5 Benefits of Concrete Flooring in Norwalk Homes

Exceptional Durability & Longevity

Concrete flooring has unparalleled durability and significantly outperforms all other flooring materials, including hardwood, carpet, and tile. A properly installed concrete floor can last well beyond 100 years with regular maintenance. Damage from heavy furniture, pet claws, and extremely high foot traffic is virtually nonexistent on properly finished concrete floors.

The incredible strength of concrete also allows it to withstand numerous types of damage that afflict other flooring materials, including scratching, denting, and damage caused by impact. This type of durability is especially beneficial to residents who have high-traffic areas in their home, such as kitchens, living rooms, and entrance ways. In addition, concrete is impervious to moisture, which means that it will not warp or buckle as hardwood flooring does in damp conditions.

Benefits of Structural Integrity

Concrete flooring not only serves as the finished floor but also serves as the structural base for the floor, thus eliminating the need for a sub-flooring system. This dual function simplifies the installation process and minimizes the cost of materials. Due to the monolithic nature of concrete, it will not “move” or “squeak” like traditional flooring systems do over time.

Concrete flooring is also an asset for properties located in seismic areas, such as Norwalk. During earthquakes, the mass and strength of concrete provide structural stability to buildings. Professional installation techniques ensure that the concrete has adequate reinforcement and that expansion joints are placed in the correct locations to maximize performance in Southern California conditions.

Design Flexibility

Modern concrete finishing techniques enable designers to turn functional concrete surfaces into design elements that can rival those created with luxurious materials. High-gloss polish finishes can create mirror-like reflections of natural light and create expansive environments. Decorative options for concrete flooring include acid staining, integral coloring, and stamping to mimic the look of natural stone or tile.

Concrete flooring offers a wide variety of color options, ranging from soft earth tones to bold, bright colors that match current interior design trends. Techniques to expose aggregates in concrete create one-of-a-kind textured surfaces while still creating smooth, easily cleaned surfaces. Concrete also accepts a variety of surface treatments, including epoxy coatings, micro-cement overlays, and artistic inlays.

Options for Customization

Concrete contractors can install custom logos, borders, and patterns in concrete floors during the installation process. Radiant heating systems can be installed in concrete floors to provide warm temperatures during cooler months. Installing radiant heating systems in concrete floors eliminates the need for additional heating systems and maintains clean lines.

Using scoring and saw-cutting techniques, designers and builders can create geometric patterns that define spaces without the use of transition strips. Scoring and saw-cutting are particularly effective in open-concept homes that are popular in many of the neighborhoods in Norwalk. Surface treatments can be used to create different zones and visual interest in single installations.

Maintenance Requirements

Compared to traditional flooring materials, concrete flooring requires very little maintenance. Time and money will be saved over the life span of the floor. Sweeping regularly and occasionally using a mop with the right cleaner will keep the appearance and cleanliness of the floor. If properly sealed, concrete flooring will resist stains from spills, pet accidents, and dirt tracked onto the floor.

Unlike carpet, which requires professional cleaning, or hardwood, which requires refinishing, the appearance of a concrete floor can be maintained with standard care. Resealing the floor every few years will refresh the protective coating and enhance the gloss level. Busy homeowners will appreciate the simplicity of caring for a concrete floor.

Cleaning Advantages

Due to its non-porous surface, when properly sealed, concrete flooring prevents the growth of bacteria and allergens that occur in carpet fibers. Therefore, it is an ideal choice for families with allergy sufferers or people with respiratory sensitivities. Pet owners also appreciate the ease of cleaning and odor resistance.

Commercial-grade cleaners will remove tough stains on concrete flooring without causing damage to the surface. Power washing can also be done if needed. Unlike tile, there is no grout line to clean around, reducing the time spent on cleaning and providing the same aesthetic benefits.

Thermal Mass Characteristics & Energy Efficiency

The thermal mass characteristics of concrete regulate temperatures naturally, which results in energy savings through reduced heating and cooling costs throughout the Mediterranean climate of Norwalk. When warm, concrete absorbs heat and releases it slowly as temperatures decrease. This thermal “flywheel” effect helps moderate indoor temperature fluctuations and reduces the workload of HVAC systems.

