Concrete flooring can be utilized in ways to really tie together a room. The unique look of concrete is a modern one that inspires a sense of brutal integrity. Strong features in a room or building are often hard to pair with because that feature is so hard to balance out with or compete with, polished concrete floors are a good solution. While we usually think of concrete as something for more industrial architecture, it is becoming a very chic and designer look for all kinds of interior designs.
Art galleries, upscale condos, apartments, and designer homes are often found to utilize the look of concrete to get that modern look that I mentioned earlier. This look can wow even those who do not know a thing about interior design or flooring. What pushes it over the top is when that concrete flooring is polished. Creating that sleek look is one of the coolest ways to create the base for any kind of room. Polished concrete floors is not as hard as it may seem either.
While it does require some expertise, this article will help you implement tips that will give you the secret for that polished concrete look that will blow people’s minds for whatever it is intended for.
Condition of the concrete
Before polishing the concrete you want to use, or polishing an already existing concrete floor, it should be first priority to check what condition it is in. Any holes, cracks or blemishes should be addressed prior to the polishing process because these damages may impact the overall look or functionality of the polishing process. Grinding down the layer(s) of the concrete that is damaged is not an overly lengthy process. Grinding it down relies on grit level, which is how much polishing power you will be applying to the surface. Higher the grit level or rating, the stronger it will be resulting in a highly glossy and clean look, and the lower will result in a coarser look. This is useful for those tricky surfaces. Likewise, if there are holes or cracks that are not structurally compromising to the concrete, epoxy or another functional filler. However, the best course of action is to contact your local concrete contractor. They can provide you the best option if you want to have a polished concrete patio, for example.
Grind and remove marks
After the concrete floor is inspected and you know the hardness and condition of it, you should then begin grinding it away in stages of grit level. For the purpose of polishing your concrete floor, you need to be using a very high grit level towards your last stage in the polishing process. For the beginning, you will be grinding the surface down at lower grit to remove any of those inconsistencies in the concrete structure. Afterwards, you will be polishing with higher grit level while applying a chemical hardener to give the concrete the polished look you desire.
This resin is applied through a diamond abrasive, for more information on the scale of grit-diamond. carrdiamond.com, is a good place to figure out the polish level you want. It’s good to be aware of these levels, as each level is notably different from another. After all of your grinding is done, you remove the tool marks in the process, and polish the surface, you will apply a coating for a glossy look to help maintain the surface. Densifying the floor is also an important process you must do, as well as vacuuming the surfaces. Ensuring a clean surface, like stated prior, will keep you and your workers from any health problems (make sure you are always wearing the proper protective gear). It is also a safety issue to have a dirty surface because of the powerful equipment you will be using.
Choosing your design
This is done around the same time as your polishing. Your design can range in colors and patterns and will be implemented before the last coating is done. The best way to decide on your pattern is by drawing inspiration from other sources. Online there are thousands of images of what polished concrete floors look like and you will be able to decide what kind of look you are going for. This will be polished over and given that glossy design that you see in many retail areas (malls) and office buildings (lobbies), as well as hotels. Polished concrete is an outstanding way to give your business, or clients business, a standout floor. Not many people consider the ground they walk on to be so important, but when you see how beautiful a glossy concrete floor looks with the right color pattern or design, you understand how it can magnify the importance or feeling of a room.
The secrets to creating a polished concrete floor are not as hard to find as many think. The tips here have hopefully helped you figure out the process in which to follow for your own glossy-look floor that will sure to be a design marvel for anyone that lays their eyes on. The proper tools, which are used for grit-diamond abrasion, are determined by the ability to polish or grind down the concrete. Knowing what level of grind, then polish, will help you achieve the look you desire.
Make sure you do a thorough check on the quality of your concrete you are using. Removing the dust, grinding down the holes and cracks until you have it just right, and using any fillers to correct any small lingering imperfections. The higher grit you polish with will produce the glossiest and cleanest look, which will then be followed by the resin coating to ensure that glossy look maintains its shine. Your design will be incorporated into this coating and from there you will have picked a color and style which you can easily get inspiration from in online searches or from on-site research at places that use polished concrete floors.
Getting the most out of your polished concrete flooring is the end goal. Whether it is for an art gallery, a museum, hotel, mall, business or private residence, nothing can outmatch the look of the sheen polished concrete has. With these secrets, you can achieve even the most professional look as well.