KEEP YOUR POLISHED CONCRETE LOOKING AND PERFORMING ITS BEST
Polished concrete floors make a great addition to almost any indoor space. Their sleek appearance and durability perfectly combine form and function and look beautiful with your decor.
By following some basic maintenance tips, you can keep your polished concrete looking its best for as long as possible. Here are some best practices to follow when caring for your new floors.
WHY MAINTAINING POLISHED CONCRETE IS IMPORTANT
Though concrete surfaces are not high-maintenance, some basic care is still required to preserve them for as long as possible. If ignored over time, small messes can easily turn into large-scale damage to your floors.
Successfully maintaining polished concrete requires two basic elements: Urgency and consistency. Clean any spills as soon as possible and be sure to follow a regular general cleaning schedule to ensure that any abrasive debris is quickly removed.
TIPS FOR MAINTAINING POLISHED CONCRETE FLOORS
REPAIR ANY CRACKS IN YOUR CONCRETE BEFORE POLISHING
Not only do cracks in your concrete compromise its structural integrity, but even the smallest fissure can appear unattractive. Cracks can also create an uneven surface, which can pose maintenance challenges and safety issues over time.
Before you schedule a polishing, have a professional inspect your concrete floors for any cracks. They can assess any damage and recommend a plan to repair them before polishing.
CLEAN YOUR FLOORS REGULARLY (DAILY, IF POSSIBLE)
The best way to maintain your polished concrete floors is by keeping them clean. Sweep, mop with a microfiber cloth, and/or vacuum them daily (or as often as possible) to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated.
Abrasive particles like sand and dirt are the greatest threat to your polished concrete. They can grind down the finish over time and leave patches of your floor exposed.
It is recommended that you clean your floors daily, if possible. This will ensure that even the smallest messes are removed from the surface so that they do not accumulate and cause further and greater damage to the floor over time.
USE APPROPRIATE CLEANING PRODUCTS
When cleaning your floors, be sure to use a pH-neutral cleaner or polish. Many cleaners are alkaline and can damage the sealant on your floor, causing it to wear away over time. Instead, select a cleaning solution that is gentle and meant for either polished surfaces or multiple surfaces.
CLEAN ANY SPILLS IMMEDIATELY
If a spill does happen on your polished concrete floors, be sure to clean it up right away. The longer a spill sits, the greater the chance of staining and damage.
Harsh chemical spills can also erode the polished surface and risk leaving parts of your floor exposed. Use a soft cloth or gentle mop and a gentle cleaning solution to blot up any liquid spills. For tougher messes, use a diamond-impregnated pad to remove tough stains or a degreaser product that is safe for polished concrete.
Some common types of spills that could threaten the integrity of your polished concrete floors include:
- High-acidity food and drinks (citrus, dairy, etc.)
- Sugary substances like soda, candy, and gum
- Residue from adhesives (Tape, etc.)
- Alkaline cleaners like ammonia
- Oil and grease
- Particulate products like ice-melting salts, sand, etc.
When using a cleaning solution, let it sit on the floor for a few minutes before you wipe it. This will give the cleaner enough time to fully suspend any particles on the floor for a more effective result.
It is also important to not allow cleaning products to dry on the concrete surface. This can cause streaking and white residue as well as potential chemical damage.
COVER HIGH-TRAFFIC AREA WITH RUBBER MATS OR CARPETS
High amounts of foot traffic can also wear down parts of your concrete floors. Place rubber mats with carpeting over these areas to lessen the impact and to help catch any abrasive debris that might be tracked in from outside. Be sure to vacuum these mats regularly to prevent the spread of any particles.
IF YOU NOTICE FLOOR DAMAGE, SCHEDULE A POLISHING
If you do notice that your floors are starting to show signs of wear and tear, it is time for a polish service. Contact a professional to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. Polishing your concrete floors every few years can help keep them looking their best and prevent any major damage from occurring.
At Hydro Grind, we offer a full range of polishing, epoxy, and crack repair solutions for concrete floors in the Rigby, Idaho area. If you are looking to improve your floor’s appearance and durability, contact us today to get started.