When you want to increase the quality and appeal of your kitchen, consider your flooring options carefully. Concrete flooring is currently one of the top materials to use in this space due to its durability and customization properties. If you’re ready to jump in and add concrete in your custom home, there are a few things to consider first. Let’s explore them.

What is Concrete Flooring?

Concrete floors consist of a binder, water, and filler. It is considered to be a natural material. Portland cement is commonly used, but you may also have slag cement or fly ash. Crushed glass, sand, river stones, and gravel are often used for the filler.

All Weather Concrete Floors

Residents who live in warm climates can benefit with the use of concrete flooring because it doesn’t absorb heat and will help the interior setting stay cooler throughout the year. Adding heating elements into the subfloor is a great way to keep your custom kitchen comfortable in the winter months. This makes it a popular choice in Solon, where summer temperatures can climb quite high while winters often feel frigid. It’s also easier to clean due to its flat surface area. The material is incredibly durable in high traffic areas, meaning you won’t have to rely on the use of rugs or worry about it wearing down over time.

Photo by Alair Homes SolonSearch kitchen pictures

Style

When installing concrete floors in your Alair Homes Solon property, you can create an industrial look that is modern and sleek. It can also be used in midcentury modern and farmhouse-style homes, because of the versatility of the material. Concrete pairs well with reclaimed wood, steel accent plates, fir wood, and brass materials.

Customization

Concrete floors are easy to customize with a variety of natural color shades available, which includes browns, greens, and grays. The concrete can also be engraved if you want to add decorative features that enhance the design of the room.

Durability

Concrete has a high level of durability. It can last a long time, even over several decades, without much upkeep or maintenance. The material doesn’t scratch or scuff easily. The floor’s durability is also influenced by the amount of rebar that is used in the subfloor during construction. In many cases, the concrete can last the lifespan of the house. However, it is worth noting that it can be expensive to remove if you want to install a new material in the future.

Water Resistance

You’ll need to have the floors sealed to prevent damage caused by moisture. The sealant will also prevent dust from being released by your new floors.

Underfoot Feel

Although many people feel that concrete floors are hard to walk on when barefoot, you can add a touch of comfort with area rugs or runners that are used throughout the space. Adding mats underneath the rugs can also add extra padding. Concrete that is sealed with an acrylic sealer feels similar to walking on tile, and concrete that is sealed with an epoxy coating has a similar feel to linoleum.

Knowing what to expect when installing concrete on your kitchen floors helps you to prepare for the process. Considering durability and care standards for concrete makes it possible to understand the best places for this material. If you think concrete floors might be a good choice in your custom home, contact your Alair Homes Solon project manager to discuss this feature.