Should You Choose Concrete Flooring for Your House?

Are you looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance, and stylish flooring option? If so, concrete floors in your house could be the perfect solution. Unlike traditional materials that degrade over time, concrete is built to last for decades. It withstands heavy foot traffic, spills, and daily use while requiring minimal upkeep. With custom finishes like polished, tinted, or textured concrete, it’s become a practical and modern design statement.
However, before committing, it’s essential to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks. While concrete is versatile and durable, it may not be ideal for every home. As experts in concrete flooring, we offer insights on costs, maintenance, sustainability, and design.
Here's to helping you make an informed decision for your residence.
What Are Concrete Floors & Why Are They Used in Homes?
Concrete flooring is a solid, seamless surface made from cement, aggregate, and water. While once associated with industrial spaces, it is now a go-to option for modern homes. Thanks to advances in polishing, staining, and overlays, concrete can now match any style.
Concrete is particularly popular in open-plan homes, as its seamless finish elevates the spatial flow. Better yet, concrete floors can be customised for minimalist, industrial, and modern designs. This makes them a bold, stylish, and versatile choice. Plus, underfloor heating is often paired with concrete to offset its natural coolness. Thanks to this pairing, concrete is better placed to provide year-round comfort.
Concrete is suitable for kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor areas. It offers durability, easy maintenance, and a sleek aesthetic. The UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows a 13.7% rise in construction using durable materials, like concrete, in the last five years. But is it the right fit for every home?
The Pros: Why Homeowners Choose Concrete Floors
1. Exceptional Durability
Concrete flooring is one of the most robust materials available, making it perfect for high-traffic areas. Unlike wood, which can scratch, or carpet, which can fray, concrete resists heavy footfall, furniture impact, and general wear.
With proper sealing and finishing, concrete floors maintain their structural integrity for decades. Many loft apartments and modern homes keep their original concrete floors. This is because concrete is long-lasting and strong. For extra strength, reinforced concrete with added coatings further improves durability. The UK Concrete Society says that, if maintained, concrete floors can last up to 50 years with minimal work.
2. Low Maintenance & Easy Cleaning
Concrete requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for busy households. Unlike carpets, which trap dust and allergens, or wood floors, which need regular refinishing, concrete is easy to manage.
Basic upkeep includes sweeping, mopping, and periodic resealing to maintain its finish. Properly sealed concrete is resistant to stains, moisture, and bacteria. These resistances make it a practical choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and pet-friendly homes. Plus, concrete is non-porous and does not absorb spills, preventing long-term staining.
3. Versatile Design Options
Concrete has evolved far beyond its traditional grey, industrial look. How? Well, homeowners can now fully customise their flooring. Modern staining, polishing, and decorating techniques mean better matches for aesthetic preferences.
Available finishes include:
- Polished concrete for a glossy, high-end finish.
- Acid-stained concrete for a warm, textured appearance.
- Decorative overlays for unique patterns or stone-like textures.
- Coloured and stamped concrete to replicate wood, stone, or tile.
Concrete's adaptability allows it to blend seamlessly into contemporary, minimalist, or industrial-style interiors. To explore finish options, read our guide to different concrete floor finishes.
4. Fire & Pest Resistance
Concrete is naturally fire-resistant, unlike wood or vinyl. This feature enhances home safety, reducing fire-related risks. Plus, concrete does not attract woodworm, mould, or rot, so the structural integrity remains intact over time. The Fire Protection Association (FPA) says concrete resists fire better than timber flooring.
5. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
Although concrete flooring has higher upfront costs, it is cheaper over time due to its minimal maintenance and long lifespan. Unlike carpets, which need replacing, and wood, which needs refinishing, concrete is durable. Its lack of upkeep makes it an excellent investment for homeowners seeking longevity and durability. According to UK Homebuilding & Renovating, concrete floors can reduce maintenance costs by up to 40% over 20 years.
The Cons: When Concrete Flooring May Not Be Ideal
1. Hard & Cold Underfoot
A key drawback of concrete flooring is its hardness, which may make it uncomfortable for prolonged standing. Additionally, concrete is a poor insulator, making it cold in the winter.
Many homeowners install underfloor heating or use area rugs in frequently used spaces to address this. These solutions enhance comfort while retaining the durability of concrete flooring.
2. Prone to Cracking Over Time
Concrete is very durable, but small cracks can form due to temperature changes and movement in the foundation. Without proper subfloor preparation, these cracks may become more visible.
To prevent this, professionals use control joints or grooves. These strategically placed grooves allow concrete to expand and contract without cracking. Also, reinforcement materials like steel mesh or fibre reinforcement strengthen the flooring and help reduce any deep cracks.
3. Higher Initial Costs
While concrete flooring can save money in the long term, its initial cost can be higher than alternatives like laminate or vinyl. Plus, decorative finishes, such as polishing and staining, further increase the price.
Concrete also requires up to 28 days to fully cure, meaning installation timelines must be planned in advance. If you’re weighing up options, read our guide on floating concrete floors vs floating concrete finishes.
Upgrade Your Home with Expert Concrete Flooring
Concrete flooring is a durable, stylish, and long-lasting investment for your home. Whether you need a polished concrete surface or a top-tier industrial finish, pick the right contractor. Their expertise will ensure lasting results.
At The LGW Group, we make the process seamless. Our expert concrete flooring specialists handle everything – from custom concrete mixes to flawless installation. We also offer steel floor decking through Prodeck Fixing Ltd, to help ensure maximum durability.
Why Choose LGW Group?
- Custom concrete solutions tailored to residential and commercial needs.
- Reinforced concrete slabs for strength and longevity.
- Efficient concrete pump hire services for hassle-free installation.
- Competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
Upgrade your home today with our concrete flooring contractors by calling 0117 958 2090 or getting in touch for a free quote.