Tips and Advice for Concrete Floors
Concrete flooring is a popular choice for all sorts of buildings, and it's easy to see why. Its durability, versatility, and clean look make it perfect for everything from industrial plants and commercial spaces to residential developments and beyond.
Nationwide Concrete have worked on thousands of projects across the UK, earning our reputation as some of the leading concrete flooring contractors in the country. We know exactly what it takes to keep your concrete floors in great shape, so take a look at our guide below for essential tips, best practices, and some common mistakes to avoid!
Concrete Floor Maintenance Tips
Concrete floors are easier to maintain than many other flooring options, especially with innovations like PrīmX in the picture. However, they still need a little care to keep them looking great and performing their best over time.
Read on for simple tips and common mistakes to avoid, so your concrete floors stay in top shape for years to come!
Good Practices
- Sweep or vacuum your floors regularly to keep dirt from scratching the surface and dulling their finish.
- Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas, as they need more frequent cleaning to handle wear and tear effectively.
- Clean up spills immediately - whether it’s water, oil, grease, or chemicals - to prevent staining or damage. Keep spill kits in convenient locations to make this easier.
- Always check that cleaning agents are safe for concrete surfaces. Test new products in a small, hidden spot before using them more widely.
- Stick to the care instructions provided by your concrete floor manufacturer to avoid damaging the floor or voiding its warranty.
- Establish a cleaning routine to stay consistent and keep your floors looking great without extra effort.
- Begin maintenance as soon as your concrete floors are in use. Taking care of them from day one helps prevent bigger problems down the line.
Bad Practices
- Too much cleaning solution can leave a residue and damage the finish, so always dilute it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Avoid mixing different cleaning agents - this can cause harmful reactions or damage your concrete floor.
- Fix small cracks or joint damage as soon as you notice them. Leaving them untreated can lead to bigger, more expensive problems later.
- Steer clear of harsh or overly abrasive brushes, as they can scratch or wear down the surface, taking away from its look and durability.
- Don’t leave brushes or cleaning equipment resting on the floor when not in use, as they can leave marks or indentations.
- When making repairs, avoid feathering out or using thin layers of material. Follow the recommended thickness and guidelines to ensure strong, long-lasting fixes.
- Stay away from products that are highly acidic or alkaline, as these can gradually damage the concrete and shorten its lifespan.
Concrete Floor Safety Tips
Whether it's an industrial facility or a retail store, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some practical tips for keeping your concrete floors safe and accident-free:
- Liquid spills can make surfaces slippery, especially when mixed with dust or dirt. Clean up spills quickly and mop floors regularly to prevent dust and debris from building up.
- Make sure the concrete floors in high-traffic areas have a non-slip finish, like a brushed or tamped texture, to help prevent slips (especially when the floor is wet). If your floors don't have a non-slip finish, you can apply a non-slip paint or coating instead.
- Use clear signage to warn people about potential hazards, such as wet floors, maintenance work, or construction zones.
- Encourage employees or anyone using the space to wear slip-resistant footwear, particularly in industrial or commercial environments.
- Inspect concrete floors regularly for cracks, uneven areas, or other damage that could cause tripping. Address and repair any issues as soon as possible to avoid accidents.
- Keep concrete-floored areas well-lit to help people spot obstacles, wet spots, or cracks that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Apply high-visibility paint or floor markings in hazardous areas like stairs, ramps, or wet-prone spots to make them easier to navigate.
Concrete Flooring Contractors You Can Trust
With over 40 years of experience in industrial concrete flooring, Nationwide Concreting is proud to be the go-to choice for businesses across the UK. We've worked on everything from factories and airports to museums and racecourses, helping to create beautiful, durable floors that stand the test of time.
Whatever type of concrete flooring you need, you can count on us to deliver premium-quality results, along with personalised advice on keeping your floors looking and performing their best.
Ready to give your building the perfect concrete flooring? Get a quote online or give us a call on 01590 676 585 today!
Agricultural
Grain stores, poultry sheds, stables and barns as well as service roads and large external yards.
Defence
Barracks and exercise yards for the MoD - achieving contractors security clearance.
Commercial
High level, Multi-Level and Mezzanine floors, Crinkly Pin & Pre-Made slab placement with 75mm screed.
Industrial & Retail
Warehouses, Chiller Units, Retail Units and for leading UK Superstores.
