CONCRETE FLOORING
FAQs
Questions about polished concrete, terrazzo or choosing the right finish? We've brought together some of the key things to consider when planning a concrete flooring project.
PLANNING A
FLOORING PROJECT?
Every project is different. The existing floor, intended use of the space, project stage and desired appearance can all influence the approach. These FAQs provide a useful starting point, but SKM can also discuss the individual requirements of your project.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT
POLISHED CONCRETE
If you are considering polished concrete for your home, commercial premises or another project, these are some of the first questions you may have.
WHAT IS POLISHED CONCRETE?
Polished concrete is a finished concrete surface created through a mechanical grinding and polishing process. The process can reveal different amounts of aggregate within the concrete and create a distinctive finished appearance.
WHERE CAN POLISHED CONCRETE BE USED?
Polished concrete can be considered for a wide variety of domestic and commercial interiors, including kitchens, extensions, open-plan living areas, retail spaces, offices, showrooms and commercial premises.
CAN I CHOOSE HOW MUCH AGGREGATE IS VISIBLE?
Different levels of aggregate exposure can create very different appearances. These can range from minimal exposure through to salt-and-pepper and more heavily exposed aggregate finishes.
WILL EVERY POLISHED CONCRETE FLOOR LOOK THE SAME?
No. Concrete is naturally variable, so aggregate distribution, colour and surface character can differ from floor to floor. This individuality forms part of the appearance of the finished material.
CAN AN EXISTING CONCRETE FLOOR BE POLISHED?
An existing concrete slab may be suitable, but it needs to be considered individually. Its condition, construction, previous coverings, repairs and the appearance you want to achieve are all relevant when assessing the floor.
WHAT IF I AM HAVING A NEW CONCRETE FLOOR INSTALLED?
If polished concrete is being considered for a new project, it is useful to think about the intended finished appearance early. The concrete itself will become part of the visible finished floor rather than simply being hidden beneath another covering.
If possible, send SKM photographs, plans, the approximate floor area and examples of finishes you like. This gives us a better starting point for discussing your project.
EXISTING CONCRETE
& NEW FLOORS
Whether you already have a concrete slab or are planning a completely new floor, understanding the project at an early stage can help when discussing the finished appearance you would like to achieve.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY EXISTING CONCRETE FLOOR CAN BE POLISHED?
Existing floors need to be considered individually. The condition of the concrete, previous floor coverings, repairs and construction of the slab can all be relevant. Photographs and basic project information are a useful first step when contacting SKM.
WHAT IF MY EXISTING FLOOR HAS CRACKS OR REPAIRS?
Cracks, previous repairs and variations within an existing slab should be identified when the floor is assessed. They may influence both the approach to the project and the visual character of the finished surface.
SHOULD I CONTACT SKM BEFORE A NEW CONCRETE FLOOR IS LAID?
Yes, ideally discuss the project with SKM while it is still being planned. If the concrete is intended to become the visible finished floor, considering the desired appearance early gives everyone involved a clearer understanding of the project.
DOES THE CONCRETE ITSELF AFFECT THE FINAL APPEARANCE?
Yes. The concrete and aggregate form part of the visible finished surface. Natural variation in the material means that colour, aggregate distribution and overall character can differ from one floor to another.
CAN OLD FLOOR COVERINGS AFFECT THE PROJECT?
Previous coverings and the condition of the concrete beneath them are useful things to identify when considering an existing floor. Tell SKM what has previously been installed over the concrete where this information is known.
WHAT SHOULD I SEND SKM TO ASSESS MY FLOOR?
Start with clear photographs, the approximate floor area, project location, how the space will be used and whether the floor is existing or part of a new project. Plans or drawings can also be useful where available.
NEW FLOOR?
CHOOSING THE LOOK
OF YOUR FLOOR
Aggregate exposure, surface sheen and the natural character of the concrete all contribute to the final appearance. Here are some of the most common questions about choosing a finish.
WHAT IS MINIMAL AGGREGATE EXPOSURE?
Minimal exposure creates a more understated concrete appearance, with relatively little aggregate visible across the finished surface.
WHAT IS A SALT & PEPPER FINISH?
A salt-and-pepper appearance involves lighter aggregate exposure, revealing smaller aggregate across the surface and adding more visual detail to the concrete.
