Commercial spaces demand flooring solutions that marry durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. Among the array of options available, polished concrete flooring has emerged as a popular choice due to its sleek appearance, longevity, and low maintenance requirements. This article offers an in-depth exploration of the meticulous process that a professional follows when installing commercial polished concrete flooring.
1. Site Assessment and Concrete Preparation:
Before the installation process begins, a thorough site assessment is conducted. This includes evaluating
the existing concrete slab for cracks, surface irregularities, and overall condition. Any necessary repairs
are made, and the surface is prepared by grinding away any existing coatings or adhesives to create a
clean, level substrate.
2. Grinding and Coarse Polishing:
The first step in the polishing process involves using coarse-grit diamond grinding tools to remove a thin layer of the concrete surface. This step not only levels the floor but also exposes the aggregate within the concrete, creating a textured surface. The grinding process is crucial for achieving a flat and even base for the subsequent polishing stages.
3. Concrete Fine Polishing:
After the initial grinding, finer grit diamond tools are employed to refine the surface further. This
process gradually imparts a smoother finish to the concrete and begins to enhance its natural sheen.
The number of polishing steps depends on the desired level of gloss and the concrete’s inherent characteristics.
4. Applying Densifiers to Concrete Surface:
To increase the concrete’s hardness and durability, a liquid chemical known as a densifier is applied to the surface. This substance penetrates the concrete, reacting with the minerals to create a denser, more abrasion-resistant surface. Densifiers also contribute to the overall longevity of the polished concrete flooring.
5. Stain and Color Application (Optional):
Depending on the design goals, stains or color dyes may be applied to the polished concrete surface. This optional step allows for customization, enabling the creation of unique patterns, designs, or the replication of the appearance of natural stone.
6. Concrete Fine Polishing and Sealing:
The polishing process continues with progressively finer diamond tools until the desired level of sheen is
achieved. A final polishing step is crucial for maximizing the reflectivity and shine of the polished
concrete. Following this, a sealer is applied to protect the surface from stains, spills, and wear, while also
enhancing the gloss.
7. Polished Concrete Maintenance and Post-Installation Care:
Once the installation is complete, professionals provide guidelines for routine maintenance to ensure
the longevity of the polished concrete flooring. This typically involves regular cleaning, using appropriate
pH-balanced cleaners to preserve the shine and protect the sealed surface.
8. Quality Assurance:
Professional installers follow strict quality assurance protocols throughout the process. This includes
inspecting the surface at each stage, ensuring that the desired finish is achieved, and addressing any
imperfections promptly. Quality assurance is crucial to delivering a polished concrete floor that meets or
exceeds the client’s expectations.
9. Everlast Contractors Ongoing Support and Consultation
A professional installation doesn’t end with the completion of the project. Reputable contractors
provide ongoing support and consultation to address any concerns, offer maintenance advice, and
ensure client satisfaction. This commitment to customer service is a hallmark of a professional
installation.
The installation of commercial polished concrete flooring is a meticulous and multi-step process that
demands precision, expertise, and attention to detail. From the initial site assessment to the final
polishing and sealing, each stage contributes to creating a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and low-maintenance flooring solution. Hiring a professional ensures that the installation is executed with the
skill and craftsmanship required to achieve the desired results, transforming concrete into a
sophisticated and enduring surface for commercial spaces.
Everlast Industrial Flooring is an industrial flooring contractor located in the heart of Glastonbury, CT,
started by Nick and Shannon Psaras in 2008. The Psaras Family has formed a unique non-franchise
business from their years of expertise along with their heart and soul put into their organization.
Everlast has always been a believer in making an impression that lasts, and with extensive training in
new innovative techniques, they are expected to be the best in the industry.
Reach out to us today to inquire about our durable commercial flooring options; we’re not limited to polished concrete.