will have varying maintenance needs, from low to regular maintenance. It’s important to consider your capability and willingness to maintain the surface as you choose your ideal concrete finish. Some of the options to consider under the various maintenance levels are:
- Regular maintenance options: If you choose textured finishes like exposed aggregate and a broom finish, you may require regular resealing and frequent cleaning.
- Moderate maintenance options: Stamped and stained concrete finishes fall under moderate maintenance as they need periodic resealing and surface cleaning to keep their appeal.
- Low-maintenance options: For low-maintenance finishes, you may want to consider epoxy coatings and polished concrete that only require periodic resealing and regular cleaning.
Check Your Budget
How much you pay for concrete finishes varies widely depending on several factors, such as the type of concrete finish and the professional you’re working with. To avoid budget upsets, it’s essential to research the costs of the various materials and complexities of installation.
For instance, decorative overlays and stamped concrete might require more work and often use more materials than other options. If you’re working with a smaller budget, simple finishes like exposed aggregate and broom finish are great considerations.
Work With a Professional
While some homeowners might feel adequately equipped to work on their concrete finish by themselves, seeking professional help is always beneficial. Professionals have the tools, experience, and mastery of specific installation and maintenance procedures for high-quality work.
They can also help you choose the right concrete finish for your location if you’re unsure what material to use for your project. Some of the essential considerations for selecting a reliable concrete contractor or designer include:
- Physical presence: It’s common for concrete contractors to maintain an online presence, portraying their services as a business while they are merely a one-man band. Working with such a business might mean winning lower costs but having to contend with a lack of organization, trust, and expertise. Choose a physically established business instead.
- Good online and offline reputation: Find out what previous and current customers say about the organization’s workmanship, experience, and expertise. These honest reviews, testimonials, and feedback can help you make the right decision when choosing a contractor.
- Availability of real samples: The presence of real samples when choosing the material for concrete finishing can help make your work easier. You don’t have to buy materials separately because your preferred contractor lacks variety. Choose a contractor that’s well-connected to a reliable manufacturer and can show you various colors and styles of coatings.
- Mastery of their processes: You know you’re choosing the right team if everyone in the team answers your questions satisfactorily and in detail. A reliable concrete contractor follows a standard process for installations and material handling to ensure your work is completed to the required quality standards.
- They work with multiple installation crews: If you meet a business representative who offers to install the surface finishes themselves, it could mean the business you’re about to work with lacks the resources to hire a skilled installation crew. An established business has multiple installation crews that can skillfully work on different concrete finish works.
Just like choosing the type of roof or the painting on your walls is important, choosing the right concrete finish for your home is crucial for its overall appeal. The right concrete finish will impact the functionality and longevity of your surfaces. By defining the purpose, understanding existing options, checking durability, maintenance needs, and budget, and working with a professional, you can choose the right concrete finish for your home. Follow these tips to give your home the best surfaces for an attractive and high-value home.
