In the period between 2019 and 2024, the decorative concrete market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%. One of the factors driving this growth is the increasing demand for polished concrete both in residential and commercial buildings.
The increase in demand for polished concrete is primarily attributed to the beauty and elegance it adds to a building, as well as longevity. Also, polished concrete is slip-resistant and environmentally friendly.
For concrete to be considered polished, the grind must exceed the 400 grit level. This is achieved by using progressive grinding tools with metal bond diamond abrasives to polish the concrete. Usually, polished concrete is finished to the 800, 1,500, or 3,000 grit level. Afterward, dyes and stains are applied to increase its aesthetic appeal.
As demand increases, so will the opportunities for polished concrete contractors. However, to ensure that your enterprise is profitable, you must deliver high-quality work. In this article, you will find practical tips to help you streamline your concrete polishing system, thus earning you more profit per job.
Do a thorough inspection of the slab
There are several things to consider and account for when polishing concrete. Failure to do so will only lead to client dissatisfaction, which may force you to redo the work and eat into your profits.
Once the client explains to you what they would like, take your time and inspect the slab. This will help you understand what you are working with and how best to deliver the desired results. As a contractor, your primary objective should be producing exceptional results accompanied by the best service.
This is because referrals make up a considerable portion of business for contractors. Happy clients will be willing to recommend your services to other people.
Choose the right metal bond diamond abrasives
There are no shortcuts with metal bonds, chemicals, and resins you use for concrete polishing. Everything used for the job should be of high standards and able to perform at peak performance. If the metal bond diamond abrasives you use are not up for the task, it will take you longer and cost you more to finish a job.
Time is of the essence, but don’t rush
At times in the concrete polishing industry, jobs may be hard to come by. Therefore, you should make the most of the peak season and do as many jobs as possible. However, it is important to ensure that the speed at which you work does not compromise the quality of your work.
For instance, when you run a grinder too fast, torque tends to reduce and the grinder is unable to dig into the slab effectively. This means you will have to redo the work several times to even out the scratch pattern. As a result, you end up wasting the very thing you wish to save: time.
Try polishing dry
When it comes to polishing, you can do it when the slab is wet or dry. When the slab is wet, the moisture covers up imperfections. As such, you may want to do it when the slab is dry, since it makes it easier for you to inspect the scratch pattern.
However, there are some conditions and materials where the polishing process is easier when the slab is wet.
Inspect the scratch pattern
A concrete polishing system usually involves the use of different grits with each used finer than the previous one. Before proceeding to the next grit, the scratch pattern must be even to ensure your polish turns out evenly. If not, you will have to repeat the process.
What does it take to make your concrete crack repair service more profitable?
The purpose of starting a business is to generate profits and become sustainable. As any wise entrepreneur knows, profitability is not just about the number of clients you serve but also efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By following these tips and using the right metal bond diamond abrasives you will be able to achieve the latter two, which will better prepare you for handling more clients.