Looking to upgrade your existing retail space, or opening up a brand-new store? Chances are you’ll want to include flooring that will stand up to day-to-day abuse—without breaking the bank, if possible.
If you want to get away from easy-to-stain carpet, easy-to-crack tile, or easy-to-damage vinyl, consider starting from the bare bones of your space: your existing concrete slab.
Making use of the underlying concrete is a cost-effective way to improve your retail space flooring without spending a fortune. Here are a few ways that you can dress up your concrete for a durable, long-lasting retail flooring solution:
Polished Concrete
What it is: Your existing concrete slab, physically ground and polished to a glossy shine (pictured above)Key benefits:
- Improves the concrete’s natural hardness and durability
- Attractive, smooth, and glossy surface
- Simple to clean
- Can remain grey, reveal hidden textures, or have colors added through staining
- Eliminates dust “shedding” common to untreated concrete
- Good traction even when wet
- Easy to maintain (a re-buffing of the surface every few years)
Drawbacks: Soaks up liquids, can be stained by oil drips, slippery in especially dusty conditions
Common retail flooring applications:
- Warehouse-style stores
- Retail spaces with an “industrial” vibe
- Retail spaces with a simplified, chic aesthetic
- Shops with a spacious lobby
Learn more about the benefits of concrete polishing.
Urethane Floor Coating
What it is: An ultra-durable liquid coating that can be applied over many types of existing flooring, including concrete and hardwood
Key benefits:
- Superior resistance to abrasion, scratches, and chipping
- Resists damage from liquids, oils, and even chemicals
- Simple to clean
- Adds a satin shine to existing flooring
- Can protect hardwoods while not diminishing their beauty
- May last a decade or longer before needing re-application
Drawbacks: Needs a few days to cure during installation
Common retail flooring applications:
- High-traffic retail areas that need extra protection
- Restaurants, kitchens, and food outlets
- Spaces with existing hardwood
Learn more about the benefits of urethane coatings.
Epoxy Floor Coating
What it is: A two-part liquid floor coating that creates a strong chemical bond with the floor; typically used with (but not limited to) concrete flooring
Key benefits:
- Strong resistance to abrasions, scratches, and chipping
- Resists damage from liquids, oils, and even chemicals
- Simple to clean
- Versatile palate of colors available; can be used to create graphics or striping
- Eye-catching patterns available, including shimmering metallic, swirls, and confetti-like flakes
- If applied correctly, may last up to a decade before needing re-application
Drawbacks: Requires thorough cleaning and preparation of existing floor to ensure a proper bond
Common retail flooring applications:
- High-traffic retail areas
- Restaurants, kitchens, and food outlets
- Retail spaces that require graphics and marked pathways
Learn more about the benefits of epoxy floor coatings.
Need more guidance?
We hope this quick overview has been helpful. If you’d like to learn more about the different flooring options available to you, browse our blog or check out our overview of floor coating options.
