Burnished Concrete

HOme > Burnished Concrete

LEARN MORE

Burnished concrete slab offers numerous benefits for homeowners and commercial property owners, including:

1. Low maintenance: Burnished concrete floors are straightforward to maintain, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional mopping to keep them looking their best. Their seamless surface also means no grouting to clean or maintain.
2. Durability: These floors are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and resist wear and tear, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas such as entryways, hallways, and commercial spaces.
3. Allergy-friendly: Burnished concrete floors are hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and mildew, making them an excellent option for those with allergies or sensitivities to dust and other allergens.
4. Aesthetic appeal: The sleek, glossy finish of burnished concrete floors lends a modern, sophisticated look to any space, and the seamless surface creates a sense of continuity and flows throughout the room.
5. Eco-friendly: As burnished concrete utilises existing concrete surfaces, it helps reduce waste and uses additional materials, making it an environmentally friendly flooring option.

LEARN MORE

While both burnished and polished concrete offers a smooth, glossy and matte finish, there are critical differences between the two processes:

1. Aggregate exposure: Polished concrete involves grinding down the concrete to expose the aggregate, creating a more textured appearance. Burnished concrete, on the other hand, does not expose the aggregate and maintains a uniform surface.
2. Process: Burnished concrete is primarily trowelled to achieve its finish, while polished concrete involves multiple stages of grinding and polishing using diamond abrasive tools.
3. Appearance: Burnished concrete has a more consistent, seamless look, whereas polished concrete often showcases the unique characteristics of the aggregate, resulting in a more varied appearance.
4. Durability: Both finishes are highly durable, but burnished concrete often has a more compacted upper layer, making it slightly more resistant to wear and tear than polished concrete.

Is burnished concrete cheaper than polished concrete floors?

The cost of burnished concrete floors and polished concrete floors can vary depending on factors such as the size of the project, the complexity of the design, and the specific requirements of the client. Generally speaking, burnished concrete tends to be a more cost-effective option than polished concrete.

The primary reason for this cost difference is the process involved in achieving the respective finishes. Burnished concrete relies on a trowelling concrete polishing technique, which is less labour-intensive than the multi-step grinding and polishing process used for polished concrete. Additionally, burnished concrete does not require specialised grinding and polishing equipment or the exposure of the aggregate, which can add to the overall cost of polished concrete installations.

However, it is essential to note that the cost of either concrete finish alone can vary significantly depending on the specific project requirements and any customisations the client desires. As such, it is always advisable to consult a professional concrete contractor to get an accurate estimate for your specific needs.

Additional Considerations for Burnished Concrete Floor

1. Protection during construction: To ensure the best possible result, it is essential to protect burnished concrete floors during construction. This includes keeping the area clean, avoiding heavy machinery or equipment on the surface, and using appropriate floor protection materials such as RAM board if necessary.
2. Repair and maintenance: While burnished concrete is highly durable, it is not immune to damage. If your floor becomes damaged during construction or use, it is often possible to repair the surface. Consult with your concrete contractor to determine the best course of action for any repairs or maintenance that may be required.
3. Customisation: One of the advantages of burnished concrete is its versatility. This type of flooring can be customised in various ways, including the use of coloured concrete, staining, or the addition of decorative elements such as inlays or patterns. Discuss your specific design preferences with your contractor to explore the various customisation options available for burnished concrete floors.

Choosing the Right Contractor for Burnished Concrete Floors

Selecting the right contractor is crucial to ensuring the success of your burnished concrete flooring project. The quality of the finished floor and product depends heavily on the expertise and experience of the contractor you choose. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a burnished concrete flooring contractor:

1. Experience: Look for a contractor with a proven track record of delivering high-quality burnished concrete floors. Experience in the industry indicates that the contractor has honed their skills and can deliver the desired results. Ask for references or testimonials from previous clients to gauge their level of expertise.
2. Portfolio: Review the contractor's portfolio for their previous burnished floor work examples. This will give you a good idea of the quality of their craftsmanship and their ability to handle projects similar to yours.
3. Communication: Effective communication is vital for the success of any construction project. Ensure that the contractor you choose is responsive, attentive to your needs, and open to discussing your project's specific requirements.
4. Quotations: Obtain multiple quotes from different burnishing concrete contractors to compare prices and services offered. This will help you make an informed decision about which contractor offers the best value for money.
5. Licensing and Insurance: Ensure that the contractor you select is appropriately licensed and insured to carry out burnished concrete flooring projects in Australia. This will protect you and your property in case of any accidents or damages that may occur during the burnishing process.

Considering these factors when choosing a contractor for your burnished concrete flooring project, you can feel confident that you are working with a skilled professional who will deliver a high-quality finish that meets your expectations. Remember that investing time and effort in selecting the right contractor can make all the difference in achieving the beautiful and durable burnished concrete surface flooring options you desire.

Conclusion

Burnished concrete floors offer a unique blend of style, durability, and low maintenance, making them an attractive option for residential and commercial spaces. With their smooth, glossy finish and versatile design options, these floors can be tailored to suit various aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. By understanding the critical differences between burnished decorative concrete and polished concrete, as well as the various benefits and considerations associated with each, you can make an informed decision about the best burnishing or polished concrete flooring solution for your Australian property.