What Are Polished Concrete Floors?
Polished Concrete Floors are gradually getting popular in Christchurch due to their aesthetic appeal, longevity, low-maintenance nature and environmental benefits. These floors are suitable for commercial, residential and industrial spaces alike.
The floors are created by initially removing the top layer of the concrete through grinding and honing. For this process, builders use industrial-grade machinery and diamond abrasives. The surface is then polished to achieve a smooth, reflective, and sealed finish.
Polishing can also include exposed aggregate for a terrazzo-like finish, stains or dyes to add colour, and gloss level options such as matte, satin, or high-gloss.
The Pros of Polished Concrete Floors
Durability & Strength: Polished Concrete Floors in Christchurch are extremely durable and can survive for decades without fading or getting damaged. Their strength and toughness makes them ideal for garages, warehouses, showrooms, and kitchens where high foot-traffic is observed.
Low Maintenance: Once sealed and polished, these floors do not require any waxing or refinishing. They are resistant to spills and stains and are easily cleanable using just water and a mop, making them ideal for commercial spaces or busy households.
Sleek, Modern Looks: Polished Concrete Floors offer a minimalistic, clean and sleek look that complements modern architectural style. They can be customised with patterns, tints of various colours, and exposed stones to enhance their appearance and reflective quality.
Cost-Effective in the Long Run: While the initial cost may be higher, polished concrete makes financial sense over time. Fewer repairs, no coatings or replacements, and lower cleaning costs deliver long-term savings.
Eco-Friendly: Polished concrete is environmentally sustainable because it uses the existing concrete slab without requiring extra new materials. Its glossy surface improves light reflectivity, reducing artificial lighting needs. Water-based sealers can make it VOC-free, protecting air quality.
Allergy-Friendly: Unlike carpets, polished concrete floors do not trap allergens such as pollen and dust. This makes them a great choice for families, commercial buildings, and health-care facilities.
The Cons of Polished Concrete Floors
Rigid Surface: Concrete provides a hard, solid ground that can cause discomfort for people who stand for long periods of time. It is also unforgiving when children, elderly people, or fragile objects fall on it.
Cold Underfoot: Polished Concrete Floors can be uncomfortable during Christchurch winters. Since concrete does not retain heat like carpet or tiles, these floors will feel chilly unless combined with underfloor heating.
Cracks May Appear: While concrete floors require minimal maintenance, cracks can appear over time as concrete naturally shrinks and expands. Although most cracks are minor and cosmetic, they can still affect the look of the floor.
Requires Professional Installation: These floors require specialised grinding equipment and professional-grade sealing, making DIY installation unsuitable. Hiring an experienced flooring contractor is essential to avoid poor finishes.
Cost of Polished Concrete Floors in Christchurch
The cost to set up polished concrete floors depends on the size and shape of the floor, the type of finish and level of gloss, the degree of aggregate exposure, and how much preparation work is required.
Basic polish (grind & seal): $60 to $80 per square metre.
Medium exposure finish: $80 to $110 per square metre.
Full stone exposure: $100 to $140+ per square metre.
Quotes should include the cost of sealing, edge detailing, and polishing. Always ask for samples or images of past jobs before committing.
Tip: Prices quoted per square metre rarely include GST. Always confirm whether your quote is inclusive or exclusive before signing off.
Which Areas Are Ideal for Polished Concrete Floors?
Residential: Open-plan living spaces, kitchens and bathrooms, entryways and hallways, and internal garages are all ideal candidates for polished concrete.
Commercial: Retail showrooms, office lobbies, hair salons, and hospitality venues benefit greatly from the durability and aesthetic of polished floors.
Industrial: Warehouses, workshops, and distribution centres rely on polished concrete for its ability to withstand heavy equipment and consistent high-volume traffic.
Care & Maintenance Tips for Polished Concrete Floors
Gently mop or sweep daily to prevent grit build-up that can scratch the surface.
Wet mop on a weekly basis using a pH-neutral cleaner.
Avoid harsh chemicals as they can strip away the protective sealer and reduce shine.
Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to reduce wear.
Reseal every 2 to 5 years depending on the level of foot traffic.
How to Choose the Right Contractor in Christchurch
When hiring a professional contractor to install Polished Concrete Floors in Christchurch, always ask for certification and insurance.
Check Google reviews or local referrals. Request a detailed breakdown of the services provided and ask to view images of previous concrete flooring projects before committing.
