Palette & Patina Blog

As the colder months approach, many homeowners may wonder if it’s still possible to paint their houses. While spring and summer are typically seen as the ideal seasons for painting, winter painting is not only feasible but can also yield impressive results if done correctly. Here’s everything you need to know about painting your house in the winter. 1. Temperature Considerations Most paint products come with specific temperature guidelines for application. Generally, it’s advisable to paint when temperatures are above 50°F (10°C) and below 90°F (32°C). In winter, this can be a challenge, but there are a few strategies to make it work: Choose the Right Days: Look for milder winter days when temperatures rise above the minimum. Often, a sunny day can provide enough warmth for successful application. Use Indoor Heating: If painting indoors, utilize heating systems to maintain a comfortable temperature, allowing the paint to cure properly. 2. Selecting the Right Paint When it comes to winter painting, not all paints are created equal. Here are some factors to consider: Latex vs. Oil-Based Paints: Latex paints are generally more versatile in cooler temperatures. Look for products specifically formulated for low temperatures, which will enhance adhesion and drying times. Fast-Drying Options: Consider using fast-drying or low-temperature paints that are designed for winter conditions. These products can help prevent issues related to humidity and temperature fluctuations. 3. Humidity and Moisture Levels High humidity can impact paint adhesion and drying time, potentially leading to issues like peeling or bubbling. To mitigate these risks: Check Weather Conditions: Monitor local weather forecasts for humidity levels and avoid painting on days when it’s particularly damp. Use Dehumidifiers: If you’re painting indoors, using a dehumidifier can help control moisture levels, ensuring a better finish. 4. Surface Preparation Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful paint job, especially in winter. Consider the following: Clean and Dry Surfaces: Ensure surfaces are clean and dry before painting. Remove any snow, ice, or moisture, as paint won’t adhere well to wet surfaces. Repair Any Damage: Winter can exacerbate issues like cracks or peeling paint. Take the time to repair and prep surfaces to create a smooth, even base. 5. Timing and Drying Winter days are shorter, which means you’ll need to plan accordingly: Paint During the Warmest Part of the Day: Aim to paint when the sun is at its highest to take advantage of the warmest temperatures. Allow for Extra Drying Time: Paint may take longer to dry in colder temperatures. Be patient and allow ample time between coats to avoid smudging or damage. 6. Indoor Painting Tips If you’re considering an indoor painting project during winter, here are a few additional tips: Ventilation is Key: Even in winter, good ventilation is important. Open windows periodically to prevent paint fumes from building up. Layer with Care: When painting multiple rooms, start with those that are less frequently used, allowing you to manage drying times without disrupting daily activities. Conclusion Yes, you can absolutely paint your house in the winter, but it requires careful planning and consideration of the unique challenges the season presents. By choosing the right products, preparing surfaces properly, and monitoring weather conditions, you can achieve beautiful results even in the colder months. So grab your brushes, embrace the season, and give your home a fresh new look!

