Our process
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If you’re exploring Polished Concrete for an upcoming renovation or commercial build, you’re investing in something that’s both beautiful and built to last. It’s a regular feature on our clients’ wish lists, and for good reason. Suitable for both residential and commercial settings, Polished Concrete is praised for its strength, versatility, and sustainability. With its exceptional durability and long lifespan, it’s an ideal choice for those conscious of the environmental impact of their build.
With over 25 years’ combined experience, the Woody’s team has delivered installations across the UK. Our knowledge spans the full design and build process, and we work closely with clients and contractors to coordinate every stage, from substrate preparation through to final seal
Polished Concrete Floor Colour Chart.
Site survey
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Throughout the substrate preparation phase, carried out by your main contractor, we remain in close contact to help guide timings, including coordination with third-party installations such as windows and doors.
Roughly ten days ahead of your pour date, a member of our team will attend the site to survey the preparations. This window allows enough time to address any final snagging before work begins.
At this point, we’ll also take final measurements and confirm layout details, including the placement of crack-inducement joints, while discussing your desired finish and any final specifications for the floor.
Installation
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Once the substrate is complete and sitting 100mm below the finished floor level, Woody’s will need access to the site 2–3 days before the pour to receive deliveries and begin preparations.
Where possible, we aim to complete the pour in a single day to ensure consistency of colour across the slab. We use a ‘flooded bay’ method to distribute the concrete evenly, and add reinforcement in the form of steel mesh and fibre additives to strengthen the mix and limit cracking over time.
The slab is then finished using a combination of power floats and hand trowels to densify the surface. After laying, the floor must remain free from traffic for at least 24 hours. We’ll then return to cut the necessary crack joints and apply protective sheeting, after which ongoing works can typically resume with care 48 hours later.
Aftercare
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Once protected, this must remain in place for 28 days to allow it to cure fully. We’ll then return to remove the protection, clean the surface, and apply the final seal.
If your floor includes underfloor heating, we recommend gradually increasing the temperature, no more than 1°C per day, to avoid shocking the slab and causing hairline cracks. Should any issues arise, Woody’s also offers a full maintenance and repair service.
Your floor will be sealed using a professional-grade concrete sealant used widely in industrial settings for its resilience against staining and surface wear. Polished Concrete is low maintenance, and we provide clients with a selection of tried-and-tested cleaning products.
Top Tip: Wipe up spills as soon as practical, and avoid abrasive or bleach-based cleaners to keep your floor looking its best.
Still not sure? Visit our FAQs.
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