The polished concrete floors look like the unsung heroes of modern design. They’re stylish, elegant, and surprisingly easy to maintain—if you know the right techniques. At NZ Grinders, we’ve spent years perfecting the art of polishing and grinding concrete, and picked up some valuable tips along the way. So if you want your polished concrete floor to look as shiny as the day it was finished, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Polished Concrete Floors?

Before we dive into maintenance tips, let’s talk about why polished concrete flooring is worth the effort. They’re not just beautiful to look at; They are also incredibly durable. This floor can withstand a lot of foot traffic, making it ideal for commercial areas and busy homes. Plus, they’re low-maintenance compared to other flooring options. However, like any investment, some TLC is required to keep them in tip-top shape.

Daily Maintenance Tips

Sweep Regularly

Dust and dirt are the enemies of polished flooring. Regular sweeping is the first line of defense. We recommend using a microfiber dust mop as it picks up dirt better than a regular broom. This prevents particles from scratching the surface and dimming the light.

Damp Mop

A sweeping wet mop is your next best friend. Use a pH-neutral cleaner mixed with water. Avoid harsh chemicals—they can damage the insulation and ruin the shine. Make sure the floor isn’t too wet when doing this. Excess water will seep into any small cracks or crevices, causing damage over time.

Weekly and Monthly Maintenance

Deep Cleaning

Frequent sweeping and wiping can also cause contamination to build up over time. That’s where deep cleaning comes in. Use an auto-scrubber with a non-abrasive pad. This helps to dirty up any stubbornness that a regular mop can’t handle. We offer the use of our SEBO free for the weekend for clients (T&C’s apply) if they want to DIY this. Contact us for more information.

Polish Regularly

Periodic polishing of your floors is essential to maintaining that high-gloss finish. We recommend using a professional polishing solution. Apply a high-speed burnisher to restore the shine. This also helps maintain a protective coating that keeps your floor fresh.

Addressing Stains and Spills

Immediate Action

Spills are inevitable, but acting fast can prevent lasting stains. For coffee, alcohol, or oil, wipe the spill immediately. The longer it stays on the surface, the more likely it is to penetrate the floor and damage the concrete.

Use a Gentle Cleaner

For tougher stains, use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid anything acidic, like vinegar or lemon juice, as these can etch the surface. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth and rub gently. If the stain persists, it might be time to call in the professionals.

Long-Term Maintenance Strategies

Resealing

Over time, the sealant that protects your polished concrete floor will deteriorate. The floor should be resealed every 2-3 years or 7 years depending on the system you choose, and the traffic. This process helps restore the protective coating that keeps your floor shiny and fresh.

Professional Polishing

Even with the best DIY efforts, nothing beats a professional touch. We recommend having your floors professionally polished every few years. At NZ Grinders, we use the latest techniques and equipment to bring out the best in your concrete floors.

Use Rugs and Mats

Strategically placing rugs and mats can do wonders for maintaining your polished concrete floors. Areas with high foot traffic, like entryways and hallways, can benefit greatly from this. Rugs not only add a decorative touch but also protect the floor from dirt and wear.

Preventative Measures

Furniture Pads

Scratches are a polished floor’s worst enemy. To prevent them, use furniture pads under chairs, tables, and other heavy objects. This simple step can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

Avoid High Heels

High heels might look great, but they can wreak havoc on polished concrete floors. Encourage a “no shoes” policy or provide slippers for guests to wear indoors. Trust us; your floors will thank you.

The Humorous Side of Maintenance

Maintaining polished concrete floors sounds like hard work, but it doesn’t have to be a drag. Picture this: You, sliding across the floor with a microfiber wipe, channeling your inner figure skater. Or, if you think about the joy of deep cleaning, which is like a treasure hunt, uncovering the details of hidden dust and dirt particles. Remember when your friend spilled red wine and you walked in with a mop like a superhero? That is the joy we are talking about. If you look carefully, maintenance can be enjoyable. (Well not really but at least we tried to make this blog a little more fun)

Conclusion

Polished concrete floors are a beautiful and practical choice for any space. With a bit of regular maintenance, they can stay looking stunning for years. From daily sweeping to periodic polishing, each step is crucial in preserving that glossy finish.

At NZ Grinders, we’re passionate about polished concrete and want to help you keep your floors in top shape. So, grab your mop, put on some music, and make floor maintenance a fun part of your routine. After all, a shiny floor is a happy floor!

For project-specific advice or information, please give us a call, North Island Glen 021-434-199, South Island Mike 027-281-8815 or email Ian, our sales manager.