"True diamond polishing is more than simply opening up the concrete and applying a topical sealer, there's more to it than that if you want to create a permanent flooring solution."

Equipment:

Electric – The availability of mobile power is essential for electric-powered equipment, and keeping that equipment running non-stop is critical to meeting deadlines and maintaining efficiency.  Diesel fuel (used to power diesel generators) poses an ever-present risk of degrading marine and terrestrial ecosystems through accidental spills.  Diesel generators also emit substantial quantities of carbon dioxide per unit of electricity. 

Propane – Green!  Highly attainable & clean burning resource; EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) & CARB (California Air Resources Board) approved for use indoors.

Tooling:

Listing the grits and specifying the equipment/tooling to be used ensures that an approved contractor will follow each step as specified.

Densifier(s):

For this project - Will there be heavy foot or heavy equipment traffic?  Is there a need to protect from salts that can etch the concrete? (Tracked onto concrete in areas where roads and/or sidewalks are salted in colder climates.)  Does the concrete need to remain ‘open’ to allow penetration of dye or protective treatment?  Is the project green and therefore requiring environmentally friendly products (water based vs. solvent based)?  Specify the certified applicator and product(s) to be used.  The product should also be specified so as not to pose a future risk upon removal if necessary.

Color:

Specify white concrete and a contractor who is highly skilled in the process.  OR, specify the process of selecting the translucent dye color to be used, the certified applicator, and the product to be used.

Final Protective Treatment:

For this project – Is there a need to protect polished concrete against aviation oils (airplane hangar) or food acids (retail/grocery, food service or residential)?  Specify the certified applicator and the product to be used.

Desired Sheen:

Specify the process of selecting the sheen (matte, satin, semi- or high-gloss).  One way is by listing a gloss meter reading.  Remember:  Variations in tooling means variations in results.  Listing the last grit to be used, may not result in the desired sheen.