Polished concrete: transforming your space with durability & style

Written by

14 April 2024

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4 min read

There's one flooring material that's been gaining traction in recent years for its exceptional blend of durability, style, and sustainability: polished concrete.

In the realm of flooring options, one material stands out for its blend of environmental friendliness, affordability, durability, and unique style: polished concrete. This versatile material not only offers a sleek and modern aesthetic but also boasts unmatched longevity and resilience. To understand more about polished concrete, we spoke with GrindKing director Garth Urquhart who shared insights into its benefits, applications, and innovations.

Polished concrete: a versatile solution

When it comes to flooring options, the choices can often seem overwhelming. From carpet to hardwood, each option comes with its own set of pros and cons.

“Polished concrete offers the very best of everything when it comes to flooring options," shares Urquhart. "It's environmentally friendly, affordable, incredibly durable, and boasts a style that's unparalleled.”

One of the most appealing aspects of polished concrete is its versatility. Whether it's for a residential renovation project or a commercial space in need of a flooring upgrade, polished concrete can breathe new life into any environment.

"Almost any concrete, new or old, can be polished, making it a perfect option for renovations or even a great replacement for tired carpet, linoleum, or any existing flooring," Urquhart explains.

The salt and pepper grind on this floor by GrindKing is perfectly highlighted by an LED floor light.

The process of perfection

But what sets polished concrete apart from its traditional counterparts?

“Through a meticulous process of refinement involving grinding, polishing, and treatments, we're able to enhance the already robust surface of concrete. This not only increases its durability but also renders it highly resistant to stains.”

The process of achieving a polished concrete surface involves precision and expertise. "We tailor our grinding and polishing methods to meet the specific desires and budgets of our clients," Urquhart adds. This customisation ensures that each polished concrete floor is tailored to meet the unique preferences of the client while maintaining its exceptional durability.

Aesthetic options galore

When it comes to the aesthetic appeal of polished concrete, the possibilities are endless. “We offer several methods of grinding and polishing, each imparting a distinct look. Customers can opt for a natural finish where no stone is visible, a salt-and-pepper finish that exposes only the sand and cement, or a heavy grind that showcases stones up to 19mm in size.”

While polished concrete is versatile, it may not be suitable for outdoor applications due to potential slipperiness when wet. However, alternatives like bush-hammered concrete offer a similar aesthetic with enhanced traction.

“But it's essential to work with reputable companies to ensure quality results and avoid shortcuts in the installation process,” emphasizes Urquhart.

GrindKing’s latest innovation involves engraving, utilising a mobile CNC machine to create intricate designs on concrete surfaces, further expanding the possibilities for customisation.

This new home had a really bad case of “Pinto”, a reaction in the surface of concrete which looks very unsightly. They tried acid washing to minimize the pinto effect but it only made it worse as it turned the surface of the concrete orange. We did a Medium stone exposure, fine bush hammer texture and sealed the concrete with a clear concrete sealer to enhance the colour and protect the surface staining and deteriorating.

Dispelling myths & misconceptions

One of the most common misconceptions about polished concrete is that it is cold.

“The notion that polished concrete is cold stems from a misunderstanding. While it may feel cool to the touch initially, concrete possesses excellent thermal properties. Its density allows it to absorb and retain heat, gradually releasing it over time.”

This inherent thermal efficiency makes polished concrete not only a stylish choice but also a practical one for maintaining comfortable temperatures in both residential and commercial settings.

Polished concrete is also inherently environmentally friendly, says Urquhart. “With locally sourced materials and minimal waste generation, it boasts sustainability and energy efficiency. Additionally, its non-toxic nature contributes to clean indoor air quality, making it a preferred choice for eco-conscious consumers.”

It’s cost-effectiveness is a key feature that appeals to many homeowners and businesses, says Urquhart. “Polished concrete pulls ahead in terms of cost-effectiveness due to minimal material transportation and longevity. With little to no replacement needed over time, its long-term costs are significantly reduced compared to alternative flooring options.”

Polished concrete transcends conventional flooring options with its blend of durability, style, and environmental friendliness. As advancements continue to push the boundaries of innovation in concrete finishing techniques, the possibilities for transforming spaces are limitless. Whether for homes or businesses, polished concrete remains a timeless choice for those seeking both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Explore polished concrete projects by GrindKing