The Benefits of Polished Concrete

The polished concrete flooring has become more and more popular in commercial premises like shops or offices, but it is also very suitable for the domestic sphere. It has a similar look to microcement, but with the advantage of a solid construction.

Polished concrete requires a lot of care, as it needs to be properly prepared with different grits in order to obtain maximum clarity and durability. It is more difficult to install than sealed concrete.

Easy to maintain

If you want a floor that is easy to maintain but looks high-end, polished concrete may be the way to go. It’s very durable and can withstand the abuse that is typically placed on commercial or industrial floors. In addition, it’s much more affordable than other flooring options like tiles.

Concrete polishing is not a job for the do-it-yourselfer. Unless you have a background in construction and are comfortable using the necessary tools, it’s best to leave this task to professional contractors. It’s also important to use the right chemicals and pads in order to avoid damaging the surface.

Polished concrete is an excellent choice for retail spaces, auto showrooms, warehouses and large rooms. It can also be used in private homes as a bold and sophisticated alternative to carpeted or upholstered surfaces. The smooth, easy to clean surface doesn’t trap dust mites or collect pet hair and dander, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.

Durable

Polished concrete flooring is a very durable surface that can last for decades. It is resistant to heavy loads and traffic, which is why you often see it in industrial settings. It is also easy to clean and doesn’t need any special treatments to keep it looking fresh. It also eliminates the need for other expensive flooring materials, such as carpet, wood, tile, and linoleum, which require regular steam cleaning and occasional replacement.

Depending on the diamond grit used, polished concrete can range in appearance from matte to a mirror-like finish. The level of sheen and aggregate exposure are chosen based on the needs of your facility. For example, aggregate exposure may be attractive for a restaurant floor, but it could not work well in a manufacturing space where dropped fasteners need to be easily spotted on the floor.

Smoothed microcement is a very similar covering to polished concrete, but it is much easier to apply. It requires no building work and does not need expansion joints, so it can be laid on existing surfaces much faster.

Affordable

Polished concrete is surprisingly more affordable than it looks. It is significantly cheaper than tile flooring, which can be a significant investment in terms of materials and labor. However, the price of polished concrete depends on the level of finish and type of treatment. It is also more expensive than sealed concrete, but it still costs less than carpet.

A concrete floor that has been steel trowelled is the most affordable, but you will pay more for a high gloss, burnished, or honed finish. You can also choose different levels of aggregate exposure, which can affect the aesthetics and durability of your concrete floors.

For example, exposing aggregate may look great in a home office, but it can be unsuitable for a manufacturing space where dropped fasteners are likely to happen. If you want to use a high level of aggregate exposure, consider adding an uncoupling membrane beneath the concrete to prevent damage. This will also save you money on future repairs and replacements.

Versatile

Honed concrete is an increasingly popular flooring choice for both homes and commercial spaces. Its durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance make it a great option for busy environments. The material is also versatile, allowing for various levels of aggregate visibility and colour staining or stamping.

Polished concrete can be used in multiple applications, from interior and exterior pavements to wall coverings and kitchen or bathroom countertops. It is a cost-effective alternative to tile and stone and lasts much longer than carpet. Its reflective surface also improves lighting and reduces the need for artificial illumination, saving energy costs.

Before applying polished cement, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. It is then formworked, a process that takes between five and seven days depending on the size of the area. Mesh is often placed in order to increase the strength and resistance of the finished product. This step is crucial to the success of a polished concrete floor.

from Polished Concrete Newcastle Specialist https://ift.tt/amuHBjk
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