Polished Concrete

Polished concrete is a progressive process that involves diamond grinding that starts at a level necessary to open the concrete, and ends at the level of a clients expectations for finish, reflection and functionality. The process begins with the use of coarse diamond segments bonded in a metallic matrix. The segments are coarse enough to remove minor pits, blemishes, stains, or light coatings from the floor, giving it a smooth feel. Depending on the condition of the concrete, this initial rough grinding is generally a three- to four-step process. The next steps involve fine grinding of the concrete surface using diamond abrasives embedded in a plastic or resin matrix. Crews use ever-finer grits of polishing disks (a process called lapping) until the floor has the desired sheen. For an extremely high-gloss finish, a final grit of 1500 or finer may be used. Experienced polishing crews know when to switch to the next-finer grit by observing the floor surface and the amount of material being removed.

From cream finishes to exposed, decorative aggragate looks, diamond grinding will give a smooth, reflective surface. After initial grinds, a hardener or “densifier” is added to strengthen the surface of the floor against impact and traffic. Progressive grinds with resin diamonds are then used to “close” the floor, that is tighten the pores of concrete to reduce the ability of dust and other contaminants to penetrate dulling or staining the floor. This process results in a higher reflection thus giving the impression of being “pollished”. A final penetrating seal coat is added to add to the lustere and protection of the floor. 

• Cost savings: Using the slab on grade as the finished floor surface is more cost effective, maintenance costs are lower
• More resistant to high foot traffic. Floors don’t have to be periodically stripped and waxed, which saves time and money and reduces slip and fall accidents from wet floors.
• Less maintenance and longer service life: Polished floors are easy to clean, requiring only occasional damp mopping. They also eliminate the need for messy waxes or coatings as well as the associated labor, time, and expense to apply them. The glossy surface of polished concrete resists the marks of forklift truck tires and staining from oil and chemical spills.
• Resistant to moisture transmission issues: Polished concrete allows the floor to breathe and eliminates issues that arise with other flooring materials that seal off the concrete, such as tile, etc.
• High light reflectivity: Important for office building floors, hotels, restaurants, and other public facilities that want to project a bright, clean, professional image. Also saves energy by reducing artificial lighting requirements
• Is a sustainable flooring alternative: Polished concrete does not require hazardous coatings, cleaners or adhesives and can contribute to LEED projects

Is polished concrete slippery?

Because of polished concrete’s unique shine and slick appearance, many people question if it is a slippery surface. When the concrete is clean and dry, it is generally no more slippery than plain concrete surfaces. In fact, polished concrete tends to be less slippery than waxed linoleum or polished marble. Typically polished concrete will test well above .51 COF (Coefficient of slip), the minimum accepted level of safety for any floor.

There are anti-slip conditioners that can be applied to a polished concrete floor for extra protection against accidents. The special additives in these products are designed to improve traction and make wet surfaces safer. They don’t require any additional cleaning needs than the usual damp mopping during routine cleanings. However, they must be reapplied periodically.

What is the best way to maintain polished concrete?

Maintenance for polished concrete is very minimal. Regular care includes using a dust mop or micro fiber mop, and occasional damp mopping to remove dust or grit. Some contractors recommend a neutral pH cleaner and conditioner that cleans the surface, and leaves behind a dirt-resistant film.

Except for high traffic areas, polished concrete will keep its shine for years. If it should ever dull, it is easy to restore. Sometimes simply burnishing of the floor with a diamond polishing pad will do the trick. If more touch-up is necessary, the floors can be lightly repolished with a fine-grit abrasive.

How can Polished Concrete be decorated?

Polished concrete can be enhanced through scoring, or cutting lines and patterns into the concrete surface. Designs include grids, borders, banding, and radial lines. Dyes and stains can be used to accent the panels or banding.
If the decision is made to polish concrete in advance of the concrete being poured, there is a stunning array of available options:

• Colored aggregate can be applied to the concrete mix or seeded into the top layer of the mix. The polishing process will reveal these aggregate.
• Integrally colored concrete can be used.
• Glass can be seeded into the mix. The polishing process will reveal the glass pieces.
• Nails, bolts, computer chips, or any other objects can be seeded into the mix and then polished smooth
• Of course, any of these options can be combined together or into a pattern.

Where are polished concrete floors a solid option?

• Large warehouses and warehouse outlets
• Retail stores
• Hotels and restaurants
• Office buildings
• Auto showrooms
• Manufacturing production floor areas
• Sports/Entertainment Centers
• Churches
• Schools
• Hospitals
• Transportation Terminals/Baggage handling areas
• Food Production Facilities
• Private residences