Concrete floors: the unsung hero of modern construction. Whether you’re sprucing up a trendy café or upgrading your garage from “meh” to magnificent, the choice between polished concrete and epoxy flooring can make or break your project (and maybe your spirit if you choose poorly). But don’t worry—we’re here to help you make the right call without the concrete confusion.
At NZ Grinders, we’ve been elbow-deep in both finishes for years, and we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright slippery. So let’s break it down, shall we?
What Is Polished Concrete?
Polished concrete is like the James Bond of flooring—sleek, durable, and hard to beat. We take your humble concrete slab, grind it down, refine it through multiple grit levels (sometimes hundreds of them—yes, we’re overachievers), and then polish it to a shine that would make a mirror blush.
The Perks:
- Low maintenance – A quick mop and it’s good as new.
- Long lifespan – Think decades, not years.
- Aesthetic wow-factor – It reflects light beautifully and shows off natural stone.
- Eco-friendly – No coatings, no waste, just good ol’ concrete doing its thing.
It’s perfect for interiors like showrooms, cafes, offices, and homes that want a clean, modern look without being high-maintenance.
But is it right for everyone? Not quite.
What Is Epoxy Flooring?
Now, epoxy is a different beast. Think of it like armour for your concrete. It’s a resin-based coating we apply over the surface, which cures into a hard, glossy, chemical-resistant layer. It’s the go-to choice for people who like their floors to mean business.
Why People Love Epoxy:
- Customisable colours and flakes – Yes, you can go wild.
- Chemical and stain resistant – Ideal for garages, workshops, or messy businesses.
- Non-slip options – You can add grit to avoid any unexpected dance moves.
- Sealed surface – No dusting or porous issues.
Still, it’s not all rainbows and resin.
So… Which Floor Should You Choose?
Here’s where the plot thickens. Choosing between polished concrete and epoxy flooring depends on what you actually need your floor to do.
If you want…
| Scenario | Best Option |
|---|---|
| A low-maintenance, high-style home or retail floor | Polished Concrete |
| A heavy-duty workshop or garage | Epoxy Flooring |
| A surface to show off stone and texture | Polished Concrete |
| Something with colour, flair, or a vinyl flake party | Epoxy Flooring |
| Something that lasts for decades with minimal fuss | Polished Concrete |
| Oil spills, chemicals, or forklifts in the mix | Call us! |
Still undecided? Don’t worry—we get it. You can even mix and match in one project. (Yes, we’ve done that too.)
Why Choose NZ Grinders?
We’re not just floor nerds—we’re floor nerds with personality. At NZ Grinders, we’ve polished floors in high-end architecturally designed homes and epoxy-coated everything from dairy sheds to showrooms. We know what works, what doesn’t, and which option will leave you grinning every time you walk into the room.
If you’re still unsure which finish is right for you, swing by our showroom or let us visit your site. We’ve got sample panels, stories, and questionable jokes ready to go.
Let’s Make Your Concrete Sexy Again
Whether you’re Team Polish or Team Epoxy, you deserve a floor that fits your lifestyle, your aesthetic, and your budget. We’ll help you pick it, prep it, and perfect it.
📞 Give NZ Grinders a call today or flick us a message. Let’s talk floors—and maybe even polish up a few puns while we’re at it.
Glen 021-434-199, serving the North Island: or for South Island inquiries, reach out to Mike at 027-281-8815. You can also email us for a prompt response from our Sales Manager Ian.