Benefits of Polished Concrete Flooring

Benefits of Polished Concrete Flooring

Concrete is used in a wide variety of different applications, from a concrete highway to a building’s foundation. However, concrete is also useful as a flooring choice. Its incredibly strong molecular structure makes it suitable for industrial and business flooring applications, especially if heavy equipment will be driven across it, such as forklifts. But, what if it could be enhanced to have an aesthetically appealing appearance, much like marble floors? Concrete polishing is the answer.

Concrete polishing is the process of grinding down the bare surface with various blade sizes, much like sanding a piece of wood. Workers will bring in grinding machines and affix a rough blade to the grinder mechanism. This blade will pass along the concrete surface which will slowly chip away the top layer or layers. Depending on the concrete’s quality, the machine will pass over multiple times with increasingly smaller blade sizes; the fine polishing will produce an incredibly smooth surface. A liquid densifier may be applied afterward to create a glossy sheen and add strength to the porous concrete.

Where would concrete polishing applications be appropriate? Almost any concrete floor can be polished, if desired. Older concrete, as well as overlays like self leveling concrete, can be easily replenished with a polishing job. Retail spaces enjoy the tough flooring since foot traffic will not damage it like other floor covering choices. Industrial companies cannot lay hardwood or linoleum; concrete is their best choice for a durable floor option. Even homeowners enjoy polished concrete for its durability, as well as its variety of color choices.

Color choices? Isn’t concrete just gray, you may ask? In fact, concrete polishing professionals can easily dye or stain the concrete after the polishing is complete. Similar to picking a paint tone, there is a large choice of colors for concrete, from red to beige. Depending on the contractor, the dye or stain can be applied through a powdered material or liquid concentration. Once it dries, it can be buffed into a matte or gloss finish, based on the customer’s desires.

Engravings can also be added to the polished concrete floor for an added flair. Many businesses choose this option so that their logo can be permanently etched into the concrete for a fashionable and unique advertising strategy. Homeowners may want a more decorative look by adding flower shapes or abstract designs.

Why do many consumers choose to polish their concrete? Although concrete is naturally strong, polishing off the top layer of the flooring increases the molecular strength after it is densified. As a result, the concrete is not as permeable to damaging grease or food items. In addition, room lighting is enhanced from the reflective surface of the concrete, even if it has a matte finish. Do you have a tendency to fall on slippery floor types, such as vinyl? Even after concrete polishing, the floor retains enough friction for a safe walking area.

If you are interested in concrete polishing your floors, give us a call to discuss the options and the appropriate system and professional to help you with your project. Contact us to discuss your project. We have experienced installers throughout USA & Canada. If you plan on doing it yourself, you may want to watch these videos in our Video Gallery.