Blog

Polished concrete has emerged as a versatile and highly sought-after flooring solution, offering a perfect blend of aesthetics, durability, and sustainability.

A smooth and glossy finish is achieved through a meticulous process of grinding and polishing concrete surfaces, transforming mundane floors into stunning focal points. Unlike traditional flooring materials, polished concrete utilizes the existing concrete slab, making it a natural and eco-friendly choice.

This process not only enhances the appearance of the space but also reinforces the concrete, making it resistant to stains, abrasion, and impact.  

Choose BNE for Polished Concrete

BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings holds the distinction of being the first contractor in Canada to introduce polished concrete flooring.

Our pioneering efforts have popularized this flooring solution and set a standard for quality and innovation in the industry. By offering expert installation and unparalleled craftsmanship, BNE has helped countless clients transform their spaces with the timeless elegance of polished concrete.  Contact us today!

Polished Concrete for Retail Spaces

Architects and Designers are increasingly opting for polished concrete in high-end retail stores due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and versatility.

Polished concrete offers a modern, sleek look that aligns well with contemporary design trends, enhancing the overall upscale ambience of retail spaces. Its smooth surface reflects light, creating a bright and spacious feel, accentuating merchandise displays and attracting customers.  

Polished Concrete Durability, Maintenance & Versatility

Additionally, polished concrete is highly durable and capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic. It maintains its aesthetic quality over time with minimal maintenance. Its versatility allows for customization through various finishing techniques, colours, and decorative options, enabling designers to create unique and visually striking interiors tailored to the brand's image and target clientele.

Sustainability

Furthermore, the sustainability aspect of polished concrete, with its minimal environmental impact compared to other flooring materials, resonates well with consumers' growing preference for eco-friendly products and practices, further adding to its appeal in high-end retail settings.  

Safety Features

One of the most significant advantages of polished concrete flooring is its exceptional safety features, particularly in meeting national slip resistance standards.   

Polished concrete naturally has a low coefficient of friction, a characteristic upheld by adhering to ASTM Standards such as ASTM C1028. These standards measure the static coefficient of friction (SCOF) of surfaces. Polished concrete typically achieves a SCOF value above the recommended threshold, indicating sufficient traction to prevent slipping. Shiny floors do not mean they are slippery floors!  

Environmental Benefits of Polished Concrete

Polished concrete floors also present real and lasting environmental benefits. By repurposing existing concrete slabs or utilizing new concrete floors, there is no need for additional materials like laminates or ceramics.

The reduction in debris, labour, and packaging can have a massive effect on a project's carbon footprint. This aligns with sustainable building practices and may even qualify for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits, contributing to green building certification efforts.  

Conclusion

Concrete is not just a mass of hard grey stone but a natural floor that can be customized. Clients can choose the level of shine, aggregate exposure, dye colours, and joint filling options to achieve their desired aesthetic and performance goals.  

Whether aiming for a sleek modern look or a rustic industrial vibe, polished concrete provides endless possibilities for creating unique and visually stunning spaces.  

In conclusion, polished concrete flooring is a superior choice for its unparalleled modern aesthetic, safety, sustainability, and versatility.  

With BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings leading the way in Canada, more businesses are discovering this innovative flooring solution's transformative potential, enhancing aesthetics and functionality in diverse settings. 

There are currently 5,583 grocery stores in Ontario. As of June 2023, there are 52,800 retail store locations across Ontario. These grocery and retail stores across the province are high-traffic locations, which individuals visit ongoingly to purchase food and home goods.

These establishments are pillars in every community, and they are constantly evolving to meet a growing population and people’s immediate needs. Businesses are seeking innovative ways to create attractive, functional, and inviting environments for their customers.

One crucial aspect that often shapes the overall ambiance and customer experience is the choice of flooring. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of polished concrete floors in retail settings. Polished concrete has emerged as a remarkable solution that combines both aesthetic appeal and practicality, making it an ideal choice for modern retail and grocery spaces.

