Polished concrete: High-end look with low maintenance

Polished concrete provides a smooth, dense surface that is ideal for high-end flooring. The surface is so smooth that cleaning and maintenance is simplified, and light is reflected to greatly enhance the brightness of the area. Polishing can also be used in conjunction with integral coloring, stains, dyes, and stencils to create interesting designs. It can be done to newly cured concrete, very old concrete, or as a polished overlayment on worn or damaged concrete. Supermarkets, restaurants, microbreweries, wineries, and upscale stores have all opted for polished concrete as a less costly way to enhance their properties’ appearance.

Stamped or stenciled concrete: For an Old World feel

If smoothness of the floor is not a concern, then stamped or stenciled concrete can make a bold statement. These processes can mimic the look of hand-laid stones, tile, brick, or even wood planking, but are much more affordable than the real thing. Also, stamped concrete is easier to maintain. Stamped textures and surface profiles can range from relatively smooth to rough and aggressive. Stamping or stenciling can be done as the concrete is being placed and finished, or as an overlayment over existing concrete. Many automobile showrooms, indoor pools, and themed bars and restaurants use stamped or stenciled concrete to create their own unique atmosphere. Steve VandeWater is the manager of The Concrete Store in Fishers, Ind. He is a former Indianapolis area contractor and is the creator of the Indiana Decorative Concrete Network website. E-mail svandewater@sagamorereadymix.com; also visit www.indecorativeconcrete.com.