What is the process for concrete polishing?
The concrete polishing process can be very different depending on each case. There is, however, a very standard way that you can expect the process to go:
  1. Your concrete must be inspected and evaluated. If there are any cracks, scratches, abrasions, or holes, those must be fixed before the process can begin.
  2. Any paints or coatings left on the surface will need to be removed prior to the polishing process.
  3. Once the concrete has been repaired, paints have been removed, and it has been cleaned, the grinding process may begin. The level of grit depends on the sheen you want your concrete to have. This may be discussed with your contractor.
  4. A chemical hardener and densifier are added to your concrete to help improve its resistant qualities.
  5. Polishing is then started and finished.
It is important to remember that each slab of concrete is unique with its own history and these steps may vary.
How long can a polished concrete floor last?
The lifespan of a concrete polished floor depends on many different factors, but its long lifespan is one of the reasons why it has become so popular. Polished floors can last over 20 years, however, that does not mean that is guaranteed. Concrete polished floors should be installed by a professional who has experience with a variety of different concrete floors, meaning, they have dealt with old and new slabs of concrete. Another key factor is maintenance, if you properly maintain an epoxy floor it will last much longer. Even though these floors do not require intense or back-breaking maintenance, it does require some care.
What are the benefits of polished concrete floors?
The many amazing benefits of a polished concrete floor truly begin with proper professional installation and then the maintenance. Both of these factors play large roles in what your concrete polished floors can offer you. The list below includes some but not all of the benefits of a polished concrete floor:
  • Affordability. A polished concrete floor is less expensive to install than other floors because it uses the flooring material already present. The cost of materials and labor is much lower when compared to other flooring installations. The low maintenance and high durability of polished concrete also lower long-term costs.
  • Lifespan. Because a polished concrete floor lasts for many decades, replacement costs are lowered and fewer materials are required regularly.
  • Maintenance. Easy to clean and easy to keep clean. Polished floors do not absorb or retain any oils, stains, grime, grime, or debris.
  • Resistance. Water, chemicals, and foot-traffic cannot wear down a polished concrete floor the way they can other floors. Polished concrete floors are strong and resistant to common damages that would cause some concern on other floors.
  • Water-resistance explained. When your floors are moisture resistant, they do not become susceptible to mold, mildew, or bacteria growth.
  • Aesthetics. Polishing flooring offers many different colors and designs during installation.
Why does concrete crack?
Unfortunately, there isn’t one reason for all as to why concrete cracks. Sometimes the circumstances of cracking concrete are under your control and other times there is nothing you can do about it. Here are some common reasons why your concrete would crack:
  1. Water! If there is too much water in the concrete mixture than it reduces the strength of the overall concrete. As your concrete dries, there is a shrinkage process that occurs but if there is too much water evaporating then your concrete will crack as it dries. This is one reason why it is important to hire a professional to lay your concrete.
  2. Quick drying. Having patience for your concrete to dry when you’re excited to use it can be difficult, but it is necessary. The chemical reaction that takes place when concrete turns from a liquid to a solid requires water and chemical change takes a couple of days to actually finish completely. If there isn’t enough water in your concrete for this hydration process to happen then your concrete has a higher than normal possibility of cracking.
  3. Poor quality. Having a professional pour, the appropriate amount and strength of concrete are important because it reduces the probability of your concrete cracking under different amounts of pressure.
  4. Freeze-thaw. This happens naturally and there is very little that you can do about it. Especially for concrete that is outdoors or garages, the soil underneath will freeze when it is cold and thaw when it is warm, simultaneously your concrete will shrink when it is cold and expand when it is hot. The constant cycle during seasons can cause subtle or major cracks in concrete.
What kind of maintenance is associated with polished concrete floors?
There are many different maintenance advantages to having a polished concrete floor: no grout lines to clean, stain, water, and abrasion resistant, easy and simple cleaning, minimal routine required. Below are some general tips on maintaining a polished concrete floor, but it is always recommended to discuss maintenance tips with your contractor.
  1. Using indoor mats for entryways can help reduce the amount of debris tracked into your space.
  2. Clean spills as soon as they happen.
  3. Do not use cleaners that contain high levels of soap because they will leave streak marks on your polished concrete surface and dull its shine.
  4. Never use cleaners with high acidity because it will eat away at your floors polish.
  5. Mop regularly and sweep daily to keep your floors free from debris.
  6. Leaving cleaners long enough to dry on the surface of your floor is not recommended.
Can concrete polishing remove oil stains?
Polishing concrete, in general, can, in fact, remove stains; however, each situation is different and there are many scenarios that can affect the strength of this answer. Some concrete is brand new and the stain is not a stain at all, or it hasn’t been there for long. There is concrete that is very old and has had a stain for many years where it penetrated and maybe even damaged the concrete in which polishing could dull the stain but not completely remove it. Each case is different and should be evaluated by a professional.
Why should I polish my concrete?
Polishing your concrete floors is an immediate pocket saver and a long-term pocket saver. Floors that have been polished do not damage easily nor do they scratch or wear like other floors. When you choose to polish your floors, you are choosing a long-term solution for your property. With many different colors and designs to choose from with affordable price tags, why wouldn’t you want to polish your floors?
Can you add color to a polished concrete floor?
Polished concrete offers many different possibilities for design, coloring, and more. This is one of the reasons why these floors have become widely popular in commercial and residential settings.
Can you polish a damaged concrete floor?
Polishing damaged concrete floors is not out of the norm but each situation does need to be evaluated before a contractor can confirm or deny polishing. There are some cases where concrete is too far gone and it would be more cost-effective to simply install in a new one, however, there are scenarios where concrete simply needs a few repairs before being polished. Each case is possible.
Can all concrete be polished?
Most concrete can be polished successfully. It is not wise to assure anyone that everything is a 100% guarantee, but it is possible to have most concrete floors polished. Depending on location, age, and damage of the concrete in question.