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s time to transition your home from summer’s heat to winter’s chill. Fall is the perfect season to tackle essential maintenance tasks that will keep your home cozy, safe, and efficient during the colder months. Here’s a comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist to help you get started. Inspect the Roof and Gutters Roof Check for Damage: Look for missing or damaged shingles and signs of wear or leaks. A small issue can become a major problem if left unattended. Clean Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from the roof to prevent moisture buildup. Gutters Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear out leaves and dirt to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams in winter. Check for Proper Alignment: Make sure gutters are securely attached and sloping correctly to allow water to flow freely. 2. Prepare Heating Systems HVAC Inspection Schedule Professional Maintenance: Have your heating system inspected and serviced to ensure it’s functioning efficiently. Change Filters: Replace air filters in your furnace or heating system to improve air quality and efficiency. Test Thermostat Check Settings: Ensure your thermostat is working properly and programmed for the upcoming season. 3. Seal Windows and Doors Check for Drafts Inspect Weather Stripping: Look for any gaps or worn-out weather stripping around windows and doors. Replace as needed to keep cold air out. Use Caulk: Seal any cracks or gaps with caulk to prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency. 4. Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture Clean Your Furniture: Wipe down patio furniture and store it in a dry place to protect it from the elements. Prepare Grills: Clean your grill and cover it or store it indoors to extend its life. 5. Inspect and Maintain Outdoor Spaces Yard Cleanup Rake Leaves: Remove fallen leaves to prevent mold growth and keep your yard looking tidy. Trim Shrubs and Trees: Prune overgrown branches to prevent damage during winter storms. Check Exterior Lighting Test Outdoor Lights: Ensure all outdoor lights are functioning and replace any burned-out bulbs for safety during darker evenings. 6. Prepare for Winter Emergencies Emergency Kit Assemble an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials like flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a first aid kit in case of winter storms. Inspect Fire Safety Equipment Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test and replace batteries to ensure your detectors are working properly. Inspect Fire Extinguishers: Make sure fire extinguishers are accessible and fully charged. 7. Service Major Appliances Refrigerator and Freezer Clean Coils: Dust off the coils behind or beneath your refrigerator to help it run efficiently. Check Seals: Inspect door seals for leaks and replace them if needed to keep your appliance energy-efficient. Water Heater Flush the Tank: Consider flushing your water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can affect efficiency. Conclusion Completing these fall home maintenance tasks will help prepare your home for the winter months, ensuring comfort and safety for you and your family. By taking the time to address these important areas, you’ll not only extend the lifespan of your home’s systems but also save on energy costs.

As the winter chill gives way to the warmth of spring, it's time to shake off the cobwebs and give your home a thorough check-up. Spring is the perfect season to tackle maintenance tasks both inside and outside your home, ensuring that everything is in top condition for the months ahead. To help you get started, we've compiled a comprehensive spring home maintenance checklist. Exterior Maintenance: Inspect Roof and Gutters: Check for loose or damaged shingles and clear gutters of debris to prevent water damage. Inspect Siding and Paint: Look for cracks, peeling paint, or signs of damage to your home's exterior. Repaint as needed and repair any damaged siding. Clean Windows and Screens: Remove dirt and grime from windows and screens to improve visibility and airflow. Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses: Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks or damage, and replace washers or hoses as needed. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Prune overgrown branches and shrubs to promote healthy growth and prevent damage to your home's exterior. Inspect Driveway and Walkways: Repair cracks and uneven surfaces in your driveway and walkways to ensure safe passage. Service Lawn Equipment: Tune up lawn mowers, trimmers, and other outdoor equipment to prepare for the growing season. Interior Maintenance: Inspect HVAC System: Change air filters, clean vents, and schedule a professional inspection and tune-up of your heating and cooling system. Check Plumbing Fixtures: Inspect faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks or drips, and repair or replace as needed. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and replace batteries. Clean Dryer Vents: Remove lint buildup from dryer vents to prevent fire hazards and improve dryer efficiency. Check Caulking and Seals: Inspect caulking around windows, doors, and bathtubs, and reapply or repair as needed to prevent drafts and water damage. Inspect Attic and Basement: Look for signs of water damage, pests, or mold in your attic and basement, and address any issues promptly. Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery: Give your carpets and upholstery a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, dust, and allergens accumulated during the winter months. Miscellaneous Tasks: Schedule Pest Control Services: Prevent pests from invading your home by scheduling regular pest control treatments. Clean and Organize Garage: Declutter your garage, sweep the floors, and organize tools and equipment for easy access. Inspect Outdoor Lighting: Replace burnt-out bulbs and clean fixtures to ensure adequate lighting around your home. Check Outdoor Furniture: Clean and inspect outdoor furniture for damage, and repair or replace as needed for springtime enjoyment. Inspect Deck and Patio: Check for loose boards, rusted nails, or signs of rot on your deck or patio, and make repairs to ensure safety and longevity.  By following this spring home maintenance checklist, you can keep your home in top condition and address any issues before they become major problems. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can enjoy a comfortable and well-maintained home throughout the spring and beyond.

