Decorative concrete is the process which takes concrete beyond its perceived image of plain, grey and boring and transforms it into an attractive and innovating decorative element. Concrete in commercial, institutional and residential floors, plaza’s and patios, entryways and countertops may be customized to meet any decor, architectural style, pattern, color etc, while still serving the integral function of an essential construction element. The transformation of concrete into decorative concrete is achieved through the use of a variety of materials, that may be applied during the placing process, after the concrete is cured or in restoration of older concrete surfaces. These materials and/or systems include, but are not limited to; integrally colored concrete, stamped concrete, acid staining, decorative overlays and polished concrete.

Polished concrete is fast becoming the ultimate no-wax commercial flooring material. Thanks to recent advances in polishing equipment, densifying materials and polishing techniques; contractors are now grinding concrete floor surfaces, whether new or old, to a high-gloss finish which never needs a wax or coating. Typically, concrete is not considered polished until a 400 grit abrasive has been used on the floor surface. It is normally polished to even higher progressive grit levels. Stains and dyes are often applied to enhance polished concrete, as well as, other options such as: scoring, creating radial lines, grids, bands, borders, and other designs. Factor in the superior durability and performance of concrete, and it’s easy to understand why more retail, warehouse, and office facilities are opting for polished concrete flooring as an alternative to marble, granite, tile and linoleum. Polished concrete is considered a good sustainable design flooring option, because it makes use of the materials already present. Most modern buildings are built on a concrete slab; polishing the exposed concrete eliminates the energy and material consumed by applying the floor covering product and the continual maintenance. Polished Concrete is something to consider when building or modernizing towards a more environmentally green solution.