When it comes to a durable floor surface, decorative concrete flooring is one of the toughest, most long lasting choices. Concrete has traditionally been known to be durable, but the dull gray color has not usually been considered very attractive. Now the concrete world has expanded to include many decorative concrete flooring options.

One way concrete floors can be more attractive is by adding color to the concrete itself. Another way decorative concrete flooring is made is by stamping designs into the concrete for an interesting texture.

Polymer Coatings

Another option that is growing in popularity is that of adding a poured polymer coating over the top of the concrete. This is a method that works well in buildings or homes that have preexisting concrete floors. The polymer coating can be used in different colors, with different intricate patterns. It is said to be one of the least expensive ways of creating a stunning motif or themed picture on a floor surface.

Decorative concrete flooring with polymer coating, which is more precisely called "self leveling overlay," is a low maintenance and durable floor. It is becoming popular in public buildings where there is a lot of foot traffic. Carpet in such areas is attractive and comfortable, but must be replaced often, even as much as every year, because it wears out so quickly. Other flooring materials, such as ceramic tile, are more labor intensive in the cleaning and maintenance they require.

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is another type of decorative concrete flooring. In this method, three dimensional patterns are stamped, usually into colored concrete, with a variety of tools. The stamped surface can be made to look like bricks, cobblestones, and other surfaces. The flooring is then coated for a durable surface that will resist the staining that concrete floors are famous for.

A similar method to stamped concrete is stenciled concrete. Here, concrete is poured, and then a huge paper stencil is laid over the surface. This stencil is cut to look like brick patterns or other designs. The paper is left on a few hours and worked into the concrete, then is removed to reveal the texture of the design. Decorative concrete flooring requires only to be kept cleaned and waxed for an attractive floor that will last and last.