The flooring in retail and grocery spaces plays a significant role in setting the tone for the entire establishment. It's not just about providing a surface to walk on. It serves as the foundation upon which the entire customer journey is built. From the moment shoppers step inside to the final interaction at the checkout, the flooring has a subtle, yet powerful impact on how visitors perceive the store's atmosphere, cleanliness, and overall brand identity. The right flooring choice can enhance the overall experience and leave a lasting impression on customers.

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. We use industry-leading technology and expertise to provide the client with a concrete structure that will last. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source in providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next retail construction project. We are just one phone call or email away!

Advantages of Polished Concrete Floors

By capitalizing on the following advantages of polished concrete flooring, retail and grocery spaces can create a dynamic and functional environment that not only impresses customers but also contributes to long-term cost savings and sustainable practices.

Durability and Longevity

Polished concrete floors are renowned for their exceptional durability, making them well-suited for high-traffic retail and grocery spaces.

The dense and solid nature of concrete makes it resistant to wear, abrasion, and impact, ensuring the floor maintains its integrity over time. This durability translates to a reduced need for frequent repairs or replacements, leading to long-term cost savings.

Low Maintenance and Easy Cleaning

Polished concrete floors have a smooth, seamless surface that minimizes the accumulation of dust, dirt, and allergens.

Routine maintenance involves simple cleaning methods like sweeping, mopping, and occasional buffing, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals or specialized cleaning products.

The absence of grout lines or grooves prevents the buildup of grime, making maintenance hassle-free and promoting a cleaner environment.

High-Traffic Suitability

Retail and grocery spaces experience constant foot traffic, shopping carts, and heavy loads.

Polished concrete's sturdy composition enables it to withstand the rigors of these environments.

The surface resists scratches, scuffs, and dents caused by various activities, ensuring the floor maintains its polished appearance even in busy areas.

Aesthetic Appeal and Customization

Polished concrete floors offer a sleek, modern aesthetic that can complement a wide range of interior designs and branding strategies. The shine and reflective qualities of polished concrete contribute to a visually appealing atmosphere, enhancing the overall appearance of the space.

Customization options include different levels of sheen, decorative scoring, staining, and embedding designs or logos, allowing businesses to tailor the floor's look to their specific needs.

Sustainability

Polished concrete floors often utilize existing concrete slabs, reducing the need for additional materials and minimizing waste.

The process of polishing concrete involves using non-toxic chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly choice compared to certain floor coverings that release VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Polished concrete's reflective properties can enhance natural lighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting and promoting energy efficiency.

Polished Concrete vs. Other Flooring Options

Comparing polished concrete with traditional flooring alternatives allows businesses to make informed decisions that align with their objectives for longevity, cost-effectiveness, and design adaptability in their retail and grocery spaces.

Let’s further explore:

Comparison with Traditional Flooring Materials (e.g., tiles, vinyl, carpet)

• Polished concrete offers a distinct advantage over traditional flooring materials like tiles, vinyl, and carpet in terms of durability and longevity.
• Unlike carpet, polished concrete doesn't trap allergens, making it a healthier option for retail and grocery environments.
• Polished concrete eliminates grout lines and seams, reducing the potential for dirt and debris buildup compared to tiled floors.

VCT vs. Polished Concrete

• In the retail world, VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) remains the dominant floor covering in use. A VCT floor costs $3.00 per foot to install on average across the country. Standard VCT has to be waxed, as the finish provided by the factory does not last long as the wearable surface. Maintenance for VCT averages $2.00 per foot per year. The cost of maintenance includes scrubbing the floor nightly, buffing the floor regularly to remove scuffs from foot traffic and regular strip and wax services. Generally, VCT lasts seven to ten years before it deteriorates to the point where it needs to be replaced.
• Polished concrete has an average install cost of $5.00 per foot in a remodel environment. If installed at the time of a remodel (versus new construction which generally has a cheaper price) polished concrete costs $2.00 more per foot to install, but a good maintenance program has an average cost of $1.00 per foot per year. In two years, the difference of the install costs has been recovered. From that point forward, the floor maintenance is actually saving money for the customer. Polished concrete never has to be completely redone and there is no removal.

