Concrete Polishing FAQ

Question 1

How long does polished concrete last compared to other flooring options?

Accepted Answer

Polished concrete floors can last 20+ years with proper maintenance, far exceeding carpet (5-10 years), vinyl flooring (10-15 years), or epoxy coatings (10-15 years). The durability and minimal maintenance requirements make it one of the most cost-effective flooring solutions over its lifetime, with lifecycle costs 50-70% lower than alternatives.

Question 2

What level of shine can be achieved with concrete polishing?

Accepted Answer

We offer four standard gloss levels measured by gloss meter readings: Level 1 (flat/matte, 0-25 units) provides a ground appearance; Level 2 (satin, 25-50 units) offers low sheen; Level 3 (semi-gloss, 50-70 units) delivers moderate reflection; Level 4 (high-gloss, 70+ units) achieves a mirror-like finish perfect for showrooms and retail spaces. Most commercial applications choose Level 3 or 4.

Question 3

Can damaged or stained concrete be polished?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most concrete damage including cracks, spalls, &stains can be repaired before polishing. We use professional patching compounds color-matched to the surrounding concrete, structural crack fillers, &specialized densifiers to restore the surface. Decorative options like integral staining or dyeing can transform imperfections into design features.

Question 4

How does polished concrete compare to epoxy coatings?

Accepted Answer

Polished concrete offers superior longevity (20+ years vs 10-15 for epoxy) and requires no recoating. While epoxy provides excellent chemical resistance, polished concrete offers better abrasion resistance, no peeling or delamination issues, &maintains its appearance without yellowing. Polished concrete is also more sustainable and qualifies for LEED credits.

Question 5

What maintenance is required for polished concrete floors?

Accepted Answer

Polished concrete requires minimal maintenance: daily dust mopping with microfiber pads, weekly damp mopping with neutral pH cleaner (pH 7-10), &immediate spill cleanup. We recommend quarterly auto-scrubbing for high-traffic areas and periodic burnishing to maintain gloss levels. Reapplication of protective guard every 1-2 years extends floor life.

Question 6

Is concrete polishing environmentally friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, concrete polishing is one of the most sustainable flooring options available. It utilizes existing concrete slabs eliminating new material production, requires no additional floor coverings, produces minimal waste, uses no VOCs during application, &the reflective surface reduces lighting energy costs by up to 30%. Projects typically qualify for multiple LEED credits.

Question 7

Can concrete stains and dyes be combined with polishing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We offer integral concrete staining and dyeing that penetrate the surface and become part of the polished floor. Acid stains create organic, variegated earth tones, while water-based dyes offer vibrant, consistent colors. Both options are applied during the polishing process and sealed permanently within the floor surface.

Question 8

How do polished concrete floors perform with forklift traffic?

Accepted Answer

Polished concrete excels under forklift and heavy equipment traffic. The densification process increases surface hardness by 40% (typically achieving 7-9 on the Mohs scale), while the smooth surface reduces tire wear and rolling resistance. We recommend specifying appropriate joint treatments and anti-dusting densifiers for heavy industrial applications.

Question 9

What is the difference between cream polish and aggregate polish?

Accepted Answer

Cream polish maintains the original concrete surface showing minimal aggregate exposure—ideal for newer, well-finished slabs. Salt &pepper exposure reveals fine aggregate particles. Aggregate polish exposes larger decorative stone creating a terrazzo-like appearance. Exposure level depends on grinding depth—we can create custom looks by exposing specific aggregate sizes.

Question 10

How much does commercial concrete polishing cost?

Accepted Answer

Commercial concrete polishing typically costs $3-8 per square foot depending on condition, desired gloss level, and decorative options. Basic cream polish starts around $3-4/sq ft, while full aggregate exposure with staining ranges from $6-8/sq ft. Compared to VCT ($8-12/sq ft installed) or carpet ($25-45/sq ft over 15 years), polished concrete offers significant lifecycle savings.

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