Polished Concrete

Concrete has long been known for its durability and cost-saving features. With modern technologies, businesses and homeowners are finding they can harness these advantages of concrete on their floor along with many other added benefits. Polished concrete is a popular alternative to other flooring materials because of three noteworthy benefits: lower total cost, lower maintenance, and aesthetics.

Polished concrete’s superior durability and performance have made it a top finish for retail stores, warehouses, office facilities, and municipalities. Homeowners, as well, are selecting these smooth, high-luster floors that imitate the look of polished stone.

Polished concrete floors are striking in appearance. The exposure of the aggregate in the concrete unveils a look of stone. There are a variety of colors available on the market to modify the color and look of the polished floor. There are also various levels of sheen depending on the degree of reflectivity and shine that is desired. It can be polished to look similar to polished marble or granite.

It’s important when choosing polished concrete to also understand that polishing can expose some of the concrete’s imperfections. You must be comfortable with the theme of the concrete. Polishing can sometimes produce rustic-looking results, and imperfections will show. The floor must fit the character of the space. Some of these imperfections may include cracks already existing on the floor, uncovering different types of concrete in places or uneven concrete. These imperfections can be improved, but they will be reflected in the final product. Some people call this “organic” where you see the natural qualities of the concrete. You can see areas of coarser aggregate and unevenness of veins and aggregate. This is often one of the most appealing characteristics for clients who want a natural, but still functional look.

Decorative polished concrete offers several benefits that other flooring materials can’t match, particularly when it comes to durability, performance, and sustainability.

Polished Concrete Benefits

There are four significant reasons why polished concrete is a better alternative as a long-term flooring solution.

Color – Dyes can be added to plain grey concrete during the polishing process to enhance the decorative characteristics of the floor.
Strength – Hardeners are added during the process to increase the strength of the concrete and create a scratch resistant service.
Non Porous – Densifying and hardening the concrete creates a very tight closed surface which protects it from water, oil, chemicals, grease and heat.
Immediate Service – Unlike most floor systems, there is no need to wait for use. Floors can be returned to service directly after the floor is completed.
Environmentally friendly – Polished concrete is LEED friendly. There are no VOC's.(Volatile Organic Compound)