Concrete is a flooring widely adopted in industrial constructions, due to its durability and robustness.
The issue is its porous nature: the surface tends to absorb stains and chemicals, which is not only unsightly but also harmful to the floor’s structure.
The solution is to polish the concrete.
In this article, we will delve into the composition of polished concrete, the polishing process, and why this treatment gives the floor exceptional resilience.
The Composition of Polished Concrete
Concrete is a mix of cement, water, sand, and gravel. When poured and beginning to set, it forms a robust and porous surface, thus having pores or tiny holes.
Polished concrete, on the other hand, is the result of mechanically polishing this concrete surface.
Polishing Step by Step
Concrete polishing involves using abrasive discs of increasing fineness to polish and smooth the concrete.
Here’s how it works:
- Floor Preparation: Before starting, the concrete surface must be cleaned to remove debris and dirt, including dust.
- Initial Polishing: Coarse-grit discs remove imperfections and prep the floor for subsequent stages.
- Fine Polishing: Using finer-grit discs, the surface is polished until the desired finish is achieved.
- Densifier: To densify the surface and make it less porous, a densifier penetrates the concrete, filling its pores, creating a barrier against contaminants.
- Final Polishing: Once the densifier is dry, a final polish is done to achieve a sleek, shiny finish.
See how it looks in this video:
Why is Polished Flooring Stain-resistant?
Thanks to the densifier, the surface becomes not only smooth but also dense and non-porous. This means liquids, oils, or contaminants stay on the surface and don’t penetrate. Hence, stains cannot settle in.
Which Industries Find Polished Concrete Beneficial?
Polished concrete is perfect for industries requiring a sturdy, attractive, and easily maintained surface. Such as:
Distribution Centres: The floors are constantly under the stress of forklifts.
Food Processing Industry: Hygiene is paramount, and spills are common.
Machine Shops: Oils and chemicals are frequently in use.
Shopping Centres and Shops: Polished concrete provides a modern aesthetic and ease of maintenance.
Garages and Carparks: Polished concrete is beneficial due to its resistance to oil stains and wear.
Conclusion
Polished concrete is a meticulous polishing process that includes the application of a densifier. It’s an ideal flooring for many industries.
