Concrete Surface Preparation - Refinishing A Concrete Floor
When you are refinishing a concrete floor, concrete surface preparation is highly important. There are typically resins and polymers which on present on the concrete and need to be removed. In addition, the concrete may have irregularities, uneven spots, or faulting (where two pourings of concrete are at different heights creating a potential for trip and fall accidents). Getting a smooth surface prior to staining and sealing concrete flooring will help to ensure the highest quality and durability to the flooring surface. You can achieve a beautifully smooth and shiny finished concrete floor when you follow the proper steps in preparation.
Concrete floors which have serious irregularities or faulting may need concrete diamond grinding to level them out. These machines can be purchased or rented and usually include a vacuum to clear out the dust during the grinding process. The diamond grinders shave off a predetermined thickness from the top of the concrete, guaranteeing a smooth, level surface. Cleaning and polishing come next. Removing debris from the concrete and resins (if you didn't diamond grind the top layer off) is part of the concrete surface preparation to get the floor smoother and closer to being ready for decorative stains or sealant.
Diamond grinders can also act as polishers. When polishing concrete, you should progress from lower grit (like 50) to higher grit (such as 1600 and above). Polishing with sequential diamond grit is next in the concrete surface preparation in order the get the desired smooth surface. Once at 1600 and above, the concrete will begin to look a little shiny. It is at this point that the concrete is ready for decorative treatments, like stain. After stain is applied and allowed to dry as directed, a sealer should be applied. In many cases, the sealant (after being allowed to cure per the directions) will be followed with wax and buffing.
These concrete surface preparation steps will produce a stunning concrete flooring surface which is appropriate for homes, businesses, or churches. In fact, the polished concrete floor look offers a modern, industrial look that is very popular in loft apartments. Stained concrete can produce a style that works well with eclectic, traditional, whimsical, country, and minimalistic design aesthetics. For warmth, area rugs can be placed on top of smooth concrete floors. When you are considering a concrete refinishing project, it can be helpful to consult with a concrete surface professional or rental company so you know what to expect as far as timelines and required steps in your particular situation.
Concrete floors which have serious irregularities or faulting may need concrete diamond grinding to level them out. These machines can be purchased or rented and usually include a vacuum to clear out the dust during the grinding process. The diamond grinders shave off a predetermined thickness from the top of the concrete, guaranteeing a smooth, level surface. Cleaning and polishing come next. Removing debris from the concrete and resins (if you didn't diamond grind the top layer off) is part of the concrete surface preparation to get the floor smoother and closer to being ready for decorative stains or sealant.
Diamond grinders can also act as polishers. When polishing concrete, you should progress from lower grit (like 50) to higher grit (such as 1600 and above). Polishing with sequential diamond grit is next in the concrete surface preparation in order the get the desired smooth surface. Once at 1600 and above, the concrete will begin to look a little shiny. It is at this point that the concrete is ready for decorative treatments, like stain. After stain is applied and allowed to dry as directed, a sealer should be applied. In many cases, the sealant (after being allowed to cure per the directions) will be followed with wax and buffing.
These concrete surface preparation steps will produce a stunning concrete flooring surface which is appropriate for homes, businesses, or churches. In fact, the polished concrete floor look offers a modern, industrial look that is very popular in loft apartments. Stained concrete can produce a style that works well with eclectic, traditional, whimsical, country, and minimalistic design aesthetics. For warmth, area rugs can be placed on top of smooth concrete floors. When you are considering a concrete refinishing project, it can be helpful to consult with a concrete surface professional or rental company so you know what to expect as far as timelines and required steps in your particular situation.
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