With the incredible foot traffic associated with students and faculty coupled with a lot of outside guests, Atlanta universities recognized the need for a flooring solution that was strong and durable yet aesthetically pleasing. In doing their research, they discovered that
acid stained concrete floors
offered the exact benefits they were looking for and then some.
The biggest flooring challenge at universities is that most systems wear down quickly because there is so much foot traffic. However, stained concrete floors are extremely durable and, therefore, not easily damaged. Concrete on its own is a remarkable material, something that continues to stand in centuries-old buildings, so it makes sense to use it as a flooring solution. However, once a concrete stain is applied, the floor becomes even more durable and strong.
Acid stained concrete floors are unique. Once the stain is applied to the concrete, it penetrates the surface, becoming a permanent component of the floor. The acid stain then reacts to minerals in the concrete. As a result, the floor ends up with a variegated and/or marbled effect. What makes this so great for universities is that no two floors are identical. In other words, different educational institutions in Atlanta could choose the exact same color and technique but no two would be alike.
Universities in Atlanta also discovered that concrete with an acid stained finish, serve to insulate buildings so that in the summer, they were cooler, and in the winter, they were warmer. Especially for older institutions, this makes a huge difference in the comfort of students. The more comfortable students are, the better they can focus on their studies.
There was yet another discovery. Stained concrete floors are environmentally friendly. Unlike other flooring solutions, concrete contains no volatile organic compounds nor does it hold dust mites, as does carpeting. Best of all, no trees are cut down to make concrete, and this material can be recycled over and over again.