Ramarama Full House Polish

Full grind and polish throughout the entire house tranforms what was once and old tired carpet into a spectacle show stopping centre piece for the house.

Spacious interior featuring a polished concrete floor with a reflective high gloss finish.
Graphic design of a grid that resembles grids of polished concrete
Client

The Oliver Family

Location

Ramarama

Surface Area

400m2

Date

November 2023

The Challenge

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Franklin, this home underwent a transformative renovation to bring it into the modern era. Originally constructed with concrete in 1990, the passage of time had left its mark, resulting in large cracks that concerned the new owner. A comprehensive plan was devised, culminating in a decision to pursue a full grind of the concrete surfaces. This approach allowed us to expertly patch and camouflage the cracks and imperfections, seamlessly blending them into the revitalized flooring. The owners opted for a high-gloss sheen to juxtapose against the rustic charm of the older wooden beams and slate granite feature walls, creating a striking visual contrast. Every area of concrete in the house received meticulous attention to detail during the grinding and polishing process, ensuring a flawless finish. The result was a beautifully refreshed home that exceeded the owner's expectations, a testament to our dedication to quality craftsmanship.

Job Process

What we did

Utilizing a deep grind technique, we meticulously removed approximately 5mm from the top surface of the concrete, exposing the aggregate and ensuring a level substrate. This process not only rejuvenated the appearance of the concrete but also prepared it for further enhancements. Prior to polishing, we addressed any damage and large-scale cracks, employing expert patching techniques to seamlessly blend these imperfections into the concrete. Our meticulous grouting process ensured a smooth, uniform surface. Finally, we polished the concrete up to a high gloss 3000 grit finish, creating a durable, visually stunning floor that exceeded our client's expectations.

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.
Deep grind polished concrete revealing extensive aggregate mix.

Deep Grind

A deep grind in concrete grinding typically refers to removing a significant amount of material from the surface, usually around 3 to 5 millimeters or more. This process is used to expose aggregate or remove deep stains, resulting in a more textured and visually striking appearance.
High gloss polished concrete floor with reflective sheen.

High Gloss Polish

A high gloss polish in concrete polishing is a finish that achieves a highly reflective surface, similar to that of a mirror. This finish is achieved through the use of fine diamond abrasives and polishing pads, which gradually refine the concrete surface to a very smooth and glossy appearance.
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.