McLeod Road, Te Atatu South
On old abused floor that needed stripping back to a clean canvas ready for a new tenent.
The Toy Shop
850m2
October 2024
The Challenge
For many years, this expansive commercial building served as a facility for the production of plastic bin bags. Over time, the concrete flooring endured significant wear and tear from the harsh chemicals and processes involved in the manufacturing operations. With a shift in market demand leading to the departure of the original tenants, the concrete was left in a deteriorated state. The new tenants sought our expertise to rejuvenate the flooring, preparing it for the application of a robust epoxy paint for their automotive garage, where vintage cars would be restored. Tasked with grinding an area exceeding 800 square meters, we meticulously worked the surface four times to achieve a balance between smoothness and adhesion for the paint. Despite the considerable scope, meticulous preparation, and utilization of appropriate equipment ensured completion in a mere 2.5 days, including the removal of over 2 tonnes of old concrete. Both the new tenants and the landlord were exceptionally pleased and impressed with the results of our work.
What we did
Commencing with a meticulous PCD (polycrystalline diamond) grind, our process is designed to effectively pulverize and remove stubborn substances such as glue, resins, and other contaminants from the surface of the concrete. This initial step ensures a clean, debris-free base for subsequent treatments. Following the PCD grind, we progressed to a coarse 30 grit diamond grind, refining the surface further to eliminate any remaining imperfections and prepare it for optimal bonding. Subsequently, a 50 grit grind was applied to enhance the surface's smoothness and uniformity. To complete the process, we finished with an 80 grit grind, which not only eliminated any residual grind marks but also ensured the concrete retained sufficient abrasion for the epoxy paint to adhere effectively. This meticulous approach results in a flawlessly prepared surface, ready to receive the desired coating, and guarantees a durable, long-lasting finish that meets our exacting standards.
Standard pump mix
PCD prep grind
PCD prep grind
Frequently asked questions
Still got questions? Find quick answers to common questions about our polished concrete services.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.