Polished Concrete Work Surfaces and Floors For Outside Kitchens

As a weather proof functional alternative to your outside kitchen work surfaces or flooring why not consider polished concrete?

It is a stylish alternative to a marble finish and generally less expensive. Polished concrete provides a beautiful contemporary alternative material for architectural products and surfaces. It may not be the first material that springs to mind when thinking of a work surface but it is durable and fairly inexpensive to use.
Polished concrete products can be created in a variety of colours if you do not wish to retain its natural colour, e.g. greys, blues, greens, yellows and reds. Surfaces can be ground to expose decorative aggregate or have variable degrees of grinding for a variety of finishes.

You can make or design your work surfaces or flooring to your own specifications not only in terms of colour schemes but also by adding such items as stones, gems, buttons, fossils, glass or metal flecks to the finish making the finished item a talking or focal point.   All products need to be treated with both sealer and wax to assist in cleaning and maintenance.  Products are slip resistant, durable and fairly low maintenance making it an ideal material for use outside.

The penetrative sealer used on these products is designed to allow the concrete to breathe. The polish that is subsequently applied provides waterproof properties. After sealing and polishing the concrete, it remains waterproofed providing the surface remains undamaged. It is recommended re-applying the sealer and waxing periodically depending on weather conditions and how often the surface is used.

For budding DIY enthusiasts, it is possible to make your own polished concrete product and there are many websites offering guidance on how to do this.

Preparation

                                  
 Alternatively for those who prefer there are many specialist companies who offer these services together with additional items e.g. sinks and draining boards to match.

How to look after a polished concrete countertop or floor

Concrete, like any natural stone or wooden countertop, requires looking after. Whilst any reputable company will provide you with a fully sealed and waxed item that is resistant to staining, it is strongly recommended that any wine or acid based liquids are wiped off the surface as soon as possible. It is also important not to clean the surface with aggressive cleaning products. 

How to clean a polished concrete countertop or floor

It is recommend that you use a non-bleach based cleaning product with warm soapy water. Do not use solvents or corrosive cleaners and avoid abrasive products or pads as they could cause damage to the sealer. A small amount of diluted bleach will remove any stubborn stains but it is then advised to re-apply sealant to this area to prevent damage.

How to prevent a polished concrete countertop or floor surface from staining

It is important that any food or drink spillages are cleaned from the surface and not left for long periods. There may be some surface marking or discolouration if the spillage is oil or acid based and not removed as soon as possible. If you re-applying the sealant or specialised polish regularly will also help prevent staining and help to keep your product looking its best. Specialist companies can provide advice the polish you need to best protect your polished concrete surfaces. 

How to remove stains if they occur

Specialist companies can advise on stain removal. If staining is very bad and if necessary concrete can be stripped back to the bare material then cleaned, re-polished, sealed and waxed.

So if you want an unusual, bespoke look to your outside patio kitchen get planning a polished concrete look!

Dee Lynston