When it comes to home improvement projects, hiring a professional painter can save you time, effort, and ensure a high-quality finish. However, understanding the cost of hiring a painter is essential for budgeting and planning purposes. One common question homeowners ask is, "How much do painters charge per hour?" Let's explore this topic in more detail. Factors Influencing Painter Rates Painter rates can vary significantly based on several factors, including: Location : Rates may vary depending on the local cost of living, market demand for painting services, and prevailing wage rates in your area. Experience and Skill Level : Experienced painters with a proven track record of quality workmanship may command higher rates than those with less experience. Scope of Work : The complexity and size of the painting project will influence the hourly rate. Larger projects or those requiring specialized techniques may command higher rates. Painting Materials : The cost of paint, primer, brushes, rollers, and other materials needed for the project may be factored into the overall rate. Preparation Work : If extensive surface preparation, such as sanding, patching, or priming, is required before painting, this may affect the hourly rate. Seasonality : Demand for painting services may fluctuate seasonally, with rates potentially higher during peak periods of demand. Average Painter Rates While painter rates can vary widely, it's helpful to have a general idea of average hourly rates for residential painting projects. In the United States, painters may charge anywhere from $25 to $100 per hour, with an average rate falling between $40 and $60 per hour. Keep in mind that these rates are estimates and may vary based on the factors mentioned earlier. Additional Cost Considerations In addition to hourly rates, homeowners should consider other cost factors associated with hiring a painter, including: Materials : The cost of paint, primer, and other supplies needed for the project. Travel Expenses : If the painter needs to travel a significant distance to reach your home, this may incur additional costs. Overhead and Profit Margin : Painters may include overhead costs and a profit margin in their hourly rates to cover expenses such as insurance, equipment maintenance, and business operations. Obtaining Quotes and Estimates To get an accurate understanding of the cost of your painting project, it's advisable to obtain quotes or estimates from multiple painters in your area. Be sure to provide detailed information about the scope of work, including the size and condition of the surfaces to be painted, any specific colors or finishes desired, and any additional requirements or preferences you may have. Conclusion While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much painters charge per hour, understanding the factors influencing painter rates can help you make informed decisions when hiring a professional for your painting project. By obtaining multiple quotes, comparing rates, and carefully evaluating the expertise and reputation of painters in your area, you can ensure that you receive quality service at a fair price.

Homeowner Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in maintaining the aesthetic appeal and property values of neighborhoods in Covington, Louisiana, and the northshore. Part of this responsibility includes establishing and enforcing painting guidelines to ensure uniformity, quality, and consistency throughout the community. If you're a homeowner in a Covington HOA, understanding these painting guidelines is essential. Let's delve into what you need to know. Importance of HOA Painting Guidelines HOA painting guidelines serve several purposes: Preserving Community Aesthetics : Consistent paint colors and maintenance standards contribute to the overall visual appeal of the neighborhood, enhancing curb appeal and property values for all residents. Protecting Property Values : By ensuring that homes are well-maintained and visually cohesive, HOA painting guidelines help protect property values over time. Promoting Harmony : Clear guidelines help prevent disputes between homeowners regarding exterior paint colors, finishes, and other aesthetic considerations. Common HOA Painting Regulations While specific guidelines may vary from one HOA to another, there are several common regulations that homeowners in Covington, Mandeville, Madisonville and similar communities should be aware of: Approved Color Palette : Many HOAs maintain a list of pre-approved paint colors or color schemes for exteriors. Homeowners are typically required to choose from this list to maintain consistency within the neighborhood. Architectural Review Process : Before repainting the exterior of their home, homeowners may need to submit an application to the HOA's architectural review committee for approval. This ensures that proposed paint colors comply with established guidelines. Quality Standards : HOAs often establish standards for paint quality, application techniques, and maintenance practices to ensure long-lasting results and uniformity across properties. Maintenance Requirements : In addition to initial painting, HOAs may require homeowners to regularly maintain their exterior paint to prevent deterioration and maintain visual appeal. Additional Restrictions : Some HOAs may have additional restrictions regarding paint finishes, accents, trim colors, or other aesthetic details. It's important for homeowners to familiarize themselves with these specific guidelines. Compliance and Enforcement HOAs typically have mechanisms in place to enforce painting guidelines and address non-compliance. This may include issuing warnings, fines, or even legal action in extreme cases. By adhering to the established guidelines, homeowners contribute to the overall harmony and well-being of the community while avoiding potential penalties. HOA painting guidelines in Covington and similar communities are designed to maintain the beauty, value, and harmony of residential neighborhoods. By understanding and complying with these guidelines, homeowners play a vital role in preserving the aesthetic integrity of their community while safeguarding their property investments. If you have questions about specific painting regulations in your HOA, reach out to your association's board or architectural review committee for clarification and guidance.

