4 Myths (and the Truth) about Caring for Concrete Floors

When you’re in the market for new flooring options, one worthwhile material that homeowners and commercial property owners should consider is concrete. Yes, concrete! Today’s solutions and techniques make this material highly adaptable and attractive for a wide range of uses, including flooring.

So, what’s stopping you from investing in concrete floors? Perhaps you have a few misconceptions about how versatile and appealing this low-maintenance, long-lasting option can be. Here are some reasons that concrete is well worth investing in for your floor surfaces.

What People Get Wrong About Concrete 

One of the main reasons property owners don’t give enough credit to concrete is that they make some mistakes about what concrete can actually achieve.

Perhaps you’ve believed one or more of these myths about this material?

Myth #1: Concrete Is Just Glorified Cement 

Thinking concrete and cement are the same thing? Think again! While cement is a binding material that holds materials together (something you’ll see between bricks or stones, for example), concrete is much more than that. 

Concrete is a mixture of gravel, sand and crushed stones that makes it handy for building all sorts of durable surfaces. Because it can contain various types of stones, it can actually be customized to create a unique look for your flooring.

Myth #2: Concrete Is Bound to Crack 

While concrete can crack, there are ways to lower the likelihood that this problem occurs. A reliable, knowledgeable concrete company will be able to assess and level out the area where the flooring is to be poured.

Of course, buildings also settle and shift as soil expands and contracts, which can result in cracked concrete. If this happens to you, there are solutions — from applying a crack-filling sealant to a whole new pour — depending on the circumstances.

Myth #3: Concrete Doesn’t Require Special Treatment 

Some property owners assume that with concrete, there’s no need for upkeep once the surface is poured and hardened. That’s not the case. Like any material, concrete needs care.

The good news is that concrete is a lot more durable that other flooring materials, so it lasts longer and requires less upkeep. It doesn’t rot like wood or wear down as fast as linoleum.

Rather than having to constantly polish it, add stain, and replace broken parts, concrete’s life can be extended by a few simple steps, such as sweeping and mopping up dirt. Gentle cleansers can be used to remove stains.

Myth #4: All Concrete Floors Are the Same    

There are actually different types of concrete and additives that can make up your flooring. And there are many sealants and finishes that can be applied.

So, as you plan to care for your concrete floors, take time to learn about your flooring’s specific maintenance needs. Using the right treatments for your unique property will go a long way toward giving you lasting performance from your concrete surfaces.

How to Keep Your Concrete Floor Well Cared For   

So, now that you know the myths property owners get caught up in when it comes to concrete maintenance, let’s talk about how to ensure you get the longest life from your concrete floors. Follow these steps for simple, effective upkeep:

1. Tidy Up Gently Every Day 

While concrete is durable, it needs care just as much as any other material. Fortunately, though, the maintenance is easier if you simply tidy up regularly. 

• Sweep your concrete floor daily to remove dirt and debris that could otherwise create scratches or stains. 
• Wipe up spills immediately. 
• Try not to track in ice-melt (which bores into concrete).
• When washing the floor, use environmentally safe cleansers designed specifically to be gentle on concrete.

2. Polish Once or Twice a Year 

With regular use, your concrete flooring will begin to lose its attractive sheen. To address that, work with a company experienced in handling concrete and have them perform a polish. 

• Be sure you choose a cleaning company that has the right expertise and proper equipment for the job.
• Consider asking your concrete installer (like us!) for recommendations on how to properly polish your floors so they last. 

3. Apply Sealant and Perform Refurbishing Every 4-7 Years 

Heavy foot traffic can wear away at the protective finish on your flooring, making your concrete vulnerable to damage. A fresh coat of sealant can smooth out minor scratches and give your flooring new life.

• As with yearly polishing, sealant applications require expertise and proper technique to be effective. 
• Special equipment is also needed, so it may be worth talking to a concrete company (like ours) to handle this care professionally.

Discover the Benefits of Concrete Flooring for Your Property   

Concrete floors are attractive and simple to care for, making them an appealing choice in many instances, from commercial buildings to creative residential uses.

Our team at R&M Concrete will be happy to provide you with an assessment of your space, and a clear proposal for concrete pouring services to benefit your Tulsa area property.