Concrete is among the most versatile building materials used in today's construction industry. Perhaps this versatility is best seen in the various decorative flooring options available to a homeowner looking to invest in a concrete flooring system. The decorative concrete flooring options available include acid-stained concrete, stamped overlays and knockdown concrete systems.
This article discusses three benefits associated with the use of acid-stained concrete on residential flooring systems.
Water/Moisture Resistance
Water resistance is an important quality to consider when choosing between different residential flooring materials or systems. Exposure of residential flooring systems to water or moisture can have devastating effects. For example, wooden floor tiles that are exposed to moisture over an extended duration will often rot and warp. The presence of moisture on a carpeted residential floor encourages the growth of mould and mildew.
Acid-stained concrete floors have commendable resistance to the potentially damaging effects of exposure to moisture. This is because the stained surface of the concrete acts as a protective barrier that prevents the penetration of moisture/water into the internal structure of the flooring system. Thus, chances that water or moisture will get into direct contact with the concrete in the flooring system are minimal.
For this reason, acid-stained concrete floors are commonly installed in residential basement areas where chronic dampness is the norm.
Better Air Quality
The quality of air inside a residential building is often compromised by the presence of one or more of the following contaminants:
- Allergens: These include pet hairs, pollen grains, dust and mildew
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are found in artificial building materials such as varnishes and composite wood products.
Unlike carpeted floors that "hide" allergens, the smooth surface on an acid-stained floor makes it easy for a homeowner to notice the presence of allergens on the flooring system. Thus, allergens can be eliminated from the flooring system before they're circulated in the indoor air.
Also, acid-stained concrete floors have a low VOC content as compared to other flooring options such as vinyl tiles and floor tiles made of wood.
Reduced Heating And Cooling Costs
The installation of an acid-stained concrete flooring system can lead to a reduction in residential heating and cooling costs. Acid-stained concrete floors will absorb and store heat from the atmosphere. This heat is then released slowly into the atmospheric air inside a room.
This helps to moderate the fluctuation of indoor temperatures, which reduces the need for air conditioning around the house. Thus, the homeowner gets to save on the cost of residential heating and cooling.
An acid-stained concrete floor might be a worthwhile investment.
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