Minnesota Concrete Blog » Floors

Interior Concrete Maintenance

admin — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:54:36 +0000

Concrete floors that have been stained, colored, or painted are the newest material of choice for both homer designers and homeowners. When these floors are installed, they are acid-stained then sealed with a concrete sealer so that they will be water-resistant as well as impervious to stains, dirt, and anything abrasive.

If you own a home with one of these beautiful new floors or are thinking of having one installed, it’s good to know that care and maintenance is easy and not very labor intensive.

Dusting frequently to remove dust and dirt will help safeguard against any abrasion, which may take away from the shine. Some experts recommend a micro-fiber mop and using overlapping and uninterrupted mopping motions.

To get rid of stains and set in dirt, regular damp mopping with cool water will help keep your concrete floor shiny. If you use a cleaner, use one with a neutral pH balance – not too acidic and not too alkaline. Make sure the mop is just slightly damp and not completely wet. Mops like the Swiffer Wet-Jet are not recommended because the cleaners that come with them contain solvents that will streak the sealer on your floor and leave it looking hazy.

In order to keep up the natural shine to your concrete floor, the floors can be occasionally waxed or simply buffing the floor with a polishing compound will do the trick.

If you live in the upper Midwest, Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. can help you with all of your concrete flooring needs, from installing to repairing and care and maintenance.

If you want to explore the many possibilities of concrete floors MN for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Environmentally Friendly Benefits of Building with Concrete

admin — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:08:15 +0000

Decorative concrete is fast becoming known as the “green” alternative of building materials. The trend now is green building, and decorative concrete is on the cutting edge because it is an environmentally friendly building material, extremely durable, and aesthetically versatile. Concrete also helps reflect sunlight which reduces heat, and this natural method of cooling helps reduce energy costs in buildings and homes.

If you are looking for an environmentally friendly floor covering, try decorative concrete. Since there are no organic materials in decorative concrete, it will not have mold or mildew. Carpets can have animal dander and dust mites, which are bad for people with allergies or asthma. Cleaners for carpets, along with the padding and adhesives can contain noxious chemicals.

Concrete is made from materials that are not scarce and contain no harmful emissions. Decorative concrete is the healthy and environmentally alternative floor covering. It is economical and safe for use in schools, hospitals, businesses, and homes. Concrete is also easy to clean and doesn’t require the use of dangerous and harmful chemicals. Concrete floors can even be painted or stained, textured, or stenciled to fit your personal style, and the possibilities are limitless.

If you want to explore the many possibilities of Minneapolis concrete for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Benefits of Environmentally Friendly “Green” Concrete Countertops

The Beauty of Stained Concrete and Interior Concrete Floors

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:25:21 +0000

One of the most exciting developments in the construction industry over the last several years is the widespread use of stained concrete. The applications for this process are limitless and many people are utilizing this new technique on concrete floors in their home or business.

It is virtually impossible to describe the breathtaking designs and beautiful layouts that are being produced with stained concrete. From a planned design, to a graphic that takes its own shape, concrete floors are literally stopping people in their tracks. Take a look at some of the beautiful possibilities that exist in our concrete floors photo gallery.

Many people who have allergies and have fought with carpet all their lives are finding stained concrete to be a wonderful alternative. As beautiful as any carpet, a stained concrete floor is so easy to keep clean, is fresh at all times and can be matched seamlessly to the other designer elements in a home.

In addition to increased customer satisfaction, builders and designers are thrilled with the new innovations in stained concrete, and are excited about this constantly changing technology and design alternative. Almost any idea a homeowner can come up with can be brought to life in stained concrete.

Many companies and businesses are also utilizing stained concrete as an inexpensive method for putting their company logo on the floor in the entrance to their building. It makes an elegant and stylish statement to customers, and reflects innovation.

If you want to investigate the many possibilities of stained concrete and concrete floors for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

The Beauty and Benefits of Stained Concrete Floors

admin — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:40:53 +0000

When searching for the perfect material for your floor, one of the greatest alternatives to marble, tile, and block is stained concrete. Builders understand concrete flooring is one of the most versatile products in use today, because almost any look can be created and match the surroundings of a driveway, cement floor, concrete wall, pool deck, patio, or walkway.

The magic of concrete floors are that the stained concrete can be made to look just like marble, wood, stone, and even leather. Not only is stained concrete used for outdoor flooring, it can even be used to create a spectacular looking floor for indoor rooms. Stained concrete is also much less expensive than any of the aforementioned options for flooring, and one can create a superior look for a fraction of the cost.

Concrete staining is achieved by applying an acid-based stain to a concrete slab. The way the concrete takes the stain is different in each instance, which leads to a unique look from project to project. Usually the stains used for concrete produce an earthy array of tones such as: brown, terra cotta, tan, and blue-green. Although there are manufacturers that have developed other colors, subtle earthy tones are a perfect accent for outdoor areas. And concrete staining creates absolutely gorgeous floors that will look exactly like other types of flooring.

One of the biggest benefits of stained concrete as opposed to other flooring methods is that the bond of the stain to the concrete is very tough and the stain will not chip, crack, or fade. And, not only is cement durable and allows the stain to hold up over time, it looks magnificent and each project brings a new distinct and custom look that will add character and richness to any outdoor or indoor area or room. Therefore, stained concrete is the best and longest lasting flooring solution there is.

If you want to investigate the many possibilities of stained concrete floors for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.