Know the Pros and Cons of Concrete

People are often torn between the pros and cons of concrete. While concrete does have a number of benefits, it also has quite a few disadvantages. Most concrete slabs require concrete sealers to keep them looking good, and these sealers do have cons as well. Because concrete is a porous substance, it does absorb dirt and liquids that are spilled on it. The material can also be slowed down by freezing temperatures, so the cold weather can cause the concrete to expand and contract unexpectedly.

As a whole, concrete is extremely durable and will typically last for decades, though cracked and chipped concrete can crack and chip. Unlike pavers, brick or stone, concrete does not change, and adding rebar to a concrete floor will make a larger concrete slab even stronger.

One disadvantage is that certain chemicals, such as those used in concrete polishing, may leach into the water supply and contaminate drinking water. Another downside to concrete is the fact that it is porous, which allows some energy to pass through the concrete and potentially make people very sick. A concrete slab is very hard to install, and can be more expensive than a wood floor, but it is also very long-lasting and durable.

Some benefits of concrete include its strength and durability, ability to resist heat and moisture, as well as easy clean up. The one area where concrete really suffers is its appearance. Though stain resistant, concrete can take a bit of a beating when spills occur, especially acidic ones like wine or soda. It is possible to cover concrete floors with something like concrete paint, but this can be bothersome to many homeowners. One other advantage of concrete floors is their economic viability, as compared to other options such as vinyl flooring or wood, concrete will only need to be replaced about once every ten years, making them a low maintenance option.