It is not surprising that the idea of a concrete to decorate floors will lift many eyebrows. Generally, we view the concrete as the construction material - not an esthetic product for indoors. However, if you go to many shopping centers you can appreciate what concrete polished floors can achieve. The material is flawless, beautiful and virtually maintenance free. What's more there are multiple patterns for concrete polished floors which will enhance the look further.
The process of concrete polishing is achieved with a chemical densifier and ground. Concrete polishers sand the concrete using a diamond grinder. They will smooth the product to the minimum level of 400 grit. However, many customers want the quality of 800, 1500 or even 3000 grit levels. The smooth, compact and the glossy concrete polished floors can further be enhanced with designs such as:
There is more benefits to have concrete polished floors than to install any other product.
Virtually there is no need for the maintenance.
The liquid spillages, dropped objects and weather conditions have very little impact on the product.
Pests, heat and cold will not affect the performance of the concrete material.
In most cases, concrete polishing is done once.
For busier areas, simple care products and waxing is sufficient to maintain the concrete polished floors.
As in the case of the polished timber, concrete polished floors also reduce dust mite and other allergens associated with asthma.
Yet, the termites danger for this flooring material is non-existent.
Concrete polishers start the processing by cutting the floor 3-4 times.
Then they grout the surface to achieve smooth consistency.
It is paramount that imperfections and bubbles are tackled at this level.
Next, the concrete is cut few more times.
Concrete polishers add the densifier (or hardener).
It is this material which gives this beautiful, glossy character to the floor.
At this stage, concrete polishers will leave the floor to settle for 24 hours.
Further cutting and grinding follows.
Finally, the concrete polished floors are sealed to prevent water and oil staining.
The method does require a professional expertise and the DIY option for the newbie is not recommended.
Almost any concrete can be polished.
However, the DIY option is suitable for someone who has done the project in the past.
Therefore, most of us should consider external contractors.
A lot of online concrete polishers charge $20 per hour.
However, this is limited to the actual grinding and polishing.
The material, leveling and sealing products will substantially add to the price.
Therefore, to fully install concrete polished floors you need about $80 per hour.
It is expensive, but the work will not need maintenance in the near future (in many cases can outlive the owner).
There are heaps of concrete polishers around major metropolitan areas of Australia. You should hire them locally to reduce the cost of the transport. Among decent Melbourne contractors we would recommend: Polished Concrete, Polished Concrete Concepts and Atomic Concrete Polishing. Some reputable Sydney concrete polishers are: Floor Grinding Services, My Polished Concrete and Professional Concrete Polishing.