In the world of modern interior design and home improvements, many homeowners prefer polished concrete floors for their sleek look and unparalleled durability.
But with time, you need to invest money in floor refinishing to remove dust, dirt, and debris from your floors. The process is called ‘concrete floor polishing’.
While homeowners tend to hire expert floor polishing Melbourne professionals for the job, it still requires time and effort. Here, we will discuss the average time taken for floor polishing, factors that influence floor polishing timeline, and some preparation tips.
So, let’s get going:
Steps of Concrete Floor Polishing
Before discussing the time taken by floor polishing, let’s first understand what the process involves. It’s basically a 3-step process: grinding, polishing, and sealing.
1: Grinding
To start polishing a concrete floor, you first need to grind it. This step is crucial because it sets the foundation for the whole process. Professionals use rough diamond-segmented abrasives to get rid of any existing coatings, stains, or flaws on the surface. This not only makes the concrete smooth but also reveals the raw layers underneath.
The degree of grind depends on the desired level of concrete texture you want to show and the condition of the existing floors. As you grind, the surface becomes more even, getting it ready for the next step: polishing.
2: Polishing
Once you’ve cleaned up the surface through grinding, the next step is polishing, which is like an art form that makes the concrete look even better. Polishing involves using finer diamond abrasives to gradually refine the surface, giving it the shine and smoothness you want. As you go through the polishing stages, the concrete transforms from a dull look to a glossy, reflective finish that adds a touch of sophistication.
Polishing is usually done in multiple steps, each time using finer abrasives to create a visually stunning and durable floor that reflects light and enhances the overall look of the space.
3: Sealing
The last step in the concrete floor polishing process is sealing, and it’s important for protecting the polished look we’ve achieved. Sealing creates a barrier that guards against stains, moisture, and wear and tear, ensuring the polished finish lasts a long time.
There are different types of sealers available, and you should choose one based on the needs of the space. This protective layer not only makes the polished concrete more durable but also makes it easier to clean and resistant to damage over time.
Factors Affecting the Length of Polishing Process
As you know the floor polishing stages, let’s move to the most anticipated question: How long does it take to polish concrete floors?
There are several factors that influence the floor polishing timeline. However, the following factors play a crucial role in determining the process length:
Surface Condition
The starting condition of the concrete surface is crucial to determine the polishing length. If the floor has cracks or other issues, you must prepare for additional steps like grinding and patching to make it smooth. Fixing these problems makes the polished finish better, but it extends the length of the whole project.
Aggregate Exposure
The desired amount of aggregate concrete also affects the floor polishing timeline. Different projects need different degrees of aggregate exposure, from a fully exposed look to a smoother finish. Getting the right look means adjusting the grinding depth and the number of polishing passes. Doing this and maintaining a balance takes time and precision.
Floor Size and Layout
The size and layout of the floor also decide how much time it takes to polish. Large areas naturally need more time and resources. If the floor has a tricky layout with many corners and hard-to-reach spots, it might need special equipment and careful work, which adds more time to the polishing process.
Hardness of Concrete
The hardness of the concrete affects the speed of polishing. Softer concrete can be polished more quickly than harder types. But harder concrete might be more durable in the long run. You need to adjust the polishing parameters to get the best results without risking the concrete’s strength.
Tooling and Equipment
The tools and equipment used are really important for how efficiently the floors are polished. High-quality and well-maintained equipment can speed up each polishing step. On the other hand, using outdated or incompetent tools might add up to more polishing passes, making the whole project take longer.
Preparation Tips for Professional Concrete Floor Polishing
So, now you can guess your floor polishing project’s timeline. And if you think that the required time is too hard to match your schedule, you should discuss it with your floor polishing professional.
And you should follow these preparation tips to make the process quicker:
- Clear the Space:Before the expert floor polishing Melbourneprofessionals arrive, clear the area of any furniture, rugs, or obstacles that might impede their progress. A clutter-free workspace not only speeds up the process but also ensures that every inch of your concrete floor gets the attention it deserves.
- Clean Thoroughly:A clean slate is key to a successful concrete polishing project. Sweep away loose debris and mop the floor to remove any dirt or grime. Stubborn stains? Address them beforehand with an appropriate cleaner. A pristine surface allows the professionals to focus on the polishing, enhancing the overall result.
- Repair Cracks and Damage:Addressing cracks and damage before the professionals arrive can save time and prevent delays. Fill in any cracks or holes with an appropriate concrete filler. Not only does this streamline the polishing process, but it also ensures a more even and flawless finish.
- Communicate Expectations:Clear communication with the professionals is crucial. Discuss your expectations, desired finish, and any specific concerns you may have. This ensures that the experts are well-prepared and can bring the right tools and materials for the job.
- Provide Adequate Ventilation:Concrete polishing involves the use of chemicals that may produce fumes. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows or doors. This not only creates a safer working environment but also helps in expelling any odours more efficiently.
Conclusion
Your journey towards well-polished concrete floors will take time, but it’s all worth it for a shiny and durable result. As we’ve seen, the polishing process basically involves grinding, polishing, and sealing, which enhances the overall aesthetics and durability of your floors.
The factors mentioned above will help you determine your floor polishing project’s timeline and match your routine.
So, calculate your project’s approximate time and discuss it with your floor polishing company.
And if you have not hired any expert floor polishing Melbourne professional yet, then Prestige Floors can be your perfect partner in achieving sparkling results for your concrete floors. With years of experience in the floor sanding and polishing industry, we guarantee you will get the desired finish for your floors. Contact us to discuss your requirements and get a free quote for your project today!