It is undeniable; polished concrete floors reign superior among the flooring world. Their stellar features attract spaces of all sizes in various industries. Understanding the science behind polished concrete will reveal the details that make the flooring a top contender.
Let’s take a deeper look into the process behind polished concrete flooring.
The Science Behind the Shine
The polished appearance of concrete is a result of altering the material’s structure. Each step in the polishing process is crucial to achieve a hard, resilient surface, that is durable and simple to keep shining. This scientific approach guarantees that polished concrete floors are next level.
Step 1: Surface Preparation
- Clean the concrete to remove any contaminants such as dirt or oil.
- Strip away any existing coatings, sealers, or adhesives.
- Repair any cracks and holes to create a seamless surface.
Proper surface preparation is key to produce a flawless finish.
Step 2: Grinding
- Grinding is the initial stage of the polishing process.
- Heavy-duty grinding machines are used to get rid of any imperfections and to level the surface.
- The grinding process exposes the aggregate inside of the concrete, which increases the floor’s appearance.
Step 3: Densifying
- A liquid chemical hardener, also known as a concrete densifier, is applied once the grinding process is complete.
- This chemical reacts with calcium hydroxide to form calcium silicate hydrate, which fills the concrete pores to make the surface extremely dense and hard.
- This step is crucial for producing a durable and long-lasting floor.
Step 4: Polishing
- This step transforms the basic concrete into a shiny, reflective surface.
- A polishing machine is utilized with fine grit diamond polishing pads to smooth the surface.
Step 5: Sealing & Protecting
- A stain guard or sealer is applied to the floor after all polishing is complete.
- This protects the surface and repels water and contaminants while also enhancing the floor’s shine and design.
- Sealing the concrete guarantees longevity in functionality and beauty.
Polished concrete flooring is truly a blend of art and science. The meticulous process produces a top tier floor, perfect for any space. Are you ready to test science and invest in polished concrete? At Jack Laurie Group, we’ve got you covered for all your polished concrete needs. From Fort Wayne to Indianapolis, Lafayette, Bloomington, South Bend, and Northwest Indiana, we make spaces better places to work and live!
