BGSB’s experience and signature process includes a floor sampling step to demonstrate what finish is achievable when working with aged concrete flooring. Aged concrete can hold hidden character but also involve several difficulties. The first is the durability of aged concrete. There may be areas that are faulty or starting to show the signs of future failure.
The second is color and consistency. In most cases aged concrete requires extensive grinding to remove pits and holes from the surface. This exposes the aggregates within the concrete. The images here illustrate the result of polishing concrete that is well over 40 years old. In the first case, there were no faults in this concrete floor However , in the second case, the consistency of size and color of the exposed aggregates were not in balance or harmony. Obviously, this can be a feature. In another project a client may prefer the application of a toppings product to achieve consistency. The final issue with aged concrete is the possibility of any new concrete flooring. As you can see the older the concrete, the more features. These fascinating rocks, known as riverbed rocks, were used in the early days of concreting. Riverbed and other colored rocks are not used today and require a custom specification. When planning to pour a new floor adjacent to aged concrete, BGSB recommends their signature process that explores the potential of matching new and old. It is critical to take this step early to allow time for BGSB to scope-out potential matching finishes.
Solution For aged concrete: BGSB’s signature process can ensure you get the surface, color and features you seek. Working with a concrete specialist, such as BGSB’s Project Manager, will help to achieve your expectations.