Radiant floor heating systems work exceptionally well with concrete flooring and provide efficient warming distribution at lower operating temperatures. Unlike forced-air systems that cause temperature stratification, radiant concrete floors distribute even heating from floor to ceiling. This results in energy savings and increased comfort for homeowners.

Environmental Benefits

By eliminating VOCs commonly found in many traditional flooring materials, concrete flooring improves indoor air quality. Zero-VOC sealers and finishes continue to promote healthy indoor environments. By extending the life of concrete flooring, we reduce waste generated from the frequent replacement of flooring materials.

Using locally sourced aggregates for concrete minimizes the environmental impact associated with transporting raw materials and supports the local economy. At the end of their life cycle, concrete products can be recycled, creating environmental benefits over materials that must be disposed of in landfills. Projects pursuing LEED certification often specify concrete flooring for its environmental benefits.

Cost Effectiveness & Return on Investment

The initial cost of installing concrete flooring compares favorably with that of premium flooring materials, yet offers superior durability. Installation prices for concrete flooring can range from $2 to $30 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the finish and decorative treatments. The cost of basic polished concrete flooring is generally less than that of quality hardwood, yet it produces an equivalent aesthetic appeal.

As mentioned previously, the long-term economic benefits of installing concrete flooring are substantial, particularly when considering maintenance savings and replacement intervals. Installing concrete flooring adds value to a property and is considered a desirable feature by potential buyers looking for modern, low-maintenance features. Many real estate professionals consider concrete flooring a desirable feature in contemporary home markets.

Potential Return on Investment

Installing quality concrete flooring with thoughtfully designed and professionally executed installations will add value to a property and will likely increase the sale price of the property. Modern buyers appreciate the combination of style and practicality offered by concrete flooring. Reduced maintenance costs over the life of the flooring will also result in continued financial benefits.

Insurance considerations may also favor concrete flooring due to its fire resistance and reduced risk of flood damage. Unlike carpet or hardwood, which must be replaced after water damage, properly sealed concrete typically requires only cleaning and resealing to restore its appearance and protect against further damage. This ability to resist damage will reduce insurance claims and associated costs.

Concrete Flooring Applications in Norwalk Homes

Concrete flooring is suitable for various residential applications, including kitchen, bathroom, living room, and basement areas. Kitchens benefit from concrete’s resistance to spills and stains and ease of cleaning after meals are prepared. Bathrooms benefit from the moisture-resistant characteristics of concrete and can be treated with slip-resistant additives to prevent slipping hazards.

In living rooms, concrete flooring can create sophisticated environments that complement modern furniture and décor. Basements can utilize concrete flooring to alleviate concerns about moisture while creating attractive and durable surfaces for recreational areas. Garages benefit from the stain resistance of concrete to oil and chemicals.

Regional Considerations

Properties in the region surrounding Norwalk, such as those near major transportation routes, such as the 605 and 5 freeway, will benefit from the stability provided by concrete flooring. Properties located near the Norwalk Green Line Station will benefit from the sound-dampening characteristics of concrete flooring. Additionally, properties located in proximity to the San Gabriel River that are susceptible to flooding will benefit from the water resistance of concrete flooring.

The Mediterranean climate of the region allows for the installation of concrete flooring throughout much of the year. Experienced contractors understand the best times for installation to produce the desired results. Building codes in the region have minimal restrictions regarding the installation of concrete flooring when compared to other regions.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation of a concrete floor requires experienced contractors knowledgeable of material properties, regional conditions, and finishing techniques. Proper preparation of the substrate before installing the concrete will ensure long-term performance and prevent common problems such as cracking or delaminating. The quality of the contractor’s work during installation will determine the final appearance and durability of the finished concrete flooring.

At Norwalk Concrete Works, we specialize in installing concrete flooring in residential homes throughout the Los Angeles County area. Our company provides complete service, from design consultation to final finishing, and understands regional soil conditions, climate, architectural trends, and finishing techniques to ensure successful concrete flooring projects.