Get matched with top epoxy flooring pros in Saint Michael, ND

Polished concrete gets its glass-like finish from several rounds of polishing, using increasingly finer grit diamond grinding pads. The concrete’s hardness will determine which grits you need to get your desired finish. The densifier and sealer also contribute to the look of the final floor, so either talk to a concrete pro (or hire one) to achieve the right concrete floor finish.

While there is a lot to like when it comes to epoxy flooring, there are some disadvantages for you to consider. For one, this flooring gets very slippery when wet, which means that it might not be the best option for homes with young children and older adults. Using an anti-slip coating can help.

Also, the installation period requires a long curing time of several days. Wet epoxy also releases strong smells during this curing period, which requires proper ventilation and safety gear.

Concrete can take years to fully settle, but interior concrete floors are mostly settled after a year. Shifting and settling can occur throughout your home’s life, but most major settling happens the first few years after the concrete is poured. It’s not uncommon for minor cracks to appear in concrete floors over time—check with a concrete pro to ensure new cracks don’t indicate a structural issue in your home.

Acid-based concrete stain is generally considered the best option because it lasts about four times as long and penetrates the deepest into concrete to give richer, full-bodied colors. If you prefer more vibrant colors, though, many water-based concrete stains are available that could provide a solution you can't find from earth-toned acid-based solutions.