Cost-Effectiveness

• While the initial installation cost of polished concrete may be higher than some flooring options, its long-term cost-effectiveness becomes evident. Polished concrete's durability and low maintenance requirements result in reduced repair and replacement expenses over time.
• Businesses can benefit from extended lifespan and minimal maintenance costs, ultimately contributing to a more efficient use of resources.

Adaptability to Changing Design Trends

• Polished concrete's neutral and contemporary aesthetic lends itself well to various interior design styles and trends.
• Unlike certain flooring materials that may become outdated quickly, polished concrete remains versatile and can easily be paired with evolving design concepts. The surface can be customized with different finishes, stains, and patterns, allowing retail and grocery spaces to stay current with design preferences.

Enhancing Retail and Grocery Spaces

Through the use of polished concrete flooring, businesses can elevate their retail and grocery spaces, cultivating a modern, brand-consistent, and customer-centric environment that resonates with visitors and encourages repeat visits.

They do so by:

Creating a Modern Environment

Polished concrete floors inherently exude a modern and sophisticated ambiance that aligns well with contemporary retail and grocery aesthetics. The seamless and reflective surface of polished concrete contributes to an open and spacious feel, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the space. The sleek appearance of polished concrete complements various design elements, allowing for a cohesive and inviting environment.

Establishing A Brand Identity

The choice of flooring plays a pivotal role in communicating a brand's identity and values to customers. Polished concrete floors can be tailored to match the brand's colour palette, logo, and overall design theme, reinforcing brand recognition and creating a consistent experience.

Contributing to The Customer Experience

The customer experience is heavily influenced by the overall ambiance and aesthetics of the retail or grocery space. Polished concrete's reflective properties create a brighter atmosphere by maximizing natural and artificial light, creating a welcoming and warm environment for shoppers.

The clean and polished surface of the floor contributes to a sense of cleanliness and order, enhancing the overall perception of the store's hygiene and quality. The smoothness of the polished concrete surface also contributes to a comfortable and effortless shopping experience, reducing fatigue from walking and pushing carts. When customers feel comfortable and engaged within the space, they are more likely to spend time exploring and making purchasing decisions.

Final Thoughts

Through this blog post, we shared how to elevate retail and grocery spaces to new heights through the application of polished concrete floors.

These floors, renowned for their durability and low-maintenance attributes, present an ideal solution for high-traffic environments. The seamless and reflective surfaces not only foster a sleek and modern atmosphere but also provide a canvas for brand identity, incorporating customizable designs and logos.

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. We use industry-leading technology and expertise to provide the client with a concrete structure that will last. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source in providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next retail construction project. We are just one phone call or email away!

Polished concrete floors have emerged as a revolutionary trend in the world of interior design and flooring solutions.

This innovative approach to flooring involves treating concrete surfaces to create a glossy, smooth finish that not only looks stylish but also offers an array of practical benefits.

In recent years, the popularity of polished concrete as a preferred flooring choice has been on the rise, captivating the attention of architects, and business owners alike. In this blog post, we will share some of the compelling advantages that polished concrete floors, comparing them to other traditional and contemporary flooring options.

Whether you're planning the design of a commercial space or an industrial floor, the insights shared here will equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed flooring decision that combines style, sustainability, and practicality.

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source in providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away!

Sustainability

Polished concrete floors shine not only in terms of aesthetics and performance but also in their sustainability. One of the most compelling aspects of polished concrete is its minimal environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.

Environmentally Friendly Materials: Polished concrete's environmentally friendly composition, utilizing existing concrete substrates rather than depleting scarce resources, minimizes the strain on natural materials.

