At DS Grinding, we believe that to create the best concrete finish for any project, you need to have a process that is consistent and adaptable to each application. Since 2011, we have done just that and established our work as the benchmark for consistent quality in the Perth region.
Our team approaches every job with the mindset that no two homes are the same, and each project will require various levels of communication, skill and time. This is why one of the most important differences in our process, is the standards that we set and communicate with those involved in the project. Clients, builders, and concreters are consulted with and made aware of the standards needed to create an optimal finish.
By working with all trades involved, we can ensure that the quality of the application is precise, which then allows our team to deliver a final product that is beyond expectation.
Our Process
Step 1 - Quote and Consultation
Before we even get started, you need to make sure that we’re the right fit for your project. We offer a free quote and consult for all potential customers, so that we can understand your project requirements, and give you the best possible price. By having open communication across the project, our team can work to make sure that we are delivering exactly what the client has asked for and doing so in an efficient timeline.
Step 2 - Meet your Builder and Concreter
Deciding to use us as your concrete polishing specialists, means you get a hands-on team from sign off. Once hired for your project, our specialists will look to meet with your builder and your concrete contractor to discuss the scope and timeline of the project.
Step 3 - Concrete Pouring
These recommendations are to ensure that our team can deliver an optimal finish to the surface:
Step 4 - Pre-Grind and Densify Concrete
After the concrete has cured for 12-21 days (this depends on the project), our team will come in to do the first grind and densifier. Depending on the exposure level you decide on, our team will either perform a light grind (for burnished, and architectural/Industrial styles) or a heavy grind (for full exposed aggregate). This is done so that we can obtain control of the floor, and increase the overall flatness.
Once the initial grind is completed, we apply a densifier to the concrete surface. The densifier strengthens the concrete surface, making it up to 500x stronger than other concrete surfaces.
We then remove any residue from the densifier, followed by the application of protective grouting. From here, we step away from the project while your builder continues with project construction. About 6 weeks from lock up, your builder will contact us to book in the final polishing stage.
Step 5 - Final Polishing (For Internal Polished Concrete)
The final stage begins with another light grind of the floor, to remove the protective grout placed initially. Once this has been removed, we supply and apply a second densifier application to the concrete.
From here our team begins the polishing process. Depending on the finish you are after it can take up to three different stages to complete:
- Polish Stage One- Matte Finish- Done with a low grit resin polishing
- Polish Stage Two- Satin Finish- Completed with a medium grit resin polishing
- Polish Stage Three- High Gloss Finish- Finished with a high grit resin polishing pad.
Once polishing has been completed, a penetrative sealer is applied to the floor to make your new floors stain resistant.
Step 6 - Grind and Seal (For External Honed Concrete)
The same process as final polishing occurs, but rather than the use of polishing pads to create a glossy look to the concrete, penetrative sealers are added to either give it a more natural or bright look.
Step 7 - Clean Site
A final removal of any residue from the sealers, and a clean-up of the area is conducted.
Step 8 - Follow Up
Want to know more about our process, or arrange a free quote with our team?