Polished concrete is a flooring finish that is achieved through the use of specialized equipment and techniques to grind and polish the surface of a concrete slab. The process involves several steps, including:
- Grinding: The surface of the concrete is ground down using a series of progressively finer grit diamond abrasives to remove imperfections, stains, and contaminants and to smooth and level the surface.
- Honing: The surface is honed using finer grit abrasives to further smooth and refine the surface and to achieve a uniform finish.
- Polishing: The surface is polished using ultra-fine grit abrasives and a polishing machine to create a smooth, glossy finish. The level of gloss can be customized to suit different design preferences, ranging from matte to high gloss.
- Densifying: A densifier, or hardening agent, is applied to the surface to improve the performance characteristics of the concrete and make it more resistant to stains and wear. Densifiers work by reacting with the calcium hydroxide in the concrete to create a denser, more durable surface.
- Sealing: The surface is sealed with a protective coating to enhance the appearance and durability of the polished concrete. There are several types of sealers available, including water-based, solvent-based, and penetrating sealers. The type of sealer chosen will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the concrete, as well as the desired level of protection and appearance. Sealers can help protect the concrete from stains, scratches, and wear and tear, and they can also help to maintain the polished finish of the concrete over time.