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Superabrasive has launched a new generation of floor maintenance pads – SupraShine. Compared to its existing ShinePro pads, the new SupraShine line features a revamped range of grit sizes and pad options with new colors and new flexible material for outstanding results on about any floor. There are four types […]
Polished concrete is a young industry. Surveying the processes and technological advancements over the last 15-20 years, it’s apparent the industry has continued to grow and discover new, faster— and not always better— ways of achieving unique, shiny floors.
According to the news, retail brick-and-mortar facilities are declining at a rapid rate. While I agree 100 percent that internet sales are impacting sales at traditional stores, this market segment is still relevant. And when it comes to polished concrete at retail establishments, business is still booming.
There’s a grinder/polisher model available for just about every task, whether it’s prepping the floor of a big-box store or finishing a basement or small office. Finding the right tool for the job can make a big difference in speed and efficiency, so know what you want before you go shopping.
Although a good grinder/polisher will take other types of pads besides diamonds, the industrial version of the gemstone is a must for a wide range of tasks. And, there’s the rub: just as with jewelry, these diamonds are seen as being expensive.
Achieving a fine polished look in concrete countertops requires using progressively finer grits of diamond pads.
Thicker pads will last longer, but are stiffer and commonly prone to cupping when they dry out. Cupped pads don’t wear evenly, and often the outer area doesn’t actually make contact with the concrete. Photos courtesy of The Concrete Countertop Institute
When polishing concrete using resin- or metal-bonded diamond abrasives, how do you know that the diamonds under your machine are functioning effectively?
