Concrete has always been known for its durability and cost-saving features. However with modern technologies good old concrete is becoming known for its creative possibilities. The most well known of these is polished concrete which can have a striking appearance.Factor in the superior durability and performance of concrete, and it's no wonder why more retail, warehouse, and office facilities are opting for polished concrete flooring as an alternative to marble, granite, tile, linoleum, or coated concrete. Even homeowners are catching on to the appeal of these smooth, high-luster floors, which can be stained to replicate the look of polished stone.
Polished concrete's smooth, high-luster finish, its superior durability and performance have made it a top finish for offices, retail stores, warehouses and homes. Stains can be used to modify the color and look of a polished floor. There are also various levels of shine or degree of reflectivity that can be achieved by grinding to higher levels.
Polished concrete floors are very economical, durable, and traffic-friendly. Unlike other floor surfaces, polished concrete floors can last up to ten years or longer before needing to be refinished. Maintaining on a polished floor is minimal, thereby reducing costs associated with keeping floors clean.
The noteworthy benefits of polished concrete are that it has a lower total cost, has a lower maintenance schedule, and it meets and exceeds all "Green" standards for Energy efficiency and Environmental Design.
It's important when choosing polished concrete to understand that the polishing process will expose some of the concrete's imperfections.
Polishing can produce rustic-looking results, and imperfections. Polished Concrete has to fit the character of the space you are using it for. Some refer to this as organic where you see the natural qualities of the concrete with areas of coarser aggregate and unevenness of veins and aggregate. This is often one of the most appealing characteristics for people who want a natural and functional look.
Remember that polished concrete contains no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which makes it an environmentally friendly surface.
Can My Concrete Be Polished?
Almost any concrete floor can be polished as long as the concrete is structurally sound. Our experts at TTM Finishes Inc can inspect your floor and let you know if its suitable for polishing. Often dirt, grease, coatings, and blemishes can be removed in the grinding process. Types of floors that are not suitable for polishing include those that are extremely wavy, need extensive patching, or are extremely porous.