Concrete polishing is a process that transforms a rough concrete slab into a smooth, shiny surface with increased aesthetic appeal and durability. This is achieved through grinding the concrete with progressively finer grinding tools until a desired level of smoothness and gloss is reached. The process involves several steps:
Grinding: The concrete is initially ground with coarse diamond segments that are bonded in a metallic matrix. These segments help to remove any minor pits, blemishes, stains, or light coatings from the surface, preparing it for further refinement.
Honing: After the initial rough grind, the surface is honed with finer grit diamond abrasives, which smooth the concrete and begin to add shine. This stage may include several passes with different grits to refine the surface further.
Polishing: Once honing is complete, even finer grits of diamond abrasives are used. This stage is often performed with diamond abrasives bonded in a resin matrix. Polishing brings out more of the concrete's natural luster and increases the shine to the desired level.
Densifying: During the process, a chemical hardener or densifier is often applied to the concrete. This liquid penetrates the concrete and produces a chemical reaction that helps to harden and densify the concrete surface, making it stronger and more resistant to water, oil, and other contaminants.
Sealing: The final step is to apply a sealer, which enhances the glossy surface and provides additional protection against staining and wear. Sealers can be topical or penetrating, depending on the level of protection needed and the desired aesthetic.
Polished concrete floors are popular in commercial and residential buildings due to their durability, ease of maintenance, and the ability to customize their appearance. They are a sustainable flooring option as they leverage the existing concrete slab and reduce the need for additional coverings. Polished concrete is also highly valued for its cost-effectiveness and for promoting indoor air quality by minimizing dust and allergens.
