Concrete polished plinth

Architect: Brennan Furlong

Concrete bench polished in situ to expose the aggregate and blend with brick wall and polished concrete floors.

Polished concrete floors are achieved by removing the very top layer off a concrete slab, exposing the aggregate underneath.

Removal is achieved by grinding away between 1 mm and 4 mm off the surface with diamond disks.

Once the desired grind is reached, the concrete can be honed and polished until the surface becomes hard and smooth, with a matt or gloss appearance.

Specifying concrete suitable for a polished concrete floor

The most crucial element of a polished concrete floor, wall or plinth is the quality of concrete and the pour. It is vital the slab mix, placement, finish & curing are done correctly You should always work with an experienced contractor. Your concrete slab is your final floor or wall finish and should be treated with this in mind. Standard concrete slabs and old concrete can be polished, the final outcome is determined by the colour and mix of aggregate in the concrete screed.

Easy maintenance, even with heavy use

The easy maintenance of polished concrete is key in high-traffic areas where trolleys are used – such as airports, hotels, supermarkets and warehouses – eliminating the need for waxes. Non-allergic properties are important for hospitals, private residences, schools, etc.

Its glossy surface resists the marks of forklift truck tyres and staining from chemicals and oil on industrial floors. This versatility and toughness makes the concrete an ideal and ultimate flooring material for most floor applications.

Maintaining the shine requires only minimal effort. Just clean the floor regularly with a damp mop to remove grit, and use a suitable cleaner to enhance the shine. With basic cleaning, the floor will keep its lustre for years.