Our polished concrete process
Learn how we take a plain canvas and turn it into a polished work of art.
Getting started
Polished concrete begins with careful planning and preparation even before arriving at the site. Here's a brief overview of the process: list
- Assessment: We start by assessing the project requirements, including the type of concrete, the desired finish, and any specific challenges or considerations unique to the site.
- Planning: Based on the assessment, we develop a detailed plan that outlines the steps involved in the polishing process, including the equipment needed, the timeline, and any special techniques or considerations.
- Material Selection: We select the appropriate tools, abrasives, and chemicals for the job, ensuring that they are suitable for the specific type of concrete and finish desired.
- Logistics: We coordinate logistics such as equipment delivery, site access, and any other factors that may impact the execution of the project.
- Communication: We maintain clear and open communication with the client to ensure that their expectations are understood and met throughout the project. By carefully planning and preparing for the job before arriving at the site, we can ensure that the polishing process is carried out efficiently and effectively, resulting in a high-quality finished product that meets or exceeds the client's expectations.
How does it work?
Preparation
- Clear the area of any obstacles and debris.
- Repair any pre-existing cracks or imperfections in the concrete surface.
Grinding
- Use a concrete grinder with coarse diamond segments to remove any existing coatings, adhesives, or rough spots on the surface.
- Start with a lower grit diamond grinding pad (typically 30-40 grit) to aggressively grind down the surface.
- Move to a 50/60 grit to refine the surface whilst applying a polymer slurry coat in front of the machine filling air pockets and hairline cracks.
- Repeat process with a finer 80 grit
- Repeat once more with a very fine 160 grit. Each pass should remove the scratches from the previous grit.
Apply potassium densifying concrete hardener
- Before polishing apply a potassium concrete hardener to densify the concrete and let cure.
Polishing
- After grinding, switch to resin-bonded diamond polishing pads, starting with a 50 grit.
- Densify with potassium concrete hardener and polish with a 100 grit.
- Repeat and polish with a 200 grit. (This is when the floor is at a Matte level of sheen).
- Apply a coat of lithium concrete densifier and polish with a 400 grit. (This is when the floor is at a Semi Gloss level of sheen).
- If requested polish over floor with an 800 grit. (This is when the floor is at a Gloss level of sheen).
- If requested polish floor with a 1500 grit and then a 3000. (This is when the floor is at its highest gloss level.
Cleaning before sealing
- From here we remove all of the machinery used to grind and polish the concrete floor.
- Vacuum surrounding areas and vacuum the transition between wall and floor.
- Then with a microfiber mop remove standing dust until mop is clean.
Sealing
- Apply a concrete sealer to protect the polished concrete surface from stains, water damage and wear.
- Choose a sealer appropriate for the floor.
Repeat 2-3 times depending on the chosen sealer. - Let dry and cure using fans and ventilation.
Buffing
- Once the sealer has dried and cured buff top layer of sealer off with a burnisher and polishing pad to remove the excess sealer.
Disclaimer
Keep in mind that the specific equipment and materials needed may vary depending on the size of the project, the condition of the concrete, and the desired level of polish. Additionally, it's essential to follow safety precautions when working with concrete grinders and polishers, including wearing appropriate protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation in the work area. If you're unsure about any step of the process, it's best to consult with professionals or seek guidance from experts in concrete polishing.
Frequently asked questions
Still got questions? Find quick answers to common questions about our polished concrete services.
Maintaining polished concrete is relatively easy. Regular cleaning with a neutral pH cleaner and occasional resealing can help keep the surface looking its best.
- None (Cream Finish): A cream finish may be more susceptible to wear and staining, as the surface is smoother and less textured. It may require more frequent maintenance to keep it looking its best.
- Partial Exposure: Partial exposure provides a good balance between aesthetics and durability. The exposed aggregate adds texture to the surface, which can help hide wear and tear over time.
- Full Exposure: Full exposure can enhance the durability of the floor, as the exposed aggregate acts as a wear surface. It can withstand heavy traffic and is less likely to show scratches or wear patterns.
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.
Polished concrete is a process that involves grinding and polishing a concrete surface to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. It is commonly used as a flooring option in both residential and commercial spaces.
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.
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.
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.
