Green Building Trends: LEED Points with Polished Concrete Flooring

Modern architects and developers constantly seek sustainable solutions to meet both performance and environmental standards. One smart choice that supports both is – polished concrete flooring that comes with LEED certification. This innovative flooring option not only enhances the appearance of a space but also plays a valuable role in meeting green building goals.

Let’s dig deep into this blog to discover the evolving green building trends and how a trusted flooring contractor plays a pivotal role here. 

About LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized certification for green construction set by the US Green Building Council. It promotes sustainable building practices by evaluating projects across key areas such as energy efficiency, material selection, water usage, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design. The more sustainable features a construction includes, the higher the LEED rating or points. 

All awarded points correspond to a level of LEED certification: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

How Polished Concrete Supports LEED Points

Polished concrete flooring isn’t just strong and stylish; it also helps green constructions earn the points by supporting sustainable goals. Here’s how!

1.Reusing existing materials: Polished concrete flooring installation process involves enhancing the existing concrete slab. It reduces the need for new flooring materials or additives. This reuse supports the Materials and Resources category of LEED, thereby minimizing construction waste.

2. Improves energy efficiency: A well-polished concrete floor is often known for its high reflectivity. It is proven to increase the effectiveness of natural and artificial light, reducing the need for extra lighting. While this characteristic lowers energy consumption, it supports Energy and Atmosphere credits. This adds another valuable point toward your certification.

3. Reduces VOC emissions: Unlike other floor coatings, polished concrete requires no harsh adhesives or coatings that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This eliminates environmental impact and improves indoor air quality, supporting the Indoor Environmental Quality aspect. 

4. Contributes to thermal comfort: Do you know concrete floors have natural thermal mass properties? It implies that these surfaces can easily absorb, store, and slowly release heat. As a result, it regulates indoor temperatures, reducing the reliance on HVAC systems. While supporting energy optimization, these floors earn high LEED rating.

5. Durable and long-lasting: Polished concrete floors require minimal replacement or repairs as they come with good strength and longevity. Such a longer product lifecycle contributes to sustainability, thereby reducing overall environmental impact. 

Added Benefits of Polished Concrete Flooring Installation

The highly reflective concrete floors are not just confined to the five pre-mentioned features. There is much more to add to their benefits.

• Low maintenance: If you are looking for floors that are easy to clean and maintain, this concrete flooring can stand out as a premier option. Neither does it require any harsh chemicals for cleaning, nor does it require waxing. Regular dusting and occasional damp mopping are usually enough to keep them looking great.

• Aesthetically-appealing: These floors appear in a smooth glossy finish, creating a sleek modern look that can be customized with different colors, patterns, or finishes.

• Cost-effective: Since these polished floors use the existing substrate and require minimal maintenance, they help you save on long-term flooring costs. Whether on installation or upkeep, you don’t need to spend more for these floors.

• Flexibility: Concrete polishing makes a perfect fit in various settings – offices, retail stores, homes, or warehouses. It can be styled in different ways to suit the function and look of any space.

Final Thoughts

Polished concrete flooring is more than just a design trend! It’s a sustainable, cost-effective, and most appropriate flooring solution for modern green buildings seeking high durability and long-lasting performance. 

So, are you looking to upgrade your commercial place with polished concrete? Connect with our team and make sure it aligns with your LEED goals. 

SEALWELL INC

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