Concrete Prep
Concrete prep, short for concrete preparation, refers to the process of preparing a concrete surface before applying coatings, overlays, stains, or other finishes. Proper preparation is crucial for ensuring adhesion and a long-lasting finish.
What is Concrete Prep?
Preparing concrete by grinding involves the meticulous removal of various substances such as old glue, tile grout, epoxy paint, and other coatings that may have accumulated over time. Additionally, grinding is effective in addressing rain damage and uneven surfaces, stripping them back to a clean canvas. This process not only restores the concrete to its original state but also provides a smooth, uniform surface that serves as an ideal foundation for further treatments such as polishing or sealing. Our expert team employs advanced techniques and equipment to ensure that your concrete is properly prepared for the next phase, resulting in a flawless finish that enhances the overall aesthetics and durability of your space.
Types of Grind
- Full aggregate exposure, where the concrete is ground down to reveal the aggregate within the mix, creating a textured, terrazzo-like finish.
- Partial aggregate exposure, where the grinding reveals some of the aggregate, providing a balanced look between the concrete and the exposed aggregate.
- Salt and pepper finish, where only a minimal amount of grinding is done to remove surface blemishes, resulting in a subtle, lightly polished appearance.
Cream or natural polish in concrete polishing refers to a smooth, slightly glossy finish achieved by refining the surface with fine grit diamond abrasives. No grinding is done in this process
Types of Polish
A polished concrete floor can exhibit a range of sheen levels, from matte to high gloss, depending on the desired aesthetic and functional requirements. A matte finish provides a subtle, understated look that is smooth to the touch and has a low level of light reflectivity. In contrast, a high-gloss finish offers a reflective, mirror-like surface that enhances the brightness of the space and creates a more luxurious appearance. Between these extremes, various levels of sheen can be achieved, allowing for a customized finish that suits the specific design goals of the project.
Take a look at our recent projects
Here customers can view some of our recent projects by visiting our website's gallery or portfolio section. Here, you can browse through images showcasing the quality and variety of work we've completed, gaining inspiration and insight into the possibilities for your own projects.
Frequently asked questions
Still got questions? Find quick answers to common questions about our polished concrete services.
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.
Maintaining polished concrete is relatively easy. Regular cleaning with a neutral pH cleaner and occasional resealing can help keep the surface looking its best.
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.
The cost of polished concrete can vary depending on factors such as the size of the area, the level of polishing desired, and the condition of the existing concrete. In general, polished concrete can cost anywhere from $40-$120 per m2.
We utilize cutting-edge dust extraction technology, employing large industrial vacuums for our operations. While grinding concrete cannot be entirely dust-free, our systems are designed to capture the majority of dust particles, channeling them into dust bags for containment.
For projects requiring heavier aggregate exposure, we recommend grinding the concrete slab after it has been poured and allowed to cure for at least 21 days. This should ideally be done before the construction of frames begins.
For light to medium grinds and polishing, we suggest timing the process for when the house is weatherproof, typically just before or just after the gib installation.
After our polishing process is completed, it is crucial to protect the floor to prevent damage.
Polished concrete floors are seamless and do not harbor dust, allergens, or mold, which can improve indoor air quality and make it easier to maintain a healthy environment.
Unlike carpeting, which can trap dust and allergens, polished concrete floors are easy to clean and do not require harsh chemicals or cleaners.
Ready to polish your concrete?
Get a quote today.
We strive to provide the most cost-effective polished concrete solutions in New Zealand. Our commitment is to beat any competitor's quote by 10%, provided that the quote is for a full mechanically polished concrete floor.
