Going Green with Concrete Flooring

Going green with Concrete Flooring in Boston.

The potentials of concrete as a finish material in residential and commercial applications have only recently begun to be explored; however, an exposed concrete floor is often an energy- and cost-efficient alternative to other finish solutions such as wood flooring and carpet.

Most commercial and residential projects in the Boston, Massachusetts area, utilize site-cast concrete floor slabs. Typically, the concrete slab has acted as a substrate for a finish material such as hardwood flooring, vinyl or ceramic tile, or carpet. The emergence of a variety of concrete coloring, staining, and finishing techniques has made interior exposed concrete floors and surfaces an additional finish option with a unique aesthetic.

There are many benefits to choosing to leave interior concrete floors exposed. Economic advantages include not having to purchase and install an additional finish material on top of the floor slab; additionally, the inherent durability of concrete also saves long-term maintenance and replacement costs that are associated with conventional finish flooring such as carpet, hardwood, and the like.

Concrete is a thermally comfortable surface, slow to heat up and cool off, which helps to moderate indoor climate. It is also a good choice for radiant floor applications.

Health benefits include better indoor air quality as the need for flooring adhesives is eliminated, and elimination of indoor allergens that typically accompany carpeting. Exposed concrete floors are very low-maintenance, requiring only a wet-mop for cleaning.

Builders and developers in the greater Boston area are going green, and the creative uses of concrete factor heavily into their new projects.

Contact:

Artcon Decorative Concrete

(603) 820-6364