All You Need to Know About Concrete Polishing

Concrete polishing has become the rage today because of cost-effectiveness and low maintenance. It is indeed the ultimate alternative for those looking for no-wax flooring material. Moreover, there are endless options when it comes to design options and looks. Because of the superior durability and performance, there is a fast-rising demand for polished concrete floors in both commercial and residential areas.

Polished Concrete Floors

The Process of Concrete Polishing

Expert contractors can grind concrete floor surfaces and polish them to get the desired look. Whether new or old, the concrete floor can be given a high-gloss look that needs no maintenance and no-wax flooring. It is the added durability and performance of the concrete that adds to the appeal of the concrete polishing. A hardener is used on the surface that works as a penetrant chemical, and the surface becomes dust-proof because of a chemical reaction. Grinding tools are used to grind and polish the surface through a series of steps. Concrete is not considered polished before it reaches 800 grit and often heavy-duty machines are used to get the desired level of smoothness and shine.

The polished concrete surface is used popularly in both residential and commercial areas. You will come across those glossy floors in private residences, hotels and restaurants, large warehouses, office buildings, and showrooms. People prefer these floors because of their competitive advantage and different types of looks. Moreover, they offer cost savings and longer lifecycle as they are more durable and are not vulnerable to damage as other flooring materials. In addition, they are easy to clean and do not support dust, dirt, allergens. What makes them more attractive to the buyer are the different looks, designs, and patterns available in concrete polishing.

Concrete Polishing

Different Design Options in Polished Concrete

Thanks to the advanced technologies and procedures, there is a stunning array of options available for concrete polishing. One can ask for grids, bands, borders, radial lines, and other designs with the stains and dyes of their choice. It is a very easy and effective method to give your old floor a new look and is an ideal flooring material for a range of various applications. One can opt for different colouring with stains and dyes, stencilled graphics, decorative engraving and faux finishes in concrete polishing.

Slip Resistance in Polished Concrete Floors

Many people are anxious to know if polished concrete surfaces are slippery as they look smooth and shiny like glass. Well, they may look glossy, but they are entirely safe to walk on because of their properties of slip resistance and traction. They are completely safe and a lot less slippery when compared to polished marble or waxed linoleum.  However, one can add to the slip-resistance of concrete polishing so as to lower the possibility of any slip-and-fall accidents.

Here are some tips:

• Follow a routine maintenance program for the polished concrete floor
• Keep the floor free of any spills and stains of grease, oil and standing water
• Apply an anti-slip conditioner with special additives to improve traction
• A sealer coat on the concrete polishing floor can work as contains an anti-slip grit additive
• The high-traffic entryways can be covered with rubber mats or area rugs

Wet Vs. Dry Concrete Polishing

Contractors can use wet or dry methods to polish concrete or a combination of both. Diamond abrasives often need water as a coolant and to eliminate grinding dust. As the water acts as a lubricant and lowers friction, it increases the life of the polishing abrasives. There is no need for any water in the dry concrete polishing as the machines are equipped with dust-containment systems. Typically, the dry method is used in the initial stage, and wet polishing is used at a later stage.