Originally utilized as a method of preparing concrete floors prior to resurfacing, concrete polishing has evolved into an decorative treatment for new and old concrete. The process turns dull concrete into shiny and attractive floors, suitable for commercial spaces and even homes. The floors are durable and relatively easy to maintain. Polished concrete also has sustainable design features when rehabbing an existing building, since reusing or recycling the old concrete floors minimizes the environmental impact compared to the construction a completely new floor.
Concrete Grinding and polishing concrete requires specialized equipment and experience installers. This process is not recommended as a do-it-yourself project. Diamond impregnated concrete grinder discs, ranging from coarse to fine grit, are consecutively run over the floor while attached to a walk behind disc grinder. The initial coarse grit levels the floor and the subsequent finer grit pads polish the surface. New concrete floors are the best candidate for polishing. Concrete floors that are extensively cracked, oily and greasy, patched or otherwise damaged, will yield less than ideal results. Even concrete floors that have been painted, coated or waxed will require additional preparatory treatments prior to concrete polishing. The process works well with gray concrete, integrally colored concrete and topically stained concrete.
Concrete is a naturally porous building material. Using a Concrete grinder opens the pores near the surface, exposing the concrete to dirt and wear. An important and required final step in the polishing process is the application of a liquid hardener and densifier. This chemical reacts within the concrete pores and strengthens the surface, providing enhanced wear-ability, greater resistance to dirt, and contributes to the high-gloss look of the finished concrete floor. Though very durable, polished concrete floors do require regular dry and wet mopping. Acid based cleaners should never be used. It is important to discuss the maintainable requirements of your floor with the polishing contractor.
Concrete polishing creates a look that can be visually compared to polished granite, but at a fraction of the cost. It is very natural looking, and even more so when the concrete is colored. Even though it is very shiny, the polished surface is safe to walk on. Extensive use in grocery stores, big-box stores, schools and other highly trafficked areas, attest to its cost effectiveness, attractiveness and safety.
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Tags: concrete, Concrete Grinder, Concrete Grinding, Concrete Polishing
