Vinyl Siding Variations

Concrete is a versatile flooring material that is used for both industrial and residential applications. It is highly prized because it is so impressively durable, even when faced with heavy duty foot and vehicle traffic every day, and also because it can be stained and designed in a multitude of different colors and patterns to create a truly unique appearance on top of being functional. However, there are two main types of concrete finishing available on the market, coating and polishing. While both sound similar and perform related functions, there are actually a number of distinct differences between the two. Understanding some of the major advantages of both can help you choose the one that is the best fit for your concrete flooring.

Concrete Coating

Concrete coatings are usually made out of a mixture of synthetic materials that are applied directly on top of the concrete itself. The main benefit of concrete coatings is the fact that the coating is highly durable. It is thus able to prevent the concrete from becoming damaged by heavy vehicles, extensive foot traffic, and spilled materials and chemicals. Furthermore, the surface of the concrete coating is extremely smooth, making cleaning a very simple process—an ideal benefit that makes coatings well suited to warehouses and other industrial settings.

However, concrete coatings do not have a very wide range of different colors and customization options available, which makes them less well suited for residential purposes. Furthermore, the smooth nature of concrete coatings makes them a slipping hazard and less than ideal for areas that may experience a great deal of humidity and moisture or where young children and elderly individuals may be located.

Concrete Polishing

Concrete that is polished is focused on providing a better-looking finish over a durable one. Polished concrete can be polished in a number of different colors and is highly reflective, which makes it great for client-facing surfaces or for patios and entrances. Furthermore, polished concrete has a rougher texture when compared to coated concrete, which makes it better suited for areas with heavy foot traffic as the risk of slipping and falling is greatly reduced.

However, concrete polishing is much less durable than coated concrete and can be more easily stained by spilled liquids and chemicals. Extensive wear and tear, like from forklifts driving on the concrete, can quickly wear away at the concrete underneath since there is no protective layer. Contact companies like Haas Construction to learn more.