Recycling and Repurposing: Repurposing existing concrete floors minimizes waste and energy consumption by avoiding the need for new raw materials and the removal of old flooring.

Energy Efficiency: It consumes less energy than other flooring materials due to its less energy-intensive grinding and polishing processes, contributing to a lower carbon footprint during installation.

Chemical-Free Maintenance: Polished concrete floors enhance indoor air quality by using eco-friendly sealers with reduced VOC emissions and requiring minimal chemical cleaners during maintenance, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

Comparing to Other Materials: Polished concrete's simplified production process highlights its eco-consciousness compared to resource-intensive methods of producing hardwood, petrochemical-based carpets, or certain tiles, making it a more sustainable flooring choice.

Durability and Longevity

Polished concrete floors have impressive durability that sets them apart from many other flooring options.

Let's explore the key aspects that make them exceptionally long-lasting:

Outstanding Resilience: Polished concrete is renowned for its remarkable resilience against wear, tear, and the stresses of daily use. It can endure heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, and the impacts of dropped objects without showing significant signs of damage.

Abrasion Resistance: The polishing process involves grinding the concrete surface to create a smooth finish, removing any weak or porous areas. This results in a dense, compact surface that can resist abrasion and withstand the movement of people and objects without deteriorating.

Reduced Maintenance: Due to its durable nature, polished concrete requires less frequent maintenance compared to other flooring materials. Its resistance to scratching, scuffing, and staining means that it retains its glossy appearance over time with minimal effort. Polished concrete floors never require waxing or stripping.

Longevity Over Time: The longevity of polished concrete is a standout feature. While other flooring materials may fade, warp, or lose their appeal over the years, polished concrete maintains its lustre and performance for an extended period.

Contrast with Other Materials: Polished concrete's durability contrasts with the susceptibility of other flooring options to damage. Carpets can stain and wear out, hardwood can scratch and dent, and tiles can crack or chip. Such issues often need repairs or replacements, incurring additional costs and inconvenience. Polished concrete is not sensitive to high moisture and therefore will never delaminate.

Sustainability in Durability: The longevity of polished concrete contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Cost-Effectiveness

Polished concrete floors offer a cost-effective flooring solution.

Here are some ways in which polished concrete can save you money over time:

Long-Term Investment: While the initial cost of installing polished concrete floors might be comparable to or slightly higher than other flooring options, it's essential to view it as a long-term investment. The durability and longevity of polished concrete mean that you won't need to budget for replacements or repairs as frequently as you would with other materials.

Reduced Maintenance Expenses: Polished concrete floors require minimal maintenance, which translates to significant savings over the years. It can be maintained with basic cleaning routines, reducing the need for specialized cleaning products or professional services.

Stain and Moisture Resistance: The natural resistance of polished concrete to stains and moisture contributes to its cost-effectiveness. Spills and accidents can be cleaned up easily without leaving permanent marks or requiring expensive treatments. This attribute is particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas prone to spills, such as grocery store aisles or commercial spaces.

Energy Efficiency: Polished concrete's reflective surface can help improve natural lighting by bouncing light around a space. This can lead to reduced reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours, potentially contributing to lower energy bills.

Return on Investment: Polished concrete's ability to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space can lead to increased property value. Whether in a residential or commercial setting, the visual impact of polished concrete can positively influence potential buyers or tenants, potentially providing a return on your initial investment.

Comparison to Other Flooring: When comparing the long-term costs of polished concrete to other flooring alternatives, the savings become evident. Carpet needs regular cleaning and replacement, hardwood requires refinishing, and some tile materials might demand specialized cleaning products to maintain their appearance.

Low Maintenance Requirements

Polished concrete floors are known for their exceptionally low maintenance demands.

Here's how polished concrete's ease of cleaning and maintenance makes it a preferred choice:

Sweeping and Dusting: Cleaning polished concrete floors is as simple as regular sweeping or dusting.

