Tech Talk

How To Burnish Concrete Surfaces – The Integra Method

1. Concrete Placement & Finishing

  • Mix Design: Use a minimum 32 MPA concrete mix for strength and density.
  • Initial Finishing: Use a bull float immediately after screeding.
  • Power Trowelling: Perform multiple steel trowel passes using a power trowel to develop the paste and close the surface.
  • Tip: The tighter and smoother the finish, the better the burnish will look.

2. Apply DEEPCURE Curing Agent

  • Timing: Apply after final trowel finishing when the surface can be walked on without leaving marks.
  • Method: Use a low-pressure sprayer to apply DEEPCURE evenly across the surface.
  • Benefit: DEEPCURE penetrates deeply, locking in moisture without leaving a surface film, allowing densifier and sealer to bond properly later.

3. Allow Proper Curing Time

  • Minimum: Let the concrete cure for at least 7 days before applying densifier or burnishing.
  • Care: Keep surface protected from stains, dirt, and damage during curing.

4. Apply DensaCURE Lithium Densifier

  • Preparation: Clean the surface. Do not acid wash.
  • Application: Spray DensaCURE evenly, ensuring full surface coverage. Keep damp for 15–20 minutes, then allow to fully dry.
  • Effect: Reacts with the concrete to form a harder, denser surface, ideal for polishing or burnishing.

5. Burnishing Process

  • Timing: Wait 24 hours after DensaCURE application before burnishing.
  • Equipment: Use a high-speed burnisher (1500+ RPM) with resin or diamond-impregnated pads.
  • Pad Sequence: 800-grit → 1500-grit → 3000-grit (or finer, depending on desired finish).
  • Technique: Burnish in overlapping passes. Keep the surface dry and clean throughout.

6. Apply TOPSEAL for Final Protection

  • Purpose: TOPSEAL provides long-term resistance to moisture, stains, and oils without affecting surface gloss.
  • Timing: Apply only after final burnishing and once the surface is cool and dry.
  • Application: Use a microfibre applicator or low-pressure sprayer. Apply in thin, even coats. Avoid puddling.
  • Dry Time: Touch-dry in 30 minutes. Ready for light foot traffic in a few hours.

✅ Final Outcome

  • Tightly finished, dense and dust-proofed slab
  • Natural sheen enhanced by burnishing
  • Zero membrane removal required
  • Fast application, minimal downtime
  • Enhanced long-term durability and easy maintenance