Find a local concrete floor polishing profesional near you

Polished concrete flooring is a shiny, non-porous surface with an industrial-style look. To achieve this flooring, a specialist uses chemical densifiers to fill holes and pores in the concrete. Afterwards, the specialist grinds down the floor with diamond polishing tools until a specific sheen is achieved. The polished concrete floor is then sealed. 

Polished concrete flooring can have a rustic style, variable finish, or exposed aggregate finish. The rustic style finish is an attractive design that’s common in the residential sector. A specialist will need a high standard, power trowel finish to achieve this look. Meanwhile, the variable finish requires an initial light grind and mechanical concrete polishing. The amount of grind will determine the visibility of fine sands and aggregates. An exposed aggregate finish will need a heavy initial grind.

Yes, both new and old concrete floors can be polished, as long as the surface is structurally sound. But not all concrete floors respond well to the polishing process. Polishing results will depend on factors like concrete integrity and the curing process. Also, brand-new floors must be cured for at least 28 days before polishing to ensure good results. Your concrete floor contractor can advise you whether your current flooring is ideal for polishing.

Polished concrete flooring is easy to maintain and can last for up to 20 years or more. Typically, this flooring type does not sustain water damage nor traps allergens. Polished concrete flooring is also versatile and suitable for a variety of residential spaces. Furthermore, polished concrete flooring has a modern, industrial-style design with a finished look.   

Polished concrete can cost anywhere from £80 per m2 to £150 per m2 in countries like the UK. This flooring type is low-maintenance and has a nice stone-style look. Polished concrete is in the same price bracket as high-end stone flooring. But the former does not require you to spend money on screeding the floor first. Therefore, polished concrete flooring costs less money than many other flooring materials. 

It’s best to leave concrete floor polishing to a professional. Many factors go into polishing concrete, such as getting the right amount of sheen and evaluating whether a floor is ideal for polishing. The process also involves the use of specialised equipment. Not to mention, the process can be quite tricky when several additives for colour and slip resistance are needed. A professional concrete floor polisher can ensure you get your desired results.  

Polished concrete floors are generally safe even if they appear slippery, and even at high gloss levels. Research says polished concrete floors meet safety standards for moisture-prone areas. These areas include kitchens and bathrooms. Still, polished concrete can get slippery when wet, but it is no more dangerous than other flooring types like tiles. 

Dust mopping and occasional wet mopping is all you need to maintain polished concrete floors. Polished concrete flooring doesn’t require extensive maintenance, but the floor will look its best with regular cleaning. Dust mopping removes dirt and debris that can deteriorate the flooring over time. Meanwhile, wet mopping from time to time will lift out stubborn particles. Regular cleaning is also key to keeping the polished concrete floor from being slippery.