The best solution for mopping floors depends on the type of floor you have, but a good all-around or multi-purpose DIY floor cleaner is 2 cups of warm water, 5 to 10 drops of liquid dish soap, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This is safe to use on tile, laminate, wood, polished concrete, vinyl, and more, as it’s relatively neutral and lacks caustic and abrasive chemicals that could be harmful to children and pets. You can also use a multi-purpose commercial cleaner, but make sure to follow the directions for safety.
There are many benefits to hiring a professional floor cleaner. First, these flooring pros know the right chemicals for your flooring type, which is essential for its longevity. Likewise, they have the proper deep-cleaning equipment, which is often more complex than a mop or broom. Not only that, but deep cleaning your floors can be a time-consuming process, and by hiring a professional, you can spend that time on other home improvement projects.
Commonly used in garages, epoxy is a synthetic resin coating that goes over the top of concrete surfaces. If you’re deciding between polished concrete and epoxy flooring, the best choice depends on your needs and personal preference. Epoxy is durable and highly customizable, while polished concrete tends to require less maintenance. They’re both long-lasting with similar price points, and professional installation is recommended for each.
Most experts agree that the best thing with which to clean epoxy floors is a diluted mixture of ammonia and warm water. You can also use mild dish soap diluted with warm water or a degreaser (such as Simple Green or Goof Off) diluted with warm water. Some soap-based cleaners can leave a haze. If you notice this, further dilute the mixture with water or use a different detergent that does not leave a film. You should never use harsh cleaning chemicals, any type of acidic compound (such as vinegar or citrus-based cleansers), or harsh scrubbers like steel wool or hard bristle brushes.
Polishing a concrete floor isn’t as expensive as it sounds—it’s actually one of the more budget-friendly upscale flooring options out there. On average, it costs $4,500, with most projects falling between $1,000 and $8,000 . When you’re working with an existing slab of concrete, you skip material costs entirely, so it’s even more affordable. If you want a glossy, durable floor without paying hardwood or tile prices, polished concrete delivers serious shine without the sticker shock.
The Busby, MT homeowners’ guide to floor polishing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Polished concrete floor costs depend on the size of the area you’re targeting and the style of concrete floor. Our guide breaks down all the cost factors.
It’s impossible to keep floors damage-free over the years. Thankfully, the cost to refinish hardwood floors is far less than the price tag to replace them altogether.