If you run a business in an industrial facility, you might be thinking about how to maintain your flooring. Industrial floors often get a lot of traffic, and the best way to keep your workspace safe and clean is by installing a floor coating.
Although installing floor coatings in your industrial facility might seem like a big job, it doesn’t have to be. Hiring professionals to prepare the surface and apply the coating will ensure the work is done right.
Why is Surface Preparation Important?
To get the most from your industrial floor coating, proper surface preparation is crucial. By clearing away debris and getting the floor ready for coating, the materials will bond better with the concrete. This makes your flooring stronger and more durable.
The Benefits of Floor Prep and Polishing
Makes Maintenance Easier
When concrete floors are polished and treated, they become easier to maintain and clean. The silicate-based treatments prevent the concrete from producing dust. Best of all, polished concrete floors don't need waxing, buffing, or stripping. The only regular maintenance required is routine cleaning, which is simple on the smooth, glossy surface. As long as you keep your polished floors clean, they will last a long time.
Increases Durability and Longevity
Polishing your concrete floors also makes them more durable. It removes small imperfections that could cause further damage over time, leaving you with solid bare concrete. A densifier hardens the slab, and with guard products and treatments, most chemicals and materials are prevented from damaging the floors. If you want your floors to last and avoid frequent repairs, concrete floor polishing is a great solution.
Leaves an Impressive Shine
Lastly, polished concrete floors look great. Without needing epoxy or other sealers, your floors can keep a beautiful, pristine shine that impresses guests. Despite their glossy appearance, polished concrete meets or exceeds ADA slip resistance requirements. If you take pride in your industrial, residential or commercial facility, polishing and prepping your concrete floors will give you stunning results.
Steps to preparation for floor polishing
From improved light reflectivity to easier cleaning and maintenance, polished concrete can greatly enhance both the look and functionality of your space. Before we get into the details of pre-polishing preparations, let’s set the foundation for a successful project.
• Plan Logistics
Firstly, it’s essential to create a detailed project plan. Choose the optimal timing for the project, avoiding busy periods to minimize disruption. Plan which areas will be blocked off or inaccessible during the process. Keeping staff and clients informed about project dates and what to expect ensures a smooth and well-coordinated operation.
• Protect Surrounding Areas
To protect surrounding areas during the concrete polishing process, cover nearby furniture and equipment with tarps or plastic. Seal doorways with plastic sheeting to effectively contain dust. Removing items that could be damaged by vibration is a proactive step in safeguarding your valuable assets. A reliable contractor will ensure all of this is done before the project begins, but teamwork is key. Any preparation the client can do beforehand will speed up and enhance the success of the project.
• Clean the Floor Thoroughly
A clean surface is crucial for a successful concrete polishing project. Start by sweeping and mopping the floor to remove dirt and debris. Clean out cracks and crevices thoroughly to ensure a smooth surface. Remove any old paints, coatings, or adhesives that might interfere with the polishing process.
• Repair Concrete Defects
Dealing with concrete defects is a crucial part of the pre-polishing phase. Fill any holes, cracks, or spalls in the concrete, and replace severely damaged or deteriorated areas. Make sure the slab is level by grinding down high spots, creating an ideal foundation for the polishing process.
• Repair Isolation Joints
Creating saw-cut contraction joints around fixed objects is crucial for allowing the concrete to move independently and preventing cracking. This careful method ensures the longevity and durability of the polished surface.
• Hire Expert Concrete Polishing Contractors
Achieving proper concrete floor polishing requires state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable personnel. It’s not the type of project that anyone can or should do. So, if you’re considering polishing your concrete floors, it’s best to reach out to industrial flooring experts with plenty of experience.
The team at GP Concrete Polishing specializes in various types of concrete floor repair, resurfacing, and replacement. Whether you own or manage a warehouse, factory, or commercial facility, if your floors need attention, we can find and deliver the right solution. Specifically, we can help you determine if concrete polishing is the best option for you. To learn more about us and our services, contact us today.