Polished Concrete Overlay / Terrazzo Overlays
Polished Concrete Overlay
InStyle Stone specialises in cement-based polished concrete overlay systems for commercial, hospitality, retail and residential projects.
Our polished concrete overlays are designed to create the appearance and performance of architectural polished concrete without requiring the depth of a traditional full-thickness concrete slab. Installed over a suitably prepared substrate, the overlay is mechanically ground, honed or polished and sealed to produce a refined, durable and seamless concrete finish.
Polished concrete overlays are particularly suited to renovations, fit-outs and architectural projects where existing floor levels, construction depth or design requirements make conventional concrete impractical.
We work with architects, designers, builders and homeowners to develop finishes using carefully selected cement bases, aggregates and pigments. Each floor can be tailored to achieve the required colour, aggregate exposure and level of sheen while responding to the practical requirements of the space.
Suitable Applications
Our polished concrete overlay systems are suitable for a wide range of projects, including:
- Commercial interiors
- Retail stores and showrooms
- Restaurants, cafés and hospitality venues
- Workplace and office fit-outs
- Residential renovations
- Existing concrete floor upgrades
- New-build architectural interiors
- Areas requiring a reduced floor build-up
Finish Options
Polished concrete overlays can be customised to create a wide range of architectural finishes, including:
- Honed matte concrete
- Low-sheen satin finishes
- Refined polished concrete
- Light, medium or exposed aggregate finishes
- Custom aggregate blends
- Custom cement colours and pigments
- Natural grey concrete tones
- Warm neutral and off-white finishes
The degree of aggregate exposure can also be controlled during the grinding process, allowing the floor to range from a subtle concrete appearance through to a more visibly exposed aggregate finish.
Benefits of a Polished Concrete Overlay
A cement-based polished concrete overlay provides many of the visual qualities of traditional polished concrete while offering greater flexibility for refurbishment and fit-out projects.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced floor build-up compared with full-depth concrete
- Suitable for installation over appropriately prepared existing substrates
- Durable and hard-wearing
- Seamless architectural appearance
- Customisable colour and aggregate selection
- Multiple levels of aggregate exposure
- Honed, satin or polished finishes available
- Low-maintenance when correctly sealed
- Suitable for many commercial and residential applications
Substrate Preparation
The performance of a polished concrete overlay depends heavily on the condition and preparation of the substrate.
Before installation, InStyle Stone considers the existing floor condition, movement and construction joints, moisture, cracking, floor levels, intended use and required finish.
Preparation may include:
- Mechanical grinding
- Removal of contaminants or existing coatings
- Priming
- Crack treatment
- Reinforcement where required
- Moisture mitigation
- Levelling or remedial preparation
The preparation method is determined on a project-by-project basis to create the most appropriate foundation for the overlay system.
Grinding, Honing & Polishing
Once installed and cured, the surface is mechanically processed through a controlled grinding and honing system.
The level of grinding determines the amount of aggregate exposed, while progressively finer tooling creates the required surface refinement.
The finished floor can range from a natural matte concrete appearance to a refined low-sheen or polished finish depending on the design intent and performance requirements.
Sealing & Maintenance
Completed polished concrete overlays are sealed using professional penetrating or protective sealing systems selected for the application.
Correct sealing assists with resistance to staining, moisture penetration and everyday wear while maintaining the natural appearance of the concrete.
Routine cleaning and appropriate maintenance will help preserve the finish and extend the life of the floor.
Custom Polished Concrete Finishes
InStyle Stone can develop custom polished concrete overlay mixes using different cement tones, pigments and aggregate combinations.
This allows architects and designers to create a floor specifically suited to the material palette of the project rather than being restricted to a standard polished concrete colour.
For projects requiring a simpler specification, our IS Overlay Core Range provides a selection of established polished concrete overlay finishes suitable for a wide range of architectural interiors.
Discuss Your Polished Concrete Overlay Project
If you are considering a polished concrete overlay for an existing floor, renovation, retail fit-out, hospitality venue or new architectural project, contact InStyle Stone to discuss the substrate, required finish, floor build-up and design requirements.
We can assist from early design and sample development through to substrate preparation, installation, grinding, polishing and sealing.
Send Enquiry Here
Date:
August 11, 2017
