Polished concrete is an increasingly popular flooring material. It has a range of benefits that make it ideal for commercial and manufacturing facilities, shops, warehouses and even some domestic environments.
What is the life expectancy of polished concrete?
The most obvious advantage of Polished concrete over other flooring materials is its longevity and cost-effectiveness. A high-quality polished concrete floor will last for years and require very little maintenance.
Another benefit of polished concrete is its environmental friendliness. It requires very little material to produce, is a good thermal mass and can help with energy costs.
Unlike tile floors, polished concrete does not crack. However, it is prone to moisture damage and can be susceptible to mold and mildew growth. This can be mitigated by using a good quality waterproof sealant on the surface of the floor.
The grit level that is used in the concrete grinding and polishing process determines how smooth and reflective a floor will be. A lower grit level produces a more matte finish while a higher grit level will create a glossier finish.
It is also important to note that not all existing concrete is suitable for grinding and polishing. The quality of the slab, the existing finish, and a variety of other variables will influence the final results. A new concrete slab that is poured with specifications designed for polishing will eliminate a large number of these variables and provide improved finish results.