From Egypt to Rome the use of concrete in various constructions can still be seen today. There are numerous benefits to polished concrete. The stone polishing technique for creating this look came from Europe. Mineralized chemical treatments originated in the U. S. These two things together have created a new way for people to take advantage of concrete in a way that was never possible before.
Most of today's structures are built on concrete slabs. Polishing the concrete that is already present in these places is a cost effective way of creating a beautiful eco-friendly, low maintenance, durable, floor. This kind of flooring reduces dust mites and allergens, and mold will not easily grow on it. If allergies are a problem, this kind of floor will help to make them a thing of the past.
This hard floor won't chip and is easily cleaned with nothing more than some soapy water and a mop. It's said that highly polished, reflective concrete floors can even improve natural lighting. This can either be something that improves the functionality, or hinders it, depending on what it's being used for.
Colors and designs can be applied to make each floor unique. You can see these floors in schools, shopping malls, grocery stores, office buildings and even in homes. They can be cold, but no more so than tile or linoleum. It's possible to embed heating cables in this flooring and control the temperature just as you would a heating blanket. In the summer these floors can help reduce the cost of cooling your home or building.
By polishing and densifying, the need for adding a separate finish is avoided. This saves on raw materials, money and environmental impacts. Potassium silicate, and lithium silicate are two of the main compounds used in these floors, making them no more hazardous than doing the laundry. There are no harmful chemicals to worry about.
Hardening and grinding the concrete down to a smooth finish, creates less porosity. Regular concrete is very porous and difficult to clean. Liquids are absorbed quickly into the surface. On polished floors liquids pool and are easily wiped clean. These floors are very easy to maintain.
These floors are also naturally fire resistant, and despite the highly glossed appearance they are not slippery at all. This bright sheen may increase light reflectivity, but it also can reflect sound pretty well too. Carpeting and other softer materials are best used if noise from walking on it is an issue. If you don't mind your floor being a little noisier than carpet, this option is one you might want to consider.
Creating counter-tops with polished concrete is also a way in which it can be used. Many people are taking advantage of this opportunity to not only design cool new floors, but also as a way to add some style to their kitchens. Many times you're able to do this yourself. In other cases you may have to contact a contractor to get the job done safely and correctly.
