Surface Hardness Testing for Polished Concrete Quality Control

Polished concrete is a popular flooring option in commercial and industrial spaces. Its sleek appearance, durability, and minimal maintenance requirements make it perfect for environments with heavy foot traffic, machinery, and operational demands. 

However, without quality control, maintaining the effectiveness and efficiency of polished control flooring can be challenging. Hence, a need for surface hardness testing. This crucial step helps verify that the floor meets performance standards and client expectations. 

What is Surface Hardness Testing? Why it Matters?

Concrete surface hardness testing, as the name indicates, is a method used to determine the hardness of the existing surface. It evaluates the surface’s resistance to various forces such as abrasion, indentation, and impact. 

The level of hardness ensures the surface’s durability, wear resistance, and overall quality. Based on this assessment, engineers or contractors can make informed decisions regarding the choice of concrete and predict its longevity under different conditions.  

How to Measure the Hardness of the Concrete? 

Mohs Scale

One of the most accurate and cost-effective methods for evaluating surface hardness is the Mohs Hardness Test. Based on a scale from 1 to 10, it measures scratch resistance by determining whether a harder material can visibly scratch a softer one. Though this method is typically used for measuring the efficiency of minerals, rocks, and other hard materials, it has been adapted for testing the hardness of construction materials like polished concrete.

How the Mohs Test Works:

The Mohs scale consists of ten minerals ranked from 1 (the softest, talc) to 10 (the hardest, diamond). Practically, a specialized tool picks each mineral from the scale and uses it to scratch the concrete surface. If the tool leaves a mark, the surface is considered softer than the tool. However, if it won’t, the process is repeated. The hardness of the concrete is then considered to be just below the level of the pick that successfully scratched it.

Rebound Hammer 

Another method to measure the hardness of a surface is using Rebound Hammer. This is a non-destructive test that measures the elastic rebound of a spring-driven hammer that impacts the concrete surface.

For this test, an instrument called Schmidt’s hammer, also known as a sclerometer, is used. It provides an indirect indication of compressive strength and surface hardness, thereby determining the quality of polished surfaces. 

Factors to Evaluate the Quality of Polished Concrete

Measuring the quality of polished concrete involves assessing various aspects.

Gloss and clarity

Gloss is one of the most essential indicators that defines the quality of your concrete. Experts use a gloss meter to measure the gloss level, typically expressed in Gloss Units (GU). The higher the gloss value, the better the appearance. 

Clarity refers to the perfection of the surface. By measuring this aspect, experts can ensure the absence of visible imperfections such as scratches or blemishes. Of course, a high-quality polish defines excellent clarity. 

Flatness and smoothness

Unlike gloss and clarity which determines the aesthetic appeal of the surface, flatness and smoothness define its functionality and safety.

Flatness is typically measured using a straightedge or a laser level that is placed on the surface to check the gaps or unevenness. A flat concrete surface ensures flooring materials adhere correctly, minimizing the risk of cracks and defects. 

Quality Control Best Practices

Following the best practices can help you maintain the quality of polished concrete.

• Conduct hardness testing at multiple stages, including pre-polish, mid-process, and post-polish.
• Use densifiers properly, especially in high-traffic areas, to improve surface hardness.
• Maintain consistency in grinding and polishing to avoid soft spots or over-polishing.

Final Thoughts

Surface hardness testing is not just a technical need – it’s an essential aspect of delivering polished concrete flooring solution that stands up to the demands of the workspace. Integrating reliable testing methods into your quality control process can ensure the floor’s durability, safety, and appearance.

So, are you planning to upgrade your concrete surface? Sealwell never compromises with the quality of its flooring solution. Consult with our experts and get ready for an effective installation.

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