Polished concrete bathroom: 5 mistakes to avoid - Côté Maison
Polished concrete offers the bathroom a contemporary style in a wide choice of colors and finishes. But, how can you guarantee the durability of this floor covering and avoid disappointment? It is better to rhyme love with lucidity...
Polished concrete is one of the big trends of the moment. It creates a modern atmosphere in the bathroom and offers beautiful uniform surfaces, very current. However, to obtain a fully satisfactory and lasting result, it is better to master the subject well and avoid errors of appreciation. Here are 5 not to commit.
>> See also >> Polished concrete in decoration: for or against?
Mistake n°1: believing that waxed concrete resists stains
Waxed concrete, contrary to its name, no longer really contains wax, except for the wall parts. Especially since wax does not protect against stains. So imagine what it could look like in a bathroom!
Concrete, which is naturally porous, must be covered with a "pore filler" product, then with a surface protection (resin or varnish). Prefer the quality of the components (pay attention to the first prices), if you want a lasting result. It is necessary to count up to 45 euros HT per m2 for a bathroom (complete system of major manufacturers excluding installation: primer + concrete + protection). And, according to Cyril Claire (iBéton), the finished price laid varies between 80 euros and 100 euros excluding tax per m2.
This surface protector avoids stains (provided it does not stagnate), and is resistant to most detergents, except acids (such as powerful anti-limestones). So avoid letting scale accumulate on waxed concrete in the bathroom, otherwise the protective varnish will not last long against powerful anti-limescale products associated with it!
Finally, let's address the problem of manicure: avoid, if possible, using nail polish remover products in your bathroom. Because if you reverse the bottle and forget to wipe: the varnish of your waxed concrete may not resist.
>> To read also >> Waxed concrete: which color to choose?
Mistake n°2: put waxed concrete everywhere in your bathroom
Polished concrete can be placed almost anywhere in your bathroom: wall, floor, sink, shower tray, worktop and even door! But it is not necessarily the same product.
The thickness of waxed concrete varies according to the support (from 0.7 mm for a decorative wall, to 2 mm for a shower, for example). Also seek advice from specialists to find out what the best protection solution is, depending on its use (shower, work surface, floor).
Also reason a bit like a marble surface: it's beautiful and solid, but with water, it slips. Some manufacturers (eg Mercadier) have additives to put in the last coat of varnish. They provide an "anti-slip" effect to your waxed concrete. But nothing beats a good floor mat to prevent falls in your bathroom.
If you opt for a rougher waxed concrete in the shower, think about maintenance (dirt and limestone may become more encrusted). It will be necessary to avoid products that are too acidic (therefore powerful anti-limestone), or else accept to see some surface defects appear over time (scratches, or change in appearance).
>> Read also >> Chic, waxed concrete effect bathrooms for inspiration!
Mistake n°3: trying to save money on the quality of waxed concrete
Take a product that has already proven itself and whose components are of recognized quality: therefore rarely the cheapest! A varnish for waxed concrete can thus cost between 2 and 10 euros per m2.
A good handyman can perfectly lay waxed concrete in a bathroom, provided he is methodical and meticulous. This remark also applies to a craftsman from elsewhere... So if you go through a company, ask to visit a few bathroom construction sites to get an idea of its know-how.
In all cases, follow the instructions: each brand of waxed concrete has its specificities. Do not neglect any step: in particular the drying time. Use the right tools. Do not try to save on quantities: if you cover 8 m2 of bathroom floor instead of the 5 m2 indicated on the packaging, expect problems!
Mistake n°4: laying waxed concrete on the floor of your bathroom without studying the existing surface
Waxed concrete is installed in one piece, throughout the bathroom. You must not stop on the way and the support must be without cracks. Unlike a carpet that hides imperfections, waxed concrete perfectly matches its support. If the support is cracked, surface defects will quickly appear. Will you accept them?
Also pay attention to the thickness of the waxed concrete. The laying of waxed concrete must not prevent the air from circulating under the bathroom door (allow between 3 and 4 mm).
>> To read also >> Which floor to choose in the bathroom?
Mistake n°5: laying waxed concrete without planning for future modifications
Polished concrete is a favorite choice that requires a minimum of anticipation, however. Who tells you that tomorrow, you won't want to change everything? And if you sell your property: will the buyer have the same tastes as you?
For example, always leave a space of at least 0.5 cm below the door on the floor, in order to be able to make any changes in the future. Unless you plan the door...