As a homeowner, you're likely familiar with the various expenses that come with maintaining your property. From routine maintenance to unexpected repairs, it's important to understand what is covered by your homeowner's insurance policy and what isn't. One question that often arises is whether homeowner's insurance will cover the cost of a paint job. Let's explore this topic in more detail. Understanding Homeowner's Insurance Coverage Homeowner's insurance typically provides coverage for damage to your home caused by specific perils, such as fire, windstorms, hail, vandalism, and more. It also typically covers personal liability protection in case someone is injured on your property and you are found liable. However, homeowner's insurance policies generally do not cover routine maintenance or cosmetic enhancements, including painting. This means that if you decide to repaint the interior or exterior of your home simply to freshen up its appearance, the cost of the paint job would typically not be covered by your insurance policy. When Would Homeowner's Insurance Cover a Paint Job? While homeowner's insurance typically does not cover paint jobs for cosmetic reasons, there are some situations in which it may provide coverage: Damage from Covered Perils : If your home suffers damage from a covered peril such as fire, smoke, vandalism, or a severe storm, and the paint is damaged as a result, your homeowner's insurance may cover the cost of repainting the affected areas. However, it's important to review your policy to understand the specific coverage limits and exclusions. Water Damage : Water damage caused by sudden and accidental events, such as a burst pipe or a leaking roof, may be covered by homeowner's insurance. If water damage results in the need to repaint damaged areas, your insurance policy may cover the cost of repainting as part of the overall repair process. Mold Remediation : If your home experiences water damage that leads to mold growth, homeowner's insurance may cover the cost of mold remediation, which could include repainting affected areas after the mold has been removed. Steps to Take If you believe you have a situation where your homeowner's insurance may cover the cost of a paint job, it's important to take the following steps: Review Your Policy : Carefully review your homeowner's insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is excluded. Pay close attention to the section on property damage and any specific exclusions related to cosmetic repairs. Document the Damage : If your home has suffered damage from a covered peril, document the damage thoroughly with photographs and written descriptions. This documentation will be important when filing a claim with your insurance company. Contact Your Insurance Provider : Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claims process. They can provide guidance on what steps to take next and what documentation will be required to support your claim. Work with Professionals : If your claim is approved, work with reputable painting contractors or restoration professionals to assess the extent of the damage and complete the necessary repairs, including any repainting that may be required. While homeowner's insurance typically does not cover paint jobs for cosmetic reasons, there are certain situations where the cost of repainting may be covered if it is deemed necessary as part of a covered claim. It's important to review your policy, document any damage, and work closely with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options and ensure that you receive the appropriate compensation for any covered losses.

