When it comes down to options, polished concrete has emerged as an attractive and sustainable alternative to traditional materials. Diamond polished concrete floors with their smooth appearance and durable character have become popular in residential and commercial spaces but, before making a decision, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of polished concrete and to compare traditional flooring options to find the best fit for your needs.
Pros of Polished Concrete:
Sleek Aesthetic Appeal: Polished concrete flooring offers a modern and simple aesthetic, adding a touch of luxury to any space. The glossy finishes reflect both natural and artificial light, and enhances the overall mood of the room. You can choose your exposure of stone, from a Salt and Pepper, through to a full stone exposure.
Durability: Your polished concrete is extremely durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, offices and residential homes
Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional flooring, which requires constant maintenance, polished concrete is relatively easy to clean. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping using a microfibre mop is usually enough to keep it looking immaculate.
Cost-Effective: Having diamond polished concrete on your floor eliminates the need for additional flooring materials such as that you need for wood or carpet, which can reduce the overall installation and maintenance cost in the long run
Cons of Polished Concrete:
Cold and Hard: While polished concrete can be eye-catching, it lacks the warmth and cushioning that soft materials like carpet or wood provide. Area rugs or floor mats can help alleviate this issue.
Initial Installation: Installing polished concrete floors requires grinding and polishing, which can be noisy and time-consuming. It is important to plan for this disruption that may occur during installation.
Limited Design Options: While polished concrete can be stained or coloured to achieve different types of look, the process is still limited compared to traditional flooring options like hardwood or ceramic tile
Pros of Traditional Flooring:
Variety of Styles: Custom flooring comes in a wide variety of styles, shapes and materials, allowing you to customize the look of your space
Comfort: Soft flooring materials such as carpet and hardwood floors provide a more comfortable underfoot experience, making them desirable in areas where you spend a lot of time standing or walking
Insulation: Traditional flooring can provide excellent heat and sound insulation, making the environment more comfortable and tranquil.
Cons of Traditional Flooring:
Maintenance Challenges: Traditional flooring options often require more maintenance to prevent stains, scratches and wear and tear over time.
Higher Costs: With conventional flooring materials the initial installation and maintenance time can be greater compared to polished concrete.
In conclusion, both polished concrete and traditional flooring have advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the decision depends on your aesthetic preferences, the specific needs of your space, and your budget. If you’re looking for a modern, low-maintenance solution, polished concrete could be a good fit. Contact us for a free quote – we have reps that cover Auckland, Tauranga, Rotorua, Hamilton, New Plymouth and Wellington – freephone 0508 694 746 or Glen 021434199; for South Island – Queenstown, Wanaka, Christchurch, Lakes and Dunedin, Mike 0277556672 or read more about our services here