Polished concrete floors are a popular choice for homes and businesses, and for good reason. They offer a unique combination of durability, style, and low maintenance that’s hard to beat. However, “low maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance.”
To keep your polished concrete floors looking their best and to ensure their longevity, it’s important to follow a regular maintenance routine. In this guide, we’ll share our expert tips for maintaining polished concrete floors so you can enjoy them for years to come.
As experts in polished concrete and other concrete flooring solutions, Coating Designs has helped countless home and business owners throughout Central Florida and the surrounding communities. We’re passionate about what we do, and we’re always happy to share our knowledge with our clients.
What Maintenance Does Polished Concrete Need?
Polished concrete floors are incredibly resilient, but they can still be damaged. The key to keeping them in pristine condition is to be proactive with your maintenance.
Here are the fundamental steps you should follow:
Dust Mopping
The most important thing you can do to maintain your polished concrete floors is to dust mop them daily. Dirt, dust, and grit are the biggest enemies of a polished concrete floor. These small particles can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface and dulling the finish over time.
A microfiber dust mop is the most effective tool for this job, as it traps and removes fine particles that a traditional broom may leave behind.
Wet Mopping
In addition to daily dust mopping, mop your floors regularly with a wet mop. The frequency of wet mopping will depend on the amount of traffic your floors receive. For residential floors, once a week is usually sufficient. For commercial floors with heavy foot traffic, you may need to wet mop daily.
When wet mopping, it’s crucial to use the right cleaning solution. Harsh cleaners that contain acids, alkalis, or other corrosive chemicals can damage the protective layer on your polished concrete floors.
We recommend using a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for polished concrete. You can also use a simple solution of warm water and a small amount of a mild, pH-neutral soap. Always rinse the floor with clean water after mopping to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.
Address Spills Immediately
Spills, especially those that are acidic or oily, should be cleaned up promptly. Use a clean, absorbent cloth to blot the spill, and then clean the area with a pH-neutral cleaner. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a poultice or a specialized stain remover. If you’re unsure about how to treat a particular stain, consult a professional.
Preventive Maintenance for Polished Concrete Floors
There are other things you can do to keep your polished concrete floors in top condition:
Use Walk-Off Mats
Place high-quality walk-off mats at all entrances to your home or business. These mats will help trap dirt, grit, and moisture before they reach your floors. This simple step can significantly reduce the amount of cleaning you need to do and will help protect your floors from scratches and wear.
Protect Against Scratches
While polished concrete is very hard, it can still be scratched by heavy or sharp objects. Use felt pads or other protective coverings on the bottom of furniture legs to prevent them from damaging the floor. When moving heavy furniture or equipment, be sure to lift it rather than dragging it across the floor.
Re-Sealing & Re-Polishing
Over time, the protective finish on polished concrete floors—whether a topical sealer, densifier, or guard—may begin to wear down, especially in high-traffic areas. This can leave the floor looking dull or more susceptible to staining.
Depending on traffic and usage, it may be necessary to reapply the protective layer every 2 to 5 years, or sooner in commercial environments. In some cases, the floor may benefit from a light re-polish to restore its original shine. Using the appropriate product for your floor (sealer vs. densifier/guard) is essential to maintain aesthetics and durability.
Need Help With Your Concrete Floor? Give Us a Call.
Coating Designs is more than a flooring company. We’re your partners in creating beautiful, durable, and long-lasting floors. Whether you’re interested in polished concrete, epoxy coatings, or any of our other flooring solutions, we’re here to help.
We proudly serve homes and businesses throughout Central Florida, providing top-notch service and exceptional results. If you have any questions about polished concrete floor maintenance or if you’d like to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’re always happy to share our expertise and help you find the perfect flooring solution for your needs. And if you’re looking for inspiration, be sure to check out our gallery of completed projects.
