More retailers are choosing to replace vinyl composition tile (VCT) with polished concrete for its modern look, long-term cost savings and durability. A common misconception, however, is that converting to polished concrete requires shutting down the store. The truth is: with proper planning, VCT removal and concrete polishing can be done overnight while keeping the store open during regular hours.

This article outlines the key steps, challenges and benefits of converting VCT to polished concrete in an active retail environment.

Why VCT Removal in Retail Requires Special Consideration

Retail flooring projects often take place in occupied operational stores. Because shutting down operations is not always an option, work is typically done in phases overnight. With the right crew and equipment, about 1,000 to 1,500 square feet can be removed and prepped each night, allowing the store to reopen as usual the next morning.

What’s Hiding Beneath the Tile

While removing the VCT itself is usually straightforward, the real challenge lies beneath the surface. It’s not uncommon to uncover old adhesives, leveling agents, float material or even mastic and epoxy from previous installations. These materials require extra grinding and cleanup before polishing can start.

How to determine if your store can be converted? QuestMark specialists test your exact slab condition by removing tile from various areas before the project begins. In complex cases, a small section of your floor can be polished as a sample for review.

Step-by-Step: From VCT to Polished Concrete

Here’s an overview of how a typical VCT-to-concrete conversion is handled in a retail setting:

Planning and Pre-Assessment

• Identify areas with shelving, displays and other obstructions
• Discuss phasing, work hours and access requirements
• Inspect the slab by removing sample tiles and checking for adhesives or levelers

Protection Measures

• Use plastic barriers to protect merchandise and contain dust
• Communicate potential dust issues from ceiling rafters or surrounding areas

VCT Removal

• Remove kickplates and obstacles for equipment access
• Use ride-on scrapers to lift and break up the tile
• Remove and dispose of any adhesive residue when possible

Surface Preparation

• Grind the slab to remove remaining mastic or compounds
• Patch any holes and repair joints as needed

Polishing Process

• Grind and polish the surface in phases
• Apply dyes or color treatments if desired

Repeat Nightly

• Continue the process one section at a time until complete
• Ensure the store is fully prepared for normal operations the next day

Things to Consider

While polished concrete offers a clean, updated look, it’s important to have realistic expectations:

• The final finish will show natural variation in color and texture as it’s based on the existing slab
• Dyes are translucent and enhance the floor’s natural tone but do not create a uniform paint-like surface
• Some tight areas may be inaccessible to polishing equipment and may require alternative treatments

Dust Control and Safety

Effective dust control is achieved with grinders that include built-in dust extraction systems. Additionally, plastic barriers are typically used to protect nearby inventory, merchandise and to contain dust. In certain environments, wet grinding may be used to control airborne dust though it introduces a different challenge: slurry cleanup.

The Bottom Line: Keep the Store Open

One of the biggest advantages of this conversion process is that it can be completed without interrupting business operations. Nightly phases, clear communication and proper containment measures make it possible to transform your retail floor without disrupting shoppers.

Many retailers are still unaware that converting VCT to polished concrete is an option outside of new construction. With the right planning, it’s not only possible, it’s practical. Contact our team today to get started!