I’ve been living with polished concrete floors for about five years now, and it’s been a mix of surprises and benefits. Cracks have appeared in a few spots, mostly where the subfloor shifted, but nothing catastrophic, and minor hairline cracks can be filled easily. Staining isn’t as bad as I feared—sealed surfaces resist most spills, though wine or oil left too long will mark the floor. Cleaning is straightforward: sweeping and occasional damp mopping keep it looking fresh, and slipperiness can be managed with a textured finish or rugs in key areas. Knowing what I know now, I’d still consider polished concrete, especially for its durability and modern look, and I’ve been impressed with the work of Mass Concrete, who show just how creative and long-lasting these surfaces can be while maintaining a high-end feel.