WHAT IS FULL AGGREGATE EXPOSURE?
With greater aggregate exposure, the stone within the concrete becomes a much more prominent part of the finished floor and its overall character.
CAN I CHOOSE THE LEVEL OF SHEEN?
The desired surface appearance can be discussed as part of the project, from a more understated matt look through to satin or a higher-sheen appearance. Available options will depend on the individual flooring system and project specification.
CAN I CHOOSE AN EXACT CONCRETE COLOUR?
Concrete is a naturally variable material, so an existing or finished concrete floor should not be expected to reproduce an inspiration photograph exactly. Colour and visual character can vary according to the concrete and project specification.
CAN I SEND SKM PHOTOS OF FLOORS I LIKE?
Yes. Inspiration images are particularly useful because they help show the general appearance, aggregate exposure and style you are considering. They should be treated as design guidance rather than a guarantee of an identical finished floor.
If you have seen a concrete floor you like, send SKM the photograph. We can use it alongside your project details to understand the type of appearance you are considering.
COMMON QUESTIONS
ABOUT TERRAZZO
Terrazzo provides a more design-led approach to flooring, with the relationship between background colour, aggregate and the overall composition helping to create its distinctive appearance.
WHAT IS TERRAZZO FLOORING?
Terrazzo is a decorative flooring approach where visible aggregate forms an important part of the finished surface. The combination of the background and aggregate gives terrazzo its distinctive visual character.
WHERE CAN TERRAZZO FLOORING BE USED?
Terrazzo can be considered for domestic interiors as well as commercial spaces such as retail, hospitality, showrooms and other design-led interior projects.
CAN I CHOOSE THE COLOUR OF MY TERRAZZO?
Colour forms an important part of the overall terrazzo design. The background colour can be considered alongside the aggregate and the wider interior to establish the design direction for the floor.
CAN I CHOOSE THE AGGREGATE APPEARANCE?
The colour, scale and visual character of the aggregate contribute to the overall terrazzo appearance. The options appropriate to your project can be discussed when considering the floor design.
WILL MY TERRAZZO FLOOR LOOK EXACTLY LIKE AN INSPIRATION PHOTO?
Inspiration photographs are best used to communicate the style and overall design direction you like. Materials and individual project specifications can vary, so they should not be treated as a guarantee of an identical finished floor.
WHAT SHOULD I SEND SKM ABOUT A TERRAZZO PROJECT?
Send the project location, approximate floor area, intended use of the space and current project stage. Photos, plans and examples of terrazzo or interiors you like are also particularly helpful.
You don't need to know exactly how your terrazzo floor should be specified before contacting SKM. Send us examples of floors and interiors you like together with your project details, and we can start the conversation from there.
QUOTES &
PROJECT QUESTIONS
Ready to take the next step? You don't need to have every detail decided before contacting SKM. The more information you can provide about your project, the easier it is to start the conversation.
HOW DO I GET A QUOTE?
Contact SKM with some basic information about your project. Include the location, approximate floor area, type of flooring you are considering and the current stage of the project. Photos or plans are also useful where available.
DO YOU WORK ON DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL PROJECTS?
SKM is developing its concrete flooring services for both domestic and commercial projects, from residential interiors and extensions to retail, office, commercial and industrial environments.
WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT SKM?
As early as possible is useful, particularly when polished concrete or terrazzo forms part of a new construction or renovation project. This allows the intended finished floor to be considered while the wider project is being planned.
DO I NEED TO KNOW EXACTLY WHICH FINISH I WANT?
No. If you are unsure, send photographs of floors or interiors you like. Inspiration images can help communicate whether you prefer a subtle concrete appearance, exposed aggregate or a more design-led terrazzo finish.
CAN I SEND PHOTOS OR FLOOR PLANS?
Yes. Clear photographs, floor plans, drawings and other project information can all provide useful context when discussing your requirements with SKM.
WHAT IF I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Get in touch with SKM and tell us about the project you are considering. You can start with the basic details and any images or plans you already have available.
TALK TO SKM
ABOUT YOUR
FLOORING PROJECT
Whether you're considering polished concrete, terrazzo, an existing concrete floor or a completely new project, send us the details and tell us what you would like to achieve.