Mopping with Water: For routine cleaning, an auto scrubber with a PH neutral cleaner is usually sufficient. Polished concrete's non-porous nature means that spills and stains are less likely to penetrate, allowing for quick and hassle-free cleanup.

No Special Cleaning Agents: Unlike some flooring materials that necessitate specific cleaning agents or treatments, polished concrete doesn't require any specialized products merely a PH neutral cleaner and water.

Resistance to Stains: Polished concrete's surface is highly resistant to stains from spills like coffee, wine, or even oil. This resistance is particularly valuable in high-traffic areas or spaces prone to accidents, such as kitchens or dining areas.

Comparing to Other Flooring: When contrasted with other flooring materials like Vinyl tile, hardwood or carpet, polished concrete's maintenance demands are notably easier. Vinyl tile requires regular stripping and waxing, carpets require regular vacuuming and cleaning, while hardwood might need refinishing and protection from moisture. These additional maintenance steps can be time-consuming and costly.

Aesthetic Appeal and Design Flexibility

Polished concrete floors stand out for their modern aesthetic charm.

Let's explore how their visual appeal and design flexibility make them an excellent choice for a wide range of spaces:

Contemporary Elegance: Polished concrete floors exude a sleek and contemporary elegance that aligns well with modern interior design trends.

Reflective Surface: The reflective quality of polished concrete adds depth and dimension to rooms, making them appear more open and spacious.

Neutral Canvas: The neutral, subdued tones of polished concrete provide a versatile canvas for interior design. It complements a variety of colour palettes, allowing for easy integration of furniture, decor, and artwork.

Minimalist Aesthetic: Polished concrete's simplicity aligns with the minimalist design approach, where less is more. Its clean and uncluttered appearance contributes to a sense of calm and order in a space.

Blend with Various Styles: Polished concrete is remarkably versatile, seamlessly integrating into a variety of interior design styles. Whether it's industrial, modern, rustic, or even traditional, polished concrete can be adapted to match the aesthetics of the space.

Seamless Transition Between Spaces: In open-concept layouts, polished concrete floors create a seamless visual transition between different areas of a home or commercial space. This continuity enhances the flow and coherence of the overall design.

Future-Proof Design: Polished concrete's timeless aesthetic ensures that it remains relevant as design trends evolve.

Health Benefits

Polished concrete's positive impact on indoor air quality, hypoallergenic properties, and resistance to mold and mildew make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize the health and well-being of their living or working spaces.

Improved Indoor Air Quality: Polished concrete's non-porous surface prevents the accumulation of dust, allergens, and microorganisms that can degrade indoor air quality.

Hypoallergenic Properties: Unlike carpets that can trap allergens and dust mites, polished concrete's smooth surface leaves no room for these irritants to take hold. This makes polished concrete a preferred choice for those seeking hypoallergenic flooring.

Mold and Mildew Resistance: Polished concrete's resistance to moisture prevents the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a concern with flooring materials like carpet or hardwood.

Ease of Cleaning: The ease of cleaning and maintenance associated with polished concrete contributes to a cleaner living space.

Reduction in VOCs: Polished concrete typically requires fewer chemical treatments and sealers compared to other flooring options. This results in reduced emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to indoor air pollution and have adverse health effects.

Commercial Benefits: In commercial spaces where the health and productivity of employees or visitors are paramount, the health benefits of polished concrete contribute to a more comfortable and conducive environment.

Comparing to Other Flooring: Other flooring materials like carpets can harbor dust, pet dander, and even pests, contributing to allergies and respiratory issues. Additionally, materials like laminate or certain types of vinyl flooring may contain VOCs that emit harmful chemicals into the air.

Final Thoughts

There are many benefits to choosing polished concrete flooring over its traditional counterparts. Whether you value sustainability, a health-conscious environment, a durable product, long-term savings, having to do bare minimum maintenance or having design flexibility, polished concrete offers something for everyone’s budget and priorities.

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source in providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away!