When it comes to modern and versatile flooring options, there may be few possibilities as attractive as polished concrete. In stark contrast to the days when concrete flooring might have been largely reserved for industrial and other “workmanlike” settings, polished concrete is growing in popularity across Auckland’s homes and commercial spaces.
Here at Floor Masters, we are specialists in concrete floor polishing in Auckland. But what are some of the key things you ought to know about this type of flooring? Below, we outline the essentials.
What Is Polished Concrete?
Polished concrete is a form of flooring created by pouring a slab of concrete on the ground, followed by grinding and polishing it to achieve a smooth and glossy finish.
Various levels of sheen can be achieved from concrete grinding in Auckland, including matte, satin, and high gloss. So, this process lends itself to a broader range of aesthetics than you might expect.
Benefits Of Polished Concrete Floors
Below are some of the reasons why more and more people are considering the merits of polished concrete finishes in Auckland, such as those that Floor Masters can provide:
Durability And Longevity
Polished concrete’s formidable resistance to wear and tear makes it ideal for high-traffic areas.
Low Maintenance
This form of flooring is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep.
Aesthetic Appeal
With a variety of colours, patterns, and finishes available, you really can achieve the look that you desire for your concrete flooring.
Eco-Friendliness
Polished concrete floors are generally free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are organic molecules and volatile hydrocarbons that can be harmful by themselves or react with other gases to produce other air pollutants.
Energy efficiency is another hallmark of polished concrete flooring. Concrete has a highly efficient thermal mass, with the ability to store a large amount of heat when subjected to direct sunlight. What’s more, it reflects light well, which helps minimise the need for artificial lighting.
Applications Of Polished Concrete In Auckland
Whether you are a homeowner, an interior designer, an architect, a builder, or a commercial property owner, you might enquire about polished concrete in Auckland for any of a wide range of settings:
Residential
The durability, ease of maintenance, and visual and practical versatility of polished concrete flooring all contribute to its suitability for modern homes, apartments, and renovations.
Commercial
Polished concrete flooring being so resistant to damage, water, and chemicals – as well as heavy foot traffic – helps make it a logical choice for a business premises such as a retail store, office, or showroom. This type of flooring also requires minimal maintenance over time, which underscores its long-term cost-effectiveness.
Industrial
Relatively easy to clean, as well as strong enough to withstand heavy equipment, foot traffic, and spills, polished concrete flooring can make sense for a variety of warehouses, factories, and workshops in and around Auckland.
Polished Concrete Cost In Auckland
Here are the key things to know about the typical polished concrete costs in Auckland or elsewhere in NZ:
How Much Does It Cost To Polish Concrete Floors In NZ?
There isn’t a single answer to this question. But to give you a broad idea of the normal price range for concrete floor polishing, approximately $50 per square metre can be expected for a low-end “grind and seal” operation. This presumes no additional preparations or repairs are involved.
For a much more sophisticated polish, however, you could be paying up to $140 per square metre.
Is It Expensive To Polish Concrete?
A polished concrete floor is more affordable than you might expect, especially in relative terms when you consider its probable longevity.
Ultimately, though, various factors will influence how much your own next polished concrete floor costs. This will encompass such aspects as the existing floor condition, the finish that you desire, and the size of the intended project.
Comparing Polished Concrete To Other Flooring Options
As alluring, practical, and versatile as polished concrete is, it might not be the most suitable flooring option for the setting you have in mind:
Is Polished Concrete Cheaper Than Tiling?
No, polished concrete flooring tends to be more expensive than tiling in NZ. While you might end up paying between approximately $50 and $140 per square metre for a polished concrete floor, tiles are usually priced from around $50 to $70 per square metre.
However, you can expect especially high-quality tiles to cost more than that.
Which Is Cheaper, Epoxy Or Polished Concrete?
Epoxy entails spraying layers of resin onto existing flooring, and may cost you as little as around $30 to $35 per square metre for two coats. However, you might be paying somewhat more than this for thicker layers or decorative finishes.
So, depending on such factors as the size of the necessary flooring project and your needs from your next floor, you might not find that the costs of epoxy and polished concrete greatly differ from each other.
What Is A Cheaper Alternative To Polished Concrete?
Potentially lower-priced types of flooring that you may consider include stained concrete and vinyl flooring.
Choosing A Polished Concrete Contractor In Auckland
It is advisable to bear the following aspects in mind when you are comparing polished concrete contractors in Auckland:
Experience And Expertise
Selecting a genuinely qualified and experienced contractor will give you peace of mind about the quality, durability, and longevity of the finished flooring.
Portfolio And References
We would always encourage readers who are considering a particular contractor to review the given business’s past projects and seek out client testimonials.
Warranties And Guarantees
Obtaining a warranty on the workmanship of your polished concrete floor will enable you to rest easy in the knowledge you are protected.
Request a free consultation and quote from a specialist in polished concrete in Auckland, such as Floor Masters, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the price you receive.
The Abundant Appeal Of Polished Concrete In Auckland
The broad range of colours, patterns, and finishes available for polished or decorative concrete in Auckland, as well as the durability and relative ease of maintenance of these floors, means they could be an excellent choice for your next flooring project. Indeed, polished concrete flooring can work equally well across domestic, commercial, and industrial spaces alike.
Below are a few more of the most commonly asked questions about polished concrete flooring:
What Are The Downsides Of Polished Concrete Floors?
Polished concrete flooring will not be the best choice of flooring for every circumstance. It can be hard and cold underfoot, and if someone falls on it, they could suffer a nasty bump. For these reasons, you might consider laying down some high-quality rugs to offset such harshness.
How Long Will A Polished Concrete Floor Last?
If you arrange for the proper installation, sealing, and maintenance of your polished concrete floor, you can expect it to last for potentially a century or longer.
Does A Polished Concrete Floor Need To Be Sealed?
Yes, the porous nature of polished concrete flooring makes the application of an effective sealant essential for prolonging its lifespan.
