subject: The Many Ways Polished Concrete Can Help Improve The Look And Feel Of Your Home Or Office [print this page] 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.
Concrete slabs are the foundations for many of today's structures. To create an attractive, environmentally friendly, low maintenance, and durable floor, in a cost effective way, polishing concrete is the way to go. It will reduce the numbers of allergens and mites. Even mold has trouble growing on it, and you won't have to worry about it ever rotting, like wood floors tend to do over time.
Cleaning this type of flooring is a snap, using just simple soap and water to keep the shine high and glossy. Occasionally polishing machine are used to intensify this look. It is also capable of improving the natural lighting. In some situations this may be a problem but the use of the room will dictate whether or not lighting is an issue. Most people love natural light, others might not find it too appealing.
To make each floor unique you can utilize color and design. In many places, such as grocery stores, shopping malls, schools, office buildings and the home, you may find examples of this. They do maintain cool temperatures and might be considered cold, but no more so than tile or linoleum. Heating cables can be added to warm and maintain the temperature if warm floors are preferred. The cool floors have also been known to reduce cooling costs in the summer time.
Applying additional shine finishes is unnecessary with this flooring, saving money as well as time and effort, and there are fewer consequences regarding the environment and raw materials. Since there are no hazardous chemicals in the concrete it is quite innocuous and safe. The two most often used compounds are potassium silicate and lithium silicate, both harmless to humans.
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.
Many things are made from polished concrete. Counter-tops are a popular example of some of the modern uses. Floors can be customized and designed to suit any style as well. Kitchens are a great place to see many of its uses. Adding personalized touches to a lot of the homes decor. These projects can be fun for do-it-yourselfers in many cases, but at times contracting the job may be the most efficient way to get the desired effects.
