Kaukapakapa Floor Rescue

A poorly executed surface polish by another contractor left this North Auckland floor uneven and heavily coated in polyurethane. We re-ground and refined the slab to achieve a much cleaner polished concrete finish.

Rescued polished concrete floor with light aggregate exposure in Kaukapakapa
Graphic design of a grid that resembles grids of polished concrete
Location

Kaukapakapa

Surface Area

80m2

Date

May 2025

The Challenge

The slab had already been over-worked by a previous contractor, limiting how much additional grinding could be done. The heavy polyurethane coating had to be carefully removed without taking the concrete surface below its viable depth.

Job Process

What we did

We stripped the polyurethane and re-ground the floor using the 800-grit Hiperfloor system to a light aggregate exposure. Given the previous over-grinding, we took a conservative approach to preserve the slab's integrity while still achieving a clean, even finish.

Standard pump mix concrete surface with natural texture.

Standard pump mix

Standard pump mix in concrete grinding refers to a concrete mixture that is designed for ease of pumping and placement using concrete pumps. This mix typically has a specified design strength and consistency that allows it to be efficiently pumped to the desired location for grinding and other finishing processes. The aggregate is typically between 10-19mm and the cement is a standard light grey colour.
Light grind polished concrete floor with minimal aggregate exposure

Light Grind

A light grind removes less than 1.5 millimeters from the concrete surface, exposing minimal aggregate while smoothing and refining the slab. This approach preserves more of the original concrete colour and is ideal for newer slabs where a subtle, clean finish is preferred over heavy aggregate exposure.
Polished concrete with a semi-gloss finish reflecting indoor lighting.

Semi Gloss Finish

A semi-gloss sheen in polished concrete is a finish that offers a moderate level of shine, falling between a matte and a high-gloss finish. It provides a subtle, reflective surface that is less shiny than a high-gloss finish but more so than a matte finish.
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Still got questions? Find quick answers to common questions about our polished concrete services.

How do I prepare my home before concrete polishing begins?

For the best result, clear all furniture and belongings from the rooms being polished. If you are removing carpet yourself, you can also pull up the tack strips - this saves time on site. We handle all dust extraction and floor protection, but removing breakables and covering nearby surfaces helps keep things running smoothly. For new builds, polishing should happen after gib and plaster but before skirtings and cabinetry are installed.

Can I get a similar result on my floor?

Every concrete slab is unique. The final look depends on factors like the age of the slab, the aggregate mix used when it was poured, and the condition of the surface. Older slabs often reveal beautiful stone once ground back, while newer slabs tend to have a more uniform appearance. We assess your specific slab during a free site visit and can show you examples of similar floors we have completed. This gives you a realistic idea of what your floor will look like before any work begins.

What is the difference between honed and polished concrete?

Polished concrete is ground and refined to a high sheen using progressively finer diamond tooling, resulting in a glossy, reflective surface. Honed concrete follows the same grinding process but stops at a lower grit level, leaving a smooth, matte finish with little to no reflectivity. Honed is popular for residential interiors and bathrooms where a warmer, less industrial look is preferred. Both are durable and low-maintenance.

Do you offer free quotes?

Yes. We offer free site visits and quotes across Auckland. We prefer to see the floor in person before quoting - this lets us assess the concrete condition, recommend the right finish, and give you an accurate price with no surprises. Get in touch to book yours.

How long does polished concrete last compared to other flooring options?

Mechanically polished concrete can last 20+ years with good maintenance. Because there is no coating to peel or replace, it outlasts most alternatives. It will dull over time with regular use - similar to timber or tiles - but a periodic rebuff restores the finish.

Comparatively, some other flooring options have different lifespans:

  • Carpet: Typically lasts 5-15 years, depending on quality and maintenance.
  • Vinyl: Can last 10-20 years, but may need replacing sooner in high-traffic areas.
  • Hardwood: With proper care, hardwood floors can last 25 years or more.
  • Tile: Durable and can last 20 years or more, but may require regrouting or repairs over time.
  • Laminate: Generally lasts 10-20 years, depending on quality and wear.
How much does polished concrete cost?

The cost of polished concrete in Auckland depends on floor size, slab condition, and finish type. Most jobs fall between $60 and $130 per m2 + GST. Larger open areas (200m2+) can come in around $60 per m2, while detailed work in finished homes can reach $120-$130 per m2. We have a minimum charge of $2,250 + GST for small areas under 20m2. For a full breakdown by floor size and finish type, see our polished concrete pricing guide. Contact us for a free site assessment and accurate quote.

How long does it take to polish concrete?

The time it takes to polish concrete can vary depending on the size and complexity of the area, the level of polishing desired, and the condition of the concrete. In general, the process can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more.

Can any concrete be polished?

In general, most concrete can be polished. However, the quality of the final result can depend on factors such as the quality of the concrete mix, the level of aggregate exposure desired, and the condition of the existing concrete surface.

What are the benefits of polished concrete?

Some benefits of polished concrete include its durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. It is also environmentally friendly and can help improve indoor air quality.