We are fixing up a small house and need some ideas that aren't too costly for concrete floors. They have been sealed before and painted a medium gray color, but we were thinking hardware floors or another alternative. Any ideas of something we can do ourselves and still look professional?
A very light grind of the concrete will remove old coatings and show a little aggregate. You can then coat with a polyurethane to give the polished concrete look. Also you could use concrete dyes and then put the polyurethnae over the top. You can do the polyurethane and dye yourself very easily and is also quite cheap. Have a look at the website below for further ideas.
The block sounds like it has been very well insulated. When you live in a block other people's heating can seep through into your dwelling. The only way I can think of is to keep windows open all the time. But I assume you've tried that already. Go to the doctors about it and explain the situation. The doctor can then write to the necessary people explaining the situation, that you are all suffering from the effects of the problem and this could possibly prompt the authority into doing something. Make sure you let the doctor know that it has become unbearable and that the children (who are the most important in this kind of situation) are suffering badly, with their sleeping, their school life and their health. Hopefully, this can spur someone into action. Good luck!!
Hardwood floors are great for living areas, but I prefer vinyl flooring for kitchens and baths. Sure tile looks great, but it's also very cold on a concrete slab house. Vinyl is also less expensive. If the house is really small, opt for carpet in the living areas. You can get some great inexpensive remants in small sizes and it makes it cozy and is still professional. I think hardwood floors are going to be trending out here shortly anyway.
