Polished concrete has become a key material for both interior and exterior design. Modern, aesthetic, and durable, it blends into a variety of spaces and decorative styles. It can be used on floors, in kitchens, and even in bathrooms. Highly elegant, it offers numerous customization options. However, to fully exploit the potential of this coating, it’s important to understand its uses, installation techniques, and maintenance tips. Here’s how to take full advantage of the benefits of polished concrete.
What are the applications of polished concrete?
Marius Aurenti polished concrete stands out for its versatility and contemporary look. It blends easily into both modern and traditional environments, making it a preferred choice for architects and private individuals alike. In terms of its intended use, this coating is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
In kitchens, its waterproofing provides good resistance to moisture and splashes. It makes countertops smooth, hygienic, and easy to clean. In bathrooms, it stylishly covers shower walls. It also covers floors, hiding unsightly joints.
The use of polished concrete on stairs and floors is also a trend in contemporary homes. In living spaces, it is highly resistant to repeated human traffic and impacts. Unlike tiles, its installation does not create gaps, which guarantees visual continuity. On stairs, this coating brings a modern look and improves grip when properly installed.
What are the tips for installing polished concrete?
Installing polished concrete requires careful preparation. It requires great precision, as a small error can compromise the final result. To successfully install this coating, there are a few essential guidelines to follow.
Prepare the surface before installation
Before applying a polished concrete kit , make sure the surface is clean, dry, and smooth. A small irregularity or crack can hinder the adhesion of the coating and ruin the finish. Ideally, you should repair all cracks and apply a suitable primer. Doing this beforehand ensures good adhesion and a consistent final finish.
Understanding the application technique step by step
Polished concrete is applied in several layers following a specific process. The first step involves laying a primer, followed by a thin first layer of concrete. After drying, a second layer is applied to achieve a good thickness.
Each layer should be touched up with a stainless steel trowel to achieve a uniform surface. Sanding should be done after drying to correct imperfections and achieve the desired texture. It is also advisable to apply a protective varnish to ensure waterproofing and enhance the coating’s resistance to stains.
Avoiding Some Common Mistakes
Common mistakes include insufficient surface preparation, which can cause cracks. Similarly, applying a second layer that is too thick can be problematic. It’s worth noting that the thickness of the concrete mentioned is between 2 and 3 mm.
Additionally, failure to allow proper drying time can weaken the coating’s strength. Just as forgetting to apply varnish or wax can expose the material to moisture and stains, avoiding these mistakes ensures a strong, elegant, and uniform finish.
How to adopt a suitable interview?
Despite its robustness, polished concrete is vulnerable to stains and moisture if not properly maintained. Therefore, if you want to maintain the shine and strength of the coating, it is recommended to adopt certain protective measures.
Carry out regular cleaning with suitable products
Daily maintenance of polished concrete does not require any specific protocol. Using a soft, slightly damp cloth combined with neutral soap is enough to restore the shine to mineral surfaces. The use of abrasive products or harsh detergents is prohibited. These can weaken the protective layer.
When it comes to floor maintenance, you can use a vacuum cleaner, followed by mopping to remove dirt. These simple steps will help polished concrete retain its practicality and aesthetic appeal.
Adopt protective measures against humidity and stainsAlthough the coating is waterproof thanks to the finishes applied during installation, it is advisable to strengthen its protection over time. In humid spaces, such as bathrooms or kitchens, regular application of a water-repellent product is essential to maintain its waterproofing and prevent infiltration. Also, laying a rug or protective mats under furniture prevents stains and scratches.
It may also happen that the coating shows some signs of wear, such as a dull surface, the appearance of scratches, or micro-cracks. The best solution is to repair them as soon as possible. These different measures extend the lifespan of the polished concrete and ensure the longevity of your investment.
