The Benefits of a Polished Floor

A polished floor is a concrete surface that has been physically refined by grinding with progressively finer diamond tooling. Generally, this treatment is done for industrial purposes but can also be applied to residential floors.

The results vary depending on the concrete strength and type. Aggregate exposure, clarity of reflection and dyed color will all impact the look and feel of the floor.

Aesthetics

Concrete polishing offers endless design possibilities that will transform any commercial or residential space. In fact, a polished concrete floor can rival the look of terrazzo at a fraction of the cost.

The polished concrete flooring process uses mechanical tools to grind the surface until it is smooth and shiny. Different levels of shine can be achieved through the use of progressively finer diamond abrasive disks. Architectural documents often specify various amounts of aggregate exposure on polished concrete floors, from level 1 to 4. The higher levels of reflectivity require more skill and time to achieve but offer breathtakingly modern finishes.

To further enhance the aesthetic, dyes or staining can be added to the polishing process. For example, water-based dyes create a marbled finish and solvent dyes provide even color penetration. Glow-in-the-dark aggregates or coatings can also be added to a concrete slab or floor for a unique and eye-catching finish. In addition, engraved, saw-cut, and etched concrete surfaces can add geometric patterns and designs that will make your polished concrete floor stand out.

Durability

Whether it’s for an office or a home, polished floors create a unique industrial vibe that is modern and trendy. They also have a very low moisture tolerance, which means they can’t support mold or mildew growth, making them a great choice for families who have allergies.

In addition to their durability, polished concrete floors are extremely strong and resistant to heavy traffic and equipment, making them an excellent choice for busy commercial areas like warehouses and car showrooms. They’re also easy to maintain, as they won’t need to be replaced like carpets or other types of flooring materials.

When choosing a contractor for your concrete floor polishing project, look for one with experience and a portfolio of successful projects. They should be able to provide references from past clients and should be responsive and transparent throughout the process. They should also be able to provide gloss meter readings after the concrete is finished to ensure it meets minimum standards.

Versatility

Polished floors can be enhanced with dyes and aggregates to suit a wide range of aesthetic preferences. They can also be used to promote branding within a space. These floors are easy to clean, and require less maintenance than other flooring materials. They also allow for a greater level of natural light in spaces and do not trap allergens or dust like carpeting can.

It can be difficult to discern between polished and grind/sealed concrete floors at first glance as they look identical. However, the shine that is achieved on polished concrete is accomplished through a different process than it is for grind/sealed concrete.

The condition of the floor, desired texture, and aesthetics will determine what level of grit the concrete finisher uses during the polishing process. Concrete finishing professionals generally begin with 400-grit resin abrasives and then transition to finer grits. This helps achieve the desired level of gloss and texture for the floor.

Maintenance

Polished floors are extremely durable but they still require a regular cleaning and maintenance routine to keep them looking new. Daily sweeping and mopping with an approved cleaning solution will help to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Ensure you are using a PH-neutral cleaner designed for polished concrete to avoid damage.

Polishing gradually closes the pores of concrete, making it easier to clean and resistant to water penetration. To get the most out of your polished floor be sure to wipe up any spills as soon as they happen. This is especially important with acidic liquids like vinegar and wine as they can discolour or dull the surface if left to penetrate.

Invest in walk off mats at entrances to decrease the amount of dirt that gets tracked onto your polished floors. On a weekly basis, take your cleaning routine a step further and damp mop with a neutral cleaner to remove any stuck-on dirt.

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