Restoring original shine to terrazzo floors in a high-traffic lobby.
Alongside contract janitorial services, UCS is a trusted provider of restorative services, including natural stone restoration. Recently, UCS refreshed the terrazzo floors in a high-traffic condominium lobby in Grand Rapids, which had worn down over multiple seasons of heavy foot traffic. After leveling the surface, UCS restored the floors to their original shine.
Grand Rapids
5,000 Square Feet
4 Specialty Cleaners
1 Supervisor
Stone restoration typically involves removing lippage, leveling the surface, honing, removing etches, diamond polishing, and applying protective treatments like densifiers, impregnators, color enhancers, and various sealers for different stone types. We have extensive experience in restoring and maintaining terrazzo, marble, granite, limestone, concrete, slate, sandstone, and travertine surfaces, and we were excited to bring this particular surface back to its original beauty.
High-traffic lobby of a high-rise condominium that weathers all four seasons.
This terrazzo floor wasn’t just restored; it was transformed beyond its original state. UCS corrected and polished it to a level of smoothness and shine it never had before. Originally, the floor was finished at a rougher 400-grit hone, likely per the specifications, and topped with an acrylic floor finish. While this approach provides a temporary shine and protection, it demands ongoing maintenance, including annual stripping and reapplication; a costly and labor-intensive process.
Unlike floor coatings, polished stone floors offer a superior alternative. They provide a sleek, highly durable finish with significantly lower maintenance needs, enhanced resistance to wear, and reduced porosity. Scratches or damage on a polished floor can be spot-repaired and seamlessly blended, unlike waxed floors that require full re-coating.
During this project, UCS discovered surface imperfections hidden beneath the acrylic finish. After consulting with the client, we proceeded with additional grinding to remove these flaws, ensuring an immaculate, level surface.
Grinding & Honing
We began by carefully leveling the surface to remove blemishes. After testing various diamond abrasives, we selected the best combination for this terrazzo floor, finishing with a precise grind to achieve a smooth foundation. We then performed a three-step honing and polishing process using 3M’s Diamond Trizact system, which eliminated any remaining fine scratches and created a sleek satin finish.
Polishing
To achieve a glass-like shine, we aimed for a high Distinction of Image (DOI), reflecting clear, sharp reflections. Using a 3000-grit diamond pad with a high-speed burnisher, we achieved this pristine, reflective finish, surpassing typical polishing standards.
Protection & Final Finish
For lasting protection, we applied 3M Stone Floor Protector, which densifies, enhances gloss, and guards against stains. After curing, we polished again and applied a second coat for additional durability. The result is a stunning, resilient lobby floor that residents will enjoy for years.
