Concrete floors are all the rage in most public venues such as restaurants, churches and homes. Why? Most likely because concrete floors are relatively inexpensive to create, last longer than carpet, look clean, modern and sleek. Concrete floors not only look wonderful, but they are easier on the environment being the green option of choice for many home owners. 

Concrete floors are also very versatile with unlimited styles, colors and glimmers and are appealing for a number of decorating styles including Modern, Contemporary, Minimalist, Old World, Tuscan, Southwestern, Architectural, Rustic and even Traditional. 

Ways to Do Concrete Floors

These durable, distinct and easy-to-maintain floors are created in a variety of ways. Some concrete floors use more than one of the following applications: 

• Acid Stained & Dyed Concrete Floors
• Polished Concrete Floors 
• Artistic Concrete Floors

Acid Stained Concrete Floors

Acid stain is used to create the marble effect on the concrete floor. You can boost the appeal of boring grey concrete with a look of faux marble, solid colour, elegant hues or artistic designs. When combined with Polished Concrete, stained floors are all the more attractive. 

Polished Concrete Floors

Polished concrete floors reflect light making them shiny and beautiful. These beautiful floors are created with a permanent solution that reduces the need for re-application. Routine cleaning is all that is required to maintain smooth, luxurious finish. Resistant to abrasion. 

Artistic Concrete Floors

Concrete floors can garner the look of real stone without the expensive price tag. Artistic concrete floors are best left to the professional who knows what he or she is doing. Concrete floors can be artistically engraved and designed using multiple colors, styles and finishes. Concrete floors with artistic flair can be used for interiors and exteriors. 

How to Do Concrete Floors Yourself

You can do concrete floors yourself, or hire a professional. It's important to verify that the cement is properly prepared prior to staining. Many professionals recommend an overlay of cementitious material prior to staining floors that are not new construction. 

1. Purchase stain at hardware supply store. Acid stain can be dyed different colors. 

2. Protect areas surrounding floors (walls, baseboards, trim) to protect from stain.

3. Prepare the concrete according to stain manufacturer instructions.

4. Test stain on area of floor to make sure you like the way it looks.

5. Score concrete surface into desired pattern with diamond blade saw. 

6. Apply stain. Use more stain for richer color, less stain for diluted color.

7. Protect floor with sealer or polish, giving the shiny finish. 

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