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Managing Cracks in Polished Concrete and Overlay Floors

The cover image is illustrative, not a documented Puur project.

A concrete appearance does not mean every floor has the same construction. Before discussing cracks, establish whether the proposal is a polished structural slab or a cementitious overlay such as Puur PSR.

Investigate the base first

Record existing cracks, joints and changes in level before choosing the finish. Ask the appropriate designer to investigate movement or other defects; covering a crack does not establish that its cause has been resolved.

Agree the joint layout

A continuous appearance does not remove the need for movement joints. The flooring and base designers should agree which joints continue through the finish, how thresholds are detailed and where the joints will be visible.

Coordinate heating and the programme

Heated floors need an agreed specification and commissioning record. Follow the relevant screed, heating and flooring instructions rather than applying a generic number of drying days or a universal temperature ramp.

Respond to changes in the floor

Photograph a new crack and contact the installer before filling or grinding it. A repair depends on its cause, movement and the installed system, and may remain visible. Avoid judging structural significance from crack width alone.

Discuss your project with Puur

Send plans, photographs of the existing base, intended use and any heating details. We can discuss the finish, samples and the information needed before agreeing a specification.

Ask Puur about your floor · View Puur PSR specification information

Frequently Asked Questions

Investigate the base first — what should I establish?

Record existing cracks, joints and changes in level before choosing the finish. Ask the appropriate designer to investigate movement or other defects; covering a crack does not establish that its cause has been resolved.

Agree the joint layout — what should I establish?

A continuous appearance does not remove the need for movement joints. The flooring and base designers should agree which joints continue through the finish, how thresholds are detailed and where the joints will be visible.

Coordinate heating and the programme — what should I establish?

Heated floors need an agreed specification and commissioning record. Follow the relevant screed, heating and flooring instructions rather than applying a generic number of drying days or a universal temperature ramp.

Respond to changes in the floor — what should I establish?

Photograph a new crack and contact the installer before filling or grinding it. A repair depends on its cause, movement and the installed system, and may remain visible. Avoid judging structural significance from crack width alone.