Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Polished Concrete

By Henry Spencer

Polished concrete is fast becoming one of the newest to hit the world of construction and renovation. High-rise buildings, homes, factories, schools and most public buildings have their floors, counters and walls made with polished concrete.

Polished concrete is nothing more but concrete, and components that promote strength, and shine, nothing too expensive or harmful to the health. The base component is cheap, ordinary concrete. You don't have to spend for tiles or linoleum. It can be used to refloor buildings, or renovate old ones. And the process is cheaper than for the entire area.

It is highly cost-efficient, as the maintenance costs are cut as well. Polished concrete resists dusting. It is highly dense and tightly packed, preventing the formation and collection of dust. Due to its non-porous quality, it also resists almost all forms of liquid stains, oils and other contaminants.

The floor gives a good grip and resistance to slipping. It looks shiny enough to be a mirror, but the hold it gives is roughly even better with your common, ordinary floor. It is also more durable than your regular run-off-the-mill floor, where after a few years; cracks and stains could mar its appearance.

Industrial-wise, it can take the brunt and abuse of man and machine and can last for at least 3-5 years before it needs reconditioning. Home-wise or office, the period of reconditioning can go up to once per 5-7 years.

Reconditioning is not a big deal with a professional. It barely disturbs the environment of the building and before one would know; the job is done and done. It is a quiet operation that does not disturb the flow of your building's system.

In terms of beauty and aesthetics, polished concrete can be styled any way you choose; in order not to look simple and boring. There are many styles you could choose from: engraves, color, saw cuts, simple polish and stenciled art.

You could even opt for a marble finish to give it that expensive, sophisticated look. This can save you tons from using more expensive options like granite, terrazzo or marble. - 16035

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