Do cracks, divots, and other imperfections make your concrete floor difficult to keep clean? Does it look dull and uninviting? If so, your surfaces may benefit from polished cement floors. Keep reading to learn more about this process and how it can help you achieve the perfect floor.
What Are Polished Cement Floors?
Polished cement floors involves grinding down a cement surface to reveal a fresh, new layer. This technique can work for interior and exterior surfaces, from patios and driveways to basement floors. Professionals can hone and polish the material further to create a smooth, glossy finish.
Let’s go over the step-by-step process of polishing cement:
First Cut Polished Cement Floors
Professionals begin by grinding down the surface using a metal-bond diamond concrete grinder with a 20/30 grit level. This step eliminates uneven spots and strips away old coatings and also “opens up” the pores of the concrete to allow for better penetration during the next steps.
Grouting Polished Cement Floors
If the first cut makes cracks, air pockets, holes, or other visible damage, the surface will need grouting. While the grout is still wet, professionals will go over it with a 100/120 grinder to fill in the pores. Then, they clean the whole surface until it’s free of any residue.
Applying Densifier
With the surface fully prepped, it’s time to apply the densifier. This resin soaks into the pores of the concrete and hardens it, making it less susceptible to staining and deterioration. Once the densifier dries, professionals use a higher-grit grinder to remove scratches and smoothen the surface further.
Polishing
The fully resin-bonded floor is now ready for concrete polishing. Depending on your preferred sheen and texture, the polishing process can involve different grinders and abrasives.
An 800-grit resin pad, for example, will create high-gloss concrete surfaces, and 400-grit makes a low-gloss finish.
Applying Sealant
To protect the surface, professionals apply a sealer after polishing. This clear coat helps the floor resist staining, fading, and other forms of damage. Depending on the product used, curing can take hours or days.
The Benefits of Polished Cement Floors
Polished concrete flooring can make a drab space feel brand new. You can choose different sheens, colors, and finishes to create the perfect look for your business or home. Aside from visual appeal, it also offers many functional benefits:
Enhanced Durability
Polished concrete can withstand heavy foot traffic, equipment, and furniture without showing signs of wear and tear — which is why most factories, warehouses, and other commercial spaces opt for polished concrete flooring. It’s almost impossible to chip or scratch and won’t corrode when exposed to chemicals.
Low Maintenance
You won’t need to wax, seal, or power wash these floors. A simple mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner is all it takes to keep them looking new. The smooth, even surface also makes it easier to clean, so you can say goodbye to those pesky nooks and crannies.
Extra Illumination
The highly reflective surface of polished concrete also amplifies the light in a room, making it seem brighter and more spacious. It’s perfect for small spaces that need a little visual “pick-me-up.” It can also lower your energy consumption because you won’t need to rely as much on artificial lighting.
Lengthened Lifespan
Polished concrete surfaces last much longer than their bare counterparts. When properly installed and maintained, they can serve you for decades.
Improved Safety
Many assume that polished concrete feels slippery, but that’s not the case. Professionals can apply a slip-resistant coating during installation to reduce the risk of nasty falls.
Reduced Allergy and Asthma Symptoms
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, polished concrete might be the perfect flooring solution for you. Its non-porous surface doesn’t trap dust, pollen, and other allergens that can trigger an attack.
Affordability
Instead of spending money on expensive flooring materials, you can simply refurbish your existing concrete surfaces. This project is very cost-effective in the long run, saving you from premature replacement.
Trusted Polished Cement Floors in Ohio
At Premier Concrete Coatings LLC, we specialize in refreshing surfaces for both residential and commercial properties. We can grind concrete to create a smooth, glossy finish or go for a more textured look. We also offer a wide range of colors and sheens to choose from.
If you’re looking to enhance the curb appeal of your property or want a durable, low-maintenance flooring solution, contact us today at (614) 918-7345 in Columbus, OH. Our team of experts will be more than happy to assess your needs and recommend the best concrete polishing option. We look forward to serving you!
