Cement floors, once primarily confined to industrial and commercial spaces, have made a significant transition into residential settings. Their durability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility make them an attractive option for homeowners and designers alike; however, to maximize their potential, cement often requires coatings or design treatments. Here are the top seven choices for coating and designing floors in Calgary that enhance their aesthetic appeal and improve their functionality and longevity.
Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy flooring in Calgary is among the most popular choices, especially in garages, basements, and commercial spaces. This type of coating provides a high-gloss finish that can dramatically enhance the appearance – and, epoxy is highly durable, resistant to chemicals, stains, and abrasion, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Additionally, epoxy coatings come in a variety of colors and can be customized with decorative chips or metallic pigments for a unique look.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a sleek, modern option that transforms a plain cement floor into a sophisticated surface; the process involves grinding the concrete to a high-gloss finish and can include the addition of dyes or stains for color. Polished concrete is highly durable and low-maintenance, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications – and, it’s also an eco-friendly choice, as it reduces the need for additional materials and coatings.
Stained Concrete
Staining concrete is a versatile option that can mimic the appearance of natural stone, marble, or even wood. There are two main types of stains: acid-based and water-based. Acid-based stains react chemically with the concrete to create rich, earthy tones, while water-based stains offer a broader color palette; meanwhile, stained concrete is a cost-effective way to add color and character to cement floors, and it can be further enhanced with a glossy sealant for added protection and shine.
Stamped Concrete
For those looking to add texture and pattern to their floors, stamped concrete is an excellent choice; this technique involves pressing molds into the wet concrete to create designs that resemble brick, stone, tile, or even wood planks.
Stamped concrete is often used in outdoor spaces like patios and driveways, but it can also be applied indoors for a unique and durable foundation – and keep in mind that the addition of color hardeners and release agents can further enhance the appearance and longevity of stamped concrete.
Microtopping and Overlays
Microtopping and overlays are thin layers of polymer-modified concrete that can be applied over existing cement floors. These coatings can rejuvenate old, worn-out spaces and provide a fresh, smooth surface; additionally, microtoppings and overlays can be customized with various colors, textures, and patterns, making them a versatile option for both residential and commercial spaces. They are particularly useful for covering imperfections and creating a seamless, modern look.
Concrete Dyes
Concrete dyes offer a vibrant and translucent color option for cement floors, because unlike stains, dyes penetrate the surface of the concrete without chemically reacting with it, allowing for more consistent and intense color.
Dyes are available in a wide range of hues and can be combined to create intricate designs and patterns, and they are typically used in conjunction with polished concrete to achieve a high-gloss, colorful finish that is both durable and eye-catching.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a composite material consisting of chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass set in a cement or epoxy binder, and the surface is polished to a smooth, glossy finish, creating a durable and decorative floor. Terrazzo is highly customizable, with endless color and material combinations, making it a popular choice for both contemporary and classic designs. It is also long-lasting and low-maintenance, ideal for high-traffic areas.
From Stamped Concrete to Epoxy Flooring in Calgary
When it comes to enhancing cement floors in Calgary, the options are plentiful. Whether you prefer the high-gloss finish of epoxy, the sleek look of polished concrete, the rich colors of stains, or the intricate designs of stamped concrete, there is a coating or design to suit every style and need. By choosing the right treatment, you can transform your space into a beautiful and durable feature that adds value and appeal to your home.
