How to Maintain Polished Concrete Floors
Concrete is a versatile, affordable and lasting flooring option. When used in a large space, it can create a seamless look and feel, and it can be combined with radiant heating for a warm, cozy feeling. Even better, hard-working, utilitarian concrete is low-maintenance. With good care, a quality concrete floor can last a lifetime even under high-traffic conditions.
How to Maintain Polished Concrete
Maintaining polished concrete floors requires proper cleaning and tools. Polished concrete flooring has a durable glossy finish. Dust, sand and other debris can scratch the surface and shorten the life of the floor. Dry mop daily, especially in high-traffic areas, to maintain the finish. Use a soft or microfiber pad to avoid scratching the floor. You’ll also need to periodically wet mop the floor. Avoid harsh cleansers that can dull the shine. Instead, use a clean mop and warm water or a neutral cleaning solution. If you have a spill, clean it up as quickly as possible.
If heavy foot traffic has dulled the surface of your polished concrete flooring, you can quickly restore the shine with recommended sealers and burnishing.
Recommended Cleansers and Tools
The pH of your cleaner can alter your concrete floors, so you need to avoid cleansers that are made using ammonia, citrus, bleach, vinegar and pine solutions. Cleaners that are too acidic can destroy the finish and eat into the concrete, leading to etching that can require grinding to repair. Alkaline cleaners can be just as damaging; over time, using them can create a flat, dull look. Instead, when maintaining polished concrete floors, you’ll want to use a cleaner with a neutral pH that will suspend dirt and debris without damaging the finish.
Tips and Tricks
Once you’ve learned how to maintain polished concrete, the rest is simple. Just make sure you follow a few simple guidelines, including:
- Use microfiber cleaning cloths to remove debris without abrading the polished concrete floors.
- Don’t give spills a chance to sink into the concrete: Mop them up as soon as they happen.
- Allow the cleaner to thoroughly saturate sticky or greasy messes before mopping it up.
- Don’t let the cleaner dry out, which can make it harder to clean up.
- Use a high-speed burnisher to restore the floor’s shine and polish.
- Re-new the polish periodically as needed.
About Blackrock Industrial
Blackrock Industrial specializes in concrete flooring, polishing, resurfacing and sealing. We create durable, seamless flooring for all markets, including residential, commercial and industrial. As Miami’s top epoxy flooring contractor and installer, we work with clients throughout the South and Central Florida regions. Our skilled team can help you choose the best flooring solution for your space. You can choose from a wide range of styles, designs and finishes, all of which are designed to stand up to daily wear-and-tear. Contact Blackrock Industrial today to learn more about polished concrete floors or to set up an appointment with our team.