Living in Southeast Louisiana means facing the annual threat of hurricanes and tropical storms. While preparing your home for these weather events typically involves securing windows, reinforcing doors, and stocking up on supplies, one often overlooked aspect of hurricane preparation is the role of paint. In this blog post, we'll explore how strategic paint choices and preparations can help protect your home during hurricane season in Southeast Louisiana. Exterior Paint as a Protective Barrier: The exterior paint of your home serves as more than just a decorative element; it also acts as a protective barrier against the elements, including wind, rain, and debris. Choosing a high-quality exterior paint that is specifically formulated for durability and weather resistance can help fortify your home's defenses against hurricane-force winds and driving rain. Consider investing in a premium-grade exterior paint that is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, high humidity, and intense sunlight. Look for paints with added features like mold and mildew resistance, UV protection, and moisture barrier properties. Prioritize proper surface preparation before applying exterior paint. Ensure that surfaces are clean, dry, and free of dirt, debris, and peeling paint. Repair any cracks, gaps, or damage to the exterior substrate before painting to create a seamless and protective finish. Impact-Resistant Coatings for Windows and Doors: In addition to painting your home's exterior, consider applying impact-resistant coatings to vulnerable areas such as windows and doors. These specialized coatings, often referred to as hurricane-resistant or storm-proof coatings, provide an extra layer of protection against flying debris and windborne projectiles during hurricanes and severe storms. Hurricane-resistant coatings are typically clear or tinted and can be applied directly to glass surfaces, including windows, doors, and skylights. These coatings help strengthen the glass and prevent it from shattering upon impact, reducing the risk of property damage and injury from flying debris. When selecting impact-resistant coatings for windows and doors, look for products that meet industry standards for hurricane protection, such as ASTM International's standards for impact resistance and windborne debris protection. Consult with a professional contractor or glass specialist to ensure proper application and effectiveness. Flood-Resistant Paint for Interior Surfaces: In addition to wind and debris, hurricanes in Southeast Louisiana often bring the risk of flooding due to storm surge, heavy rainfall, and overflowing rivers and waterways. To protect your home's interior surfaces from water damage and mold growth, consider using flood-resistant paint in susceptible areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and ground-level rooms. Flood-resistant paints are specially formulated to withstand prolonged exposure to moisture and humidity without compromising adhesion or durability. These paints typically feature mold and mildew inhibitors, moisture barrier properties, and fast-drying formulas to help prevent water infiltration and damage. Apply flood-resistant paint to interior walls, floors, and trim in areas prone to flooding, focusing on areas where water intrusion is most likely to occur, such as around windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures. Be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines for surface preparation and application to ensure optimal performance and protection.  Hurricane preparation in Southeast Louisiana requires a comprehensive approach that addresses all aspects of home protection, including exterior surfaces, windows, doors, and interior spaces. By incorporating strategic paint choices and preparations into your hurricane readiness plan, you can help safeguard your home against the destructive forces of wind, rain, and flooding. Whether you're fortifying your home's exterior with weather-resistant paint, applying impact-resistant coatings to windows and doors, or using flood-resistant paint to protect interior surfaces, every precaution you take can make a difference in mitigating storm damage and ensuring the safety and security of your home and family.

Creating a conducive work environment is essential for fostering productivity, creativity, and employee well-being. One often-overlooked aspect of office design that significantly influences the atmosphere is the choice of paint colors. In this blog post, we'll explore how the color scheme of your office walls can impact employee mood and performance, highlighting the importance of thoughtful paint selection in creating a positive and productive workspace. Color Psychology: Color psychology examines how different colors affect human emotions, mood, and behavior. When it comes to office design, understanding the psychological effects of paint colors is crucial for creating an environment that promotes productivity and well-being. Blue: Blue is known for its calming and soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for high-stress environments such as offices. Blue hues promote feelings of relaxation, focus, and concentration, which can help employees stay calm and composed during busy workdays. Green: Green is associated with nature, growth, and renewal, evoking feelings of balance, harmony, and freshness. Incorporating green tones into office spaces can create a sense of tranquility and vitality, fostering a connection to the natural world and reducing feelings of stress and fatigue. Yellow: Yellow is a bright and energizing color that is often associated with positivity, optimism, and creativity. Introducing yellow accents or highlights in office decor can boost mood and motivation, inspiring employees to approach tasks with enthusiasm and innovation. Impact on Mood and Productivity: The color scheme of your office walls can have a profound impact on employee mood and productivity. Research has shown that certain colors can evoke specific emotional responses and influence cognitive performance, creativity, and decision-making abilities. Warm colors like red and orange are stimulating and energizing, but excessive use can be overwhelming and distracting. Consider incorporating these colors in moderation or as accent tones to prevent overstimulation. Neutral colors like white, beige, and grey provide a versatile backdrop that complements a variety of design styles and furnishings. Neutral walls can create a sense of openness and spaciousness, promoting a clean and organized work environment. Considerations for Paint Selection: When selecting paint colors for your office, it's essential to consider the unique needs and preferences of your employees, as well as the nature of your business and brand identity. Here are some tips for choosing the right paint colors: Consult with employees: Involve your team in the decision-making process by soliciting their input and preferences regarding paint colors. Consider conducting surveys or brainstorming sessions to gather feedback and ideas. Reflect company values: Select paint colors that reflect your company's values, mission, and brand identity. Choose hues that align with your brand personality and resonate with your target audience. Test and evaluate: Before committing to a paint color scheme, test samples on your office walls to assess how they look in different lighting conditions and how they affect the overall atmosphere. Consider factors such as natural light, artificial lighting, and room size when making your final decision. The atmosphere of your office plays a significant role in shaping employee mood, motivation, and performance. By leveraging the psychological effects of paint colors, you can create a workspace that fosters creativity, collaboration, and well-being. Whether you opt for calming blues, revitalizing greens, or energizing yellows, thoughtful paint selection can make a world of difference in enhancing the overall atmosphere and productivity of your office. 

