Concrete Flooring Checklist

While most people think concrete is for outdoor areas, it makes for a beautiful and unique indoor flooring choice. We designed a Concrete Buying Checklist to help you ask your local professionals questions before purchasing. For your convenience, we offer a print friendly version of the Concrete Buying Checklist so you can take it with you when shopping.

Buying Concrete Flooring? Know Before You Go!

Download Checklist PDF
Buying Concrete Checklist - 166kb pdf | Download our buying checklist, so you know what questions to ask at your local floor store.

	Questions to Ask	What Do I Want to Know? / Key Points About Buying Concrete
	What are the pros/cons of concrete floors vs. other flooring?	If you are unsure that concrete is for you, this will help you decide.
	What different types of concrete do you carry and how do they differ?	You should be shown the following to get an idea of the brands or types you like: Types of concrete Overlays Brands Shapes and Sizes Price Ranges
	What would you personally recommend for my situation?	Consider: The look you are trying to achieve Home décor and furnishings Climate extremes and traffic level Any pets, kids or disabilities you have The type of room (including stairs) Type of subfloor (wood, concrete) Need for sound insulation Lighting
Once You Have an Idea of What Product You are Leaning Toward...
	What different looks can I create with concrete?	Polished: Smooth, gleaming surface Sealed: Clear or colored; Has protection against damage Scored: Shallowly cut with circular saws to create designs Stamped: Stamped with a pattern to look like stone, brick, tile, etc. Stained: Produce the appearance of stone, wood, etc. or to add color Dyed: Mixed at the installation site to achieve bright, rich shades Integral Color: Colorant is mixed with concrete during processing Paint: Concrete can easily be painted with solid colors or patterns Colored Hardeners: Sprinkle on powder which creates intense hues. Colored Release Agents: Pigments that gives color hardeners an antiqued or mottled appearance Concrete Flooring Aggregates: Mixing in gravel, stone, sand etc.
	How will the floor be sealed?	Urethane sealers are pricey and abrasion resistant. Acrylic sealers provide softer surfaces and require more maintenance. They have UV protection and are easy to re apply as needed.
	What is the average life expectancy?	If properly cared for, concrete can often last a lifetime.
	Is this preferred for a DIY installation?	Ask for DIY instructions. These can also be found in our installation instructions.
	What does the Manufacturer's Warranty cover and how long does it last?	Look for a warranty accompanied by a large US company backing the product. If you find a cheap warranty from a private labeled product without a big US presence, be cautious. Read the fine print!
	What can you tell me about the manufacturer and your experience with their products?	How long and how much have you sold? Customer Testimonials? Large or small/private label? # of years in business? Do they provide support?
Other factors to consider
	Is the product in stock or does it have to be ordered? Is there a minimum order?	Rare products may take longer to ship. Ask your salesperson to check stock with the distributor.
	What is your return policy?	Find out penalties, fees and stipulations for returning. Can you return extra concrete?
	What is the lead time before I can have this completely installed?	Consider factors such as ordering the product, waiting for arrival and installation.
	What other accessories or products might I need and do you carry them?	Examples: Grout, aggregate, coloring agent, trims and moldings, tools for installation, rugs or mats
	Can you provide care instructions?	Follow all the manufacturer's instructions to ensure your warranty is not voided.
	Do you sell cleaning kits and repair kits?	Look for products recommended by the manufacturer.
	What financing options are available?	Consider financing if you decide on a product that is more than your budget.
	Do you deliver?	If so, curbside or stacked in the installation area? Is there a fee? How many days do I have to schedule in advance? Do I need to move furniture? Are there any other preparations that I need to take?
	If not, do you have a list of licensed installers you recommend?	If not, use FindAnyFloor.com's "Find it Locally" Search Tool.