Everything you need to know about Concrete Polishing/Concrete Grinding
Polished concrete is gaining momentum in residential areas. It is an industrial, stripped back, raw look that is growing more popular each year. What once was only done in showrooms and shops is now a common feature in premium homes both indoors and out.
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Read below to find out more about polished concrete and the different methods that we apply to meet your needs.
Your Floor, your Options.
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First, Choose your Aggregate Exposure:
Class A – No exposure: Polished surface resulting in little-to-no aggregate exposure. Some light sand exposure.
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Class B – Minimum exposure: Removes approximately 1-3mm of the concrete surface by grinding and polishing. This results in the majority of exposure displaying fine sand aggregate with little-to-no medium aggregate in random locations. Light aggregate exposure with some cream.
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Class C – Medium exposure: A deeper aggregate exposure, removes approximately 3-4mm of concrete and consists of a mixture of light to heavy aggregate exposure. This level of exposure is typically expected on remodel work where glues, adhesives, or other floors have been installed in the past.
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Class D – Full exposure: Removes not more than 4-6mm of the concrete surface by grinding and polishing. This results in the majority of exposure displaying large aggregate with little-to-no fine aggregate in random locations. Heavy aggregate exposure with some light sand.
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Basically, after getting your aggregates exposed, we seal the concrete with a clear coating to get the GRIND AND SEAL METHOD. This method is a more cost-effective option of getting a similar finish. The process involves a clear coating to be applied to the top of the concrete, which will wear away over time. It can also have a non-slip grip added and can be used both indoors and outdoors. It is very popular now for garages, driveways, shops, restaurants, bars, homes and offices.
Additionally, the mechanically polished concrete is a more high-end finish and is for indoors only. In this process, it is the actual concrete itself that shines. There is no topical coating that is applied, and therefore the finish will last you a lifetime if cared for and maintained properly.
Second, Choose your Shine:
Matte
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Matte Finish polishing produces a concrete floor with a soft, matte finish that is easy to maintain. This option is popular in residential and industrial settings and is the most economical finish level.
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Low Sheen/Semi-Gloss
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The surface will have a much higher sheen than that of Matt finish, and you’ll start to see good light reflectivity. at a distance of 1m to 1.5m, the floor will clearly reflect side and overhead lighting.
High Gloss
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Super Sheen polishing produces a highly- polished surface that reflects colour, light, and objects in a mirror-like reflection. This is a popular flooring option for museums, schools, and anywhere a stunning finish is desired.
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