Thinking about tackling a DIY concrete floor project? While the allure of saving money and showcasing your handy skills might be tempting, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Today on Palette & Patina, we'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of DIY concrete flooring and why entrusting the job to a professional is often the superior option. Pros of DIY Concrete Floor: Cost Savings: One of the primary reasons DIY enthusiasts opt for concrete flooring projects is the potential cost savings. By eliminating labor costs, you may be able to reduce the overall expenses associated with the project. Creative Control: DIY projects allow you to exercise full creative control over the design and execution of your concrete floor. From choosing the color and texture to experimenting with decorative techniques, DIYers enjoy the freedom to customize their floors according to their vision. Learning Experience: Undertaking a DIY concrete floor project can be a valuable learning experience, providing you with new skills and knowledge about concrete mixing, pouring, and finishing techniques. Plus, the sense of accomplishment from completing the project yourself can be immensely satisfying. Cons of DIY Concrete Floor: Lack of Expertise: Concrete flooring requires specialized knowledge and expertise to achieve professional-quality results. Without proper training and experience, DIYers may struggle to properly prepare the subfloor, mix the concrete, and achieve a smooth, level finish. Time-Consuming: DIY concrete flooring projects can be incredibly time-consuming, especially for beginners. From surface preparation and concrete mixing to pouring and finishing, each step of the process requires careful attention to detail and can take days or even weeks to complete. Risk of Errors: Inexperienced DIYers are more susceptible to making mistakes during the concrete flooring process, such as improper mixing ratios, uneven pouring, or inadequate sealing. These errors can compromise the structural integrity and aesthetics of the floor, leading to costly repairs or replacements down the line. Limited Resources: DIYers may not have access to the same resources, equipment, and materials that professional contractors utilize for concrete flooring projects. Without proper tools and supplies, achieving professional-grade results can be challenging, if not impossible. Why Hiring a Professional is the Smarter Choice: Expertise and Experience: Professional concrete contractors have the knowledge, skills, and experience to deliver superior results efficiently and effectively. They understand the intricacies of concrete flooring and can ensure proper surface preparation, precise mixing, and flawless finishing. Time and Efficiency: Hiring a professional saves you time and effort by streamlining the concrete flooring process from start to finish. Professionals have access to specialized equipment and techniques that enable them to complete the project in a fraction of the time it would take an amateur DIYer. Quality Assurance: Professional concrete contractors use high-quality materials and proven techniques to achieve durable, long-lasting concrete floors that meet industry standards. With a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail, professionals deliver results that exceed DIY expectations. Peace of Mind: By entrusting your concrete flooring project to a professional, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the job is in capable hands. Professional contractors handle all aspects of the project, from initial planning to final cleanup, allowing you to relax and enjoy your new concrete floor without stress or worry. While DIY concrete flooring projects may seem appealing in theory, the reality is that they often come with significant challenges and risks. By hiring a professional concrete contractor, you can benefit from their expertise, efficiency, and commitment to quality, ensuring a beautiful, durable floor that enhances the beauty and value of your home. Don't gamble with your concrete floor—choose the smart option and leave it to the professionals.