More and more people are choosing polished concrete flooring solutions to complete the look of their daily living spaces and business locations. The more information they get about this flooring system, the more they want it for their residential and commercial spaces. If you don’t know much about polished concrete flooring, you’re in for a treat. Read on to learn more about this ultimate flooring option.
What is Polished Concrete?
In case you’re not aware, polished concrete refers to a concrete surface that has been mechanically ground and polished to perfection with the use of bonded abrasives. When the surface of the concrete floor has been cut, it is further refined until the level of the desired appearance is achieved. The entire process involves the use of a hardener which works by penetrating into the concrete slab in order to produce a rigid and dust-proof surface.
What are the Benefits of Installing Polished Concrete Flooring?
Strong and Durable
Polished concrete flooring systems are known for their strength and durability. You’ll save a lot of money on maintenance and repairs because this flooring option is built to last.
Resistant to Dust
Ordinary concrete collects dust particles that are pushed towards its surface via hydrostatic pressure. This will cause the epoxies to come off from its surface. On the other hand, you won’t encounter this dusting issue if you have polished concrete flooring with a surface that’s tightly compacted and sealed off.
Resistant to Stains
Since ordinary unpolished concrete floors are porous, they can be easily stained by water, chemicals, oil, and other substances. However, when they’re upgraded to polished concrete, the concrete slab’s porous surface is sealed off and densified, making it impervious to spills and stains.
Enhances Reflectivity and Lighting
Another advantage of having polished concrete flooring is the fact that they effectively improve reflectivity and enhance the ambient lighting in any room. This translates to lower energy bills.
Increases Slip Resistance
Although it has a shiny surface, polished concrete is far from being slippery because of the mechanical grinding and flattening process that was used to produce it. We also use this type of flooring to repair pool leaks.
Low-Maintenance
Other flooring options such as linoleum and tile will have to be scrubbed on a regular basis to keep them looking clean and shiny. When it comes to cleaning tightly compacted polished concrete surfaces, no aggressive scrubbing is needed to maintain their sheen and luster. It’s a perfect choice for those who aren’t willing to spend too much of their time and energy on floor maintenance.
What are the Uses of Polished Concrete?
Residential Uses
Polished concrete works great for your daily living spaces. You’ll love how it will make your kitchen or living room look more elegant and sophisticated.
- Kitchen Space
You’ll thank yourself for installing polished concrete flooring in your kitchen. Aside from the fact that they’re easier to clean, you won’t have to worry about stains and abrasions because this kind of flooring system can stand up to spills and scratches and still look shiny and beautiful for a long time. This is a great choice for families with little kids who are prone to make messes around the kitchen.
- Living Room
For most families, the living room is a place where all the fun takes place. Whether you have toddlers or pets, you won’t have to worry about your polished concrete flooring. The fact that it’s highly resistant from chemicals, waxes, and scratches makes it the perfect surface for playtime. Also, no special treatment is required for maintaining the look of your polished concrete flooring system. Furthermore, this option is a safe choice for those who are prone to allergies because they’re highly resistant to dirt and dust. Unlike other flooring alternatives such as tiles and carpets, polished concrete won’t harbor anything that may trigger an allergic reaction and other respiratory issues. Its smooth and shiny surface prevents dust particles and other allergens from getting stuck in it. Needless to say, the time spent with your family in the comfort of your living room will be a lot safer and more fun if you won’t have to worry about floors getting dirty or kids getting allergies.
- Basement Floors
Many basement floors use polished concrete, stained concrete or epoxy floors. There are benefits to both. Stained basement floors are usually the least expensive and look pretty good. Some people go with polishing, but it doesn’t get that acid stained cool look that many people want in their basements. Epoxy is another option for basement floors. It can look really cool, is extremely durable and also waterproof. It does cost a little more money though.
Benefits of Polished Concrete In Commercial Spaces
- Office Spaces
If you want to perk up the dull and dreary-looking concrete flooring in the hallways and main areas of your place of business, consider upgrading it to polished concrete. Thanks to the aggregate that’s found in the concrete slab, this option features a gorgeous-looking pattern that can add a touch of elegance and style into your commercial space. Since this flooring system is designed to withstand brutal treatment from constant heavy pedestrian traffic and chairs rolling across its surface, you can expect your polished concrete floors to retain their shine and luster for many years.
By this time, you’re probably planning to turn to your trusty smartphone to google, “polished concrete near me”. In a nutshell, a polished concrete flooring system has the ability to transform any functional concrete surface into beautiful and elegant flooring that won’t fail to meet your personal standards and impress your guests or customers.
