Polishing a concrete floor, rather than covering it, has become an increasingly popular choice for many businesses, and it’s easy to see why. The process reveals the inherent beauty and character of concrete, offering a sleek, modern, and industrial appeal that’s versatile enough to suit a range of tastes. Beyond aesthetics, polished concrete stands out for its remarkable durability. Capable of withstanding high traffic and heavy loads, it’s a favourite in commercial spaces. 

One of the major draws of polished concrete is its ease of maintenance. Unlike tiles that have grout lines or wooden panels with joints, concrete doesn’t trap dirt or debris. A simple sweep, followed by an occasional damp mop, is usually all it takes to keep it looking pristine. Moreover, in the long run, the cost benefits become evident. There’s no need to delve into your pockets repeatedly to replace worn-out carpets, tiles, or panels, and the expense of regular sealing or waxing is also eliminated.

Eco-conscious individuals and businesses appreciate that polishing existing concrete reduces the need for additional flooring materials. The process sidesteps the use of potentially harmful adhesives, cleaners, or coatings, which can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). And it doesn’t just stop at being eco-friendly; the reflective properties of polished concrete can make a room seem brighter by amplifying natural light, possibly reducing lighting expenses.

Health is another concern addressed by polished concrete. Carpets, as cozy as they are, can be a haven for dust mites, and other allergens. The smooth surface of concrete doesn’t offer these microenvironments, creating a healthier indoor space. On the topic of temperature, concrete has an impressive ability to store and release heat gradually, stabilising indoor temperatures and easing the demand on heating or cooling systems.

Add to this the longevity factor. With proper care, polished concrete remains robust and radiant for decades. And if a natural look doesn’t resonate with everyone, the option to stain or dye the concrete allows for varied colours and designs. From satin matte to high gloss, the choice of finish remains flexible to individual preferences.

In essence, opting to polish rather than cover a concrete floor capitalises on the material’s innate strengths. Whether motivated by sustainability, ease of care, or the sheer aesthetic appeal, polished concrete reminds us that sometimes the most elegant solutions lie in enhancing what’s already present.

One of TPS360’s proudest and finest achievements is the concrete flooring used at the Swansea Arena. This is a premier event location on the South Wales coast, and it therefore needed a prestigious entrance. Now the first thing anyone notices as they enter the foyer of the building is the very impressive polished concrete floor. This is polished concrete with a difference: a distinctive red, high gloss finish, with aggregate exposed. The high gloss appearance was achieved by diamond polishing with our remote-controlled, planetary grinding machines. 

The best thing about the polished concrete entrance of the Swansea Arena, and of polished concrete flooring in general, is not just that it is aesthetically pleasing and highly durable, but that it will last up to 25 years with very little ongoing maintenance. Imagine the peace of mind this kind of flooring gives facilities managers! Polished concrete really is a dream come true and a box ticked for the entire life cycle of some buildings!

DECORATIVE OVERLAY SCREEDS

In the world of flooring, polished concrete stands as an epitome of style and durability. But what happens when your existing concrete floor has seen better days and is now beyond the scope of simple polishing? Enter the decorative overlay screeds.

What is a Decorative Overlay Screed?

A decorative overlay screed is a high flow topping that, when applied over an existing concrete surface, simulates the appearance of polished concrete. After the screed is applied, it’s ground and polished to expose aggregate, giving it the look of natural polished concrete. These screeds are cement-based toppings laid over the existing concrete surface to both repair and enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Benefits of Decorative Overlay Screeds include: 

1. Versatile Aesthetics: The ability to mimic the polished concrete look allows you to enjoy the aesthetics of polished concrete without starting from scratch.

2. High Performance: Beyond just looks, these screeds are designed for longevity and durability. They can withstand heavy traffic and wear, making them ideal for commercial spaces.

3. Self-Levelling: One of the key benefits is its self-levelling nature. This ensures a smooth, even surface, free from the imperfections or dips that might exist in the old floor.

4. Cost-effective: Instead of tearing out and replacing an entire floor, a decorative overlay screed offers a more budget-friendly alternative. It revives the existing floor and delivers a fresh, polished look.

5. Ideal for damaged floors: For facilities where the existing floor is damaged beyond mere polishing, decorative overlay screeds present the perfect solution. It not only hides imperfections but also strengthens the floor’s surface.

Decorative overlay screeds serve as a bridge between the desire for a polished concrete look and the reality of an existing, perhaps damaged, floor. They offer an economical and efficient way to revitalise spaces without compromising on aesthetics or durability. For facilities seeking a facelift for their worn-out floors, decorative overlay screeds by TPS360 can be the ideal choice.