Exposed aggregate concrete flooring marries form and functionality, making it an increasingly popular choice of floor for commercial operations and retail spaces. Offering impressive durability and a high-end finish, this practical flooring option has a range of benefits. Want to know if exposed aggregate concrete floors are the right option for your new build or commercial floor restoration? Keep reading to find out more.
What is Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete flooring is a highly ground, ‘cut’, or polished ground surface that exposes the underlying natural stones or aggregate. The aesthetic appeal of the floor makes it a good decorative choice. However, it is also extremely durable, hard-wearing, and long-lasting.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Installation
The first step in any flooring project is to discuss the suitability of the proposed floor for your daily operations. Once this has been determined, we explore the various gloss options available for you to achieve the desired aesthetic and performance.
The installation process for exposed aggregate concrete floors is as follows:
- Subfloor preparation. The first step is to ensure the concrete slab is completely clean and free from dust and debris. We are equipped with heavy-duty equipment to streamline preparation and ready floors for the next steps.
- Floor levelling. Floor levelling is a critical element of the preparation phase. We have extensive expertise in addressing uneven subfloors – and referring serious issues to professionals for intervention. This can be done for both floor refurbishments and new builds.
- Diamond grinding. The concrete is subject to multiple phases of floor grinding using specialised machinery, involving diamond abrasives of varying coarseness. One to two coats of densifier are applied depending on the absorbency of the concrete, which makes the concrete extremely hard. Resin diamond pucks remove scratches and the grit is increased to achieve the desired matte or gloss finish.
- Stain protection. Finally, the floor is sealed with a high-quality stain protection.
Exposed aggregate concrete floors require skill, precision, and the right equipment for installation. This multi-phase process involves intensive grinding and labour to achieve the perfect finish. As a form of polished concrete, different glosses are available including matte, satin, mid-gloss, and high-gloss – with matte options providing more traction over high-gloss varieties.
At DC Flooring, we advise every one of our clients on the best flooring solutions for their operations, with tailored support every step of the way. Our end-to-end approach ensures long-lasting, high-performance floors with a professional finish.
Why Exposed Aggregate Concrete Floors Work Well in Warehouses and Industrial Environments
Exposed aggregate concrete is extremely versatile, making it an excellent choice for many commercial and professional settings. The benefits of exposed aggregate concrete floors are:
- Raw and Refined Aesthetics. Your flooring is a reflection of your brand and business. Exposed aggregate concrete is often associated with high-end properties, creating an elegant, industrial aesthetic that is eye-catching in most environments.
- Highly Durable, Low Maintenance. Professionally installed exposed aggregate floors are optimal for high-traffic spaces. This floor system marries the strength of polished concrete with the added wear resistance of the exposed aggregate. It reduces lifecycle costs by being long-lasting. Exposed aggregate concrete also requires minimal upkeep. Our exposed aggregate concrete floors come with a ten-year non-dusting warranty and we offer maintenance packages to help our clients with the long-term care of their floors.
- Cost-Effectiveness. While the initial installation may be more costly than some other systems, there are potentially high costs savings over the lifetime of exposed aggregate concrete systems. Longevity, low maintenance needs, and the reliability of performance all make this a cost-effective flooring option overall.
- Sustainability. Exposed aggregate concrete is considered an eco-friendly flooring option. By utilising the existing slab – and reduced need for frequent refurbishment or replacement – these floors have a lower impact over their lifetimes than other systems. The floor’s processes also do not involve harmful chemicals. At DC Flooring, we share our clients’ environmentally sustainable objectives. We reduce our footprint in any way we can in the performance of our services.
Is Exposed Concrete Suitable for Your Workplace?
The suitability of exposed aggregate concrete relies on a range of factors including:
- Surface finish requirements.
- Draining and moisture control.
- Compliance and safety.
- Your installer will also advise on the best options according to floor size, thickness requirements, sealing systems, and the cost implications of the initial investment versus the lifetime costs of the floor.
Exposed aggregate concrete is commonly installed in the following sectors:
- Malls and retail operations.
- Conference centres and hotels.
- Showrooms.
- Airports.
- Schools and universities.
- Commercial centres.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Flooring Maintenance
Exposed aggregate concrete floors are remarkably low maintenance. The longevity of any floor relies on the quality of the installation, as well as a few simple processes for long-term maintenance. This includes:
- Cleaning. The finish of the floor makes it easy to clean, but we recommend regular sweeping to remove debris.
- Regular Inspections and Address Repairs. Inspect your floors regularly and make sure you address any issues requiring repairs to joints or cracks as quickly as possible.
- Get a Care Plan. Your professional floor installer will give you a care process to follow to maximise the longevity and performance of your exposed aggregate concrete floor. This will include any chemicals to avoid, the need for additional sealer applications, and any red flags to watch out for.
- Professional Inspections. At DC Flooring, we are here to support you through the lifetime of your floor. Our team knows what to look out for in terms of wear and tear. Our maintenance plans help you to troubleshoot and address issues before they become widespread problems.
Exposed Concrete FAQs
Properly installed and maintained industrial exposed aggregate flooring can last decades. This will depend on a range of factors such as traffic, installation, and the wear and tear of daily operations, but this flooring system is known for being long lasting.
Yes. Exposed aggregate floors need to be installed by professional teams with proficiency in the timings and processes involved in this flooring system. While the initial outlay may be relatively high owing to the time, labour, and processes involved, the potential cost savings over the lifetime of the floor far outweigh the installation costs.
Learn More About Exposed Aggregate Concrete Floors from DC Flooring
With experience across all sectors and flooring options, DC Flooring is uniquely positioned to advise on the best flooring solutions available for your commercial or industrial operations. Contact DC Flooring today to speak to an expert.
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