If you decide to have your concrete floors sealed, your job is not finished yet. Now, you have to consider whether you want a matte finish or glossy finish. Each option has its pros and cons. There’s no right answer to this because you have unique needs and circumstances that need to be addressed.
When looking for a concrete sealer, you need to factor in several variables.
- What outcome do you expect when it comes to the color scheme?
- Do you want to add accents to the floor in the form of a pattern or stencil?
- How shiny do you want your floor to be?
- Do you have pets and small children in the house who are still not fully in control of their motor skills?
There are just some of the questions you will be confronted with when you apply a coat of concrete sealer protection on your floor.
Hopefully, this article will help to make your decision before buying concrete sealers.
Matte Floor Finish
A matte concrete sealer will result in a more understated finish. It will evoke a warm atmosphere, but with enough luster that still allows light to reflect on the surface. If you have uneven floors, a matte finish will hide the flaws better compared to gloss.
If you want a more natural look in your home or a more welcoming vibe on your establishment, matte is the way to go. Another advantage of the matte finish is that it hides dirt better compared to a shiny coat.
Gloss Finish
With gloss, you have a choice of the level of luster you want. There’s high-gloss or semi-gloss. They give off that perennial “wet-look.” In terms of upkeep, glossy floors are easier to clean due to the smooth and slippery surface. On the downside, they are prone to scratches and scuff marks, especially in areas with high foot traffic. Sliding furniture around is another culprit in creating floor damage.
Nevertheless, businesses typically choose a shinier floor because it looks more elegant and expensive.
Hybrid Floor
You can blend gloss and matte concrete sealer for a more distinctive look to your floors. For instance, houses with family crests on the floor will benefit from a hybrid finish. You can apply a matte concrete sealer in areas surrounding the crest, which is protected by a glossy finish. Watch how your family crest will pop out.
The same concept can be applied in business establishments, hotel lobbies, and restaurants where they can display their logo more prominently.
Again, there’s no right or wrong decision. It all boils down to your own needs and requirements. But it’s noteworthy to know that solvent-based sealers will accentuate the natural hues of the concrete better compared to water-based sealers. Water-based sealers tend to result in a flat or low-gloss finish.
You can always consult with the designer to help you achieve the kind of aesthetic you want for your home or business.
For all types of concrete sealers, you can visit Contractor Source over at Lea Road, Morris, IL. You may also call their toll-free number at 1-888-263-5895 for a free quote or if you have any questions. Their friendly customer representatives are always on standby to serve you.
Love the picture of the patio on this page. Ashlar pattern correct? But I am curious about the color. It looks like a grey with a brown release, correct? Do you know the exact color manufacturer and colors used? I am picky !!
Both Concrete sealers are amazing! Thank you for sharing this information. Matte Floor Finish sounds really good. I will check out more.
I don’t know if I’d be able to decide so I like that there’s a blend of the two.
I admit, I do not know much about this at all! I would probably go for a gloss finish.
I don’t know why, but I would prefer the glossy type still. Just like you said, it’s more elegant looking.
I’ll go for the glossy finish. The traffic in our house is not much and it looks better.
Those are beautiful, and I like the glossy finish of that project. Thanks for sharing!
My preference is the semi glossy. Easier to manage as regards cleaning and aesthetics
I am always afraid that the glossy will be slick. Probably not any more so than the matte, but that’s what I think.
Concrete floors are not common around here, but I like the idea of a hybrid sealer.
Although glossy finish might be risky, I still prefer that one for easy cleaning.
I didn’t know you could blend the two for a hybrid look. I’m partial to the gloss but because of how easy it mars, the hybrid option appeals most to me.
I always go for a matte finish. It just looks more classy to me as compared to a glossy finish.
You have a wonderful blog, very interestingly written. I love reading you