If you're thinking of jumping in on the old bandwagon of trends and you're planning of getting polished concrete for your flooring, then you might want to consider some of the things that could help you decide whether this groundbreaking technique for an old material really is for you.
1. Polished concrete is maintenance free. Almost, but only because there is no material that's completely maintenance free. Although you'd be glad to know that concrete is one of those industrial stuff that can withstand plenty of wear and tear and still appear like it's new.
2. Polished concrete is relatively cheap. The actual cost is actually between the high prices of marble, slate, or ceramic tiles and more cheaper materials like vinyl tiles and carpets. But if you're considering the long run, concrete can outlast all of these materials by a hundred years and still look like it was installed yesterday.
3. Polished concrete is excellent flooring material for your home. You might start thinking conrete is too hard or too cold and damp. Well, you'll be glad to know that these trivial drawbacks can be rectified with simple solutions. Installing vapor barriers prevent moisture from migrating to the surface keeping the floor dry and radiant heating cables make sure that its warm enough for your feet. Ask your contractor about those.
4. Polished concrete is not too slippery. Actually there are many available floor conditioners which increase the friction between the floor and your feet which makes concrete, even polished ones, a lot safer. Although, if kept dry, concrete is not at all slippery to begin with.
5. Polished concrete is ugly. False! If you can see all the designs availble from talented artisans, you'd soon change your mind about concrete being too industrial. In fact, in the hands of a really skilled worker, they can even resemble marble.
So I hope these little things help you in choosing polished concrete for your floor. Although, with all the practical advantages of the material, it would be surprising if you haven't already done so.