Concrete flooring

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You see it everywhere. Polished concrete is definitely the trend right now to achieve the upmarket industrial look that is so highly sought after. The concrete can be either fully polished or a grind and seal finish can be installed. The concrete is polished through the use of large grinding machines that cut through the concrete to expose the aggregates within the slab. The concrete can be ground to varying depths depending on the desired look and the clients budget. For example, a salt and pepper finish is where the aggregates are just starting to be exposed (this is most popular). A full depth grind, where the aggregates are cut nearly in half is more expensive as it is more time consuming, creates more waste, and puts far more wear on the grinding equipment. What’s the difference between a full polish and a grind and seal? FULL POLISHED CONCRETE This is the higher end of the two. With a full polish, the surface is ground to the depth where the desired aggregate exposure is achieved. Then the surface is passed over by the machines in stages, gradually smoothing the surface of the concrete to a point where it is so dense and smooth that it reflects like glass. Very popular in high traffic settings like supermarkets. GRIND AND SEAL A very similar look to the above but less expensive. The surface is ground to the desired depth, then passed over enough times that it is ready for a topical coating. Depending on the client’s needs and budget, the sealer may be a polyurethane, epoxy or an acrylic. The high gloss look can still be achieved, but without the same cost as a full polish. This is far more popular than a full polish.