Polished Off WA Product Specific Information

The following information is an excerpt from Schedule 1 of the Services Agreement issued after engagement. Some numbered references below are included in the full document only and are determined by the specific project.

Mechanically Polished Concrete is manufactured onsite and as such potential variables affecting works are outlined upfront for transparency.

Mechanically Polished Concrete (MPC)

• Grind to achieve required aggregate exposure

• Treat with grout & densifiers to fill pin-holes and harden surface

• Polish to required level of gloss

• Seal with penetrating sealer

• Buff to remove residue

Please note – MPC does not require a topical sealer and has no drying time

High-End Grind & Seal (HGS)

• Includes the grinding, grouting & densifying stages of the MPC Process

• Uses a topical sealer to comply with slip compliance in wet or external areas

Grind & Seal (G&S)

• Grind to achieve required aggregate exposure

• Seal with topical sealer of choice

Epoxy Application

• Floor preparation

• Application of Epoxy product as per specification

OUTLINE OF RATES

The following rates apply only as applicable and/or required:

Stand Alone RatesHourly Rate: $120+GST
Day Rate: $1,200+GST/Day
Detailed HandworkHourly Rate: $150+GST
Day Rate: $1500+GST

Variations and Rectifications
Hourly Rate: $120+GST
Day Rate: $1,200+GST/Day

Specific Items

Standard rates apply for Specific Items.

Specific Items include but are not limited to:

Stairs:$250+GST/stair
Vertical faces 
Additional AreaAs per quoted metre rate or >50m2 based on hourly rate minimum 3 hours
Additional GrindingAreas <50m2: based on hourly or day rate to match detail required Area
>50m2: as per quoted metre rate to match required exposure levels
Additional DetailIncrements of +$10/m2 for additional detail on top of quoted standard rate, based on level of detail required.
Ie. if quoted rate is after demo with no partitions, and partitions are installed by scheduled start date +$10/m2 to the quoted metre rate. If skirting boards are installed, add another $10+gst/m2 etc.
Major RepairsDefined as >6h inclusive of drying time $1,500+gst
Additional Materials  Case-by-case basis ie TruPC, Rapid Set, Specialised repair products

PAYMENT DETAILS


Payment Terms
Standard Terms: 7 Days Standard terms may be negotiated by writing before works commence only.
Payment ScheduleHolding: 6.5% Due on engagement
Deposit: 40% Due on Scheduling Please note: no works will commence before receipt of this payment
Final: 53.5% Due on Completion on agreed payment terms
Note on Deposits:
Bookings taken within 1 month of start date will require:
* holding & deposit to be paid together
* payment due 7 days from issue or before works commence if lead time is shorter.

DEFINING BILLABLE ITEMS

Stand Down and DelaysInterruption to works outside of The Contractor’s control (excluding forces of nature) that affect the Project Schedule will be billed at the Hourly Rate.
eg. delays caused by the builder, site access requirements not being met, required exclusions not supplied (skip bin, power etc…)
Rectification Works and VariationsAny change to the Scope of Works outlined in Contact ad Project Details, Scope of Works must be approved in writing by both parties, including but not limited to:

Concrete Placement:
Due to the nature of concrete placement, the Contractor will not be held liable for any misplaced concrete or permanent errors
ie. screed-bar marks, footprints, excess grinding >6mm, edges falling away.
Any additional works required to rectify concrete placement will incur additional charges based on the required work. 
The Contractor will advise the Client of any recommended rectification works before commencement

Water Damage:
The Contractor will not be held liable for any water damage. The build must be water-tight at commencement of polishing works (ie. roof on,, windows in, no leaks).
Any works required to rectify water damaged floor will incur additional charges based on the required work
The Contractor will advise the Client of any recommended rectification works before commencement

Damage due to unapproved floor protection or incorrect installation:
The protection of the floor across the duration of the build is the responsibility of the Client.
Only approved materials (Protect-a-Floor or RamBoard) have pre-approval for use. All other protection materials must be discussed with the Contractor before installation.
Protection material is not intended to be a long-term solution.  If protection is likely to be required longer than 2 months, please advise the Contractor.
Floor protection may only be installed a minimum of 72h after completion of MPC work, failure to comply may result in damage to the finish.
Additional costs will be incurred for rectification of any damage incurred through:
* the use of unapproved floor protection;
* early installation of floor protection; and
* long-term use of floor protection

Additional Grinding:
Standard grinding works to achieve full exposure remove approx. 3-6mm of concrete material from the surface depending on concrete placement.
Any requirement for additional grinding above 6mm will be charged as outlined in Outline of Rates: Specific Items, Additional Grinding Additional dust or slurry waste materials produced through additional grinding will be added to waste removal charges if Dust Removal Option has been provided.

Hydration Marks and Staining:
Tile/vinyl/other floor covering removal may reveal hydration marks on concrete
Hydration marks can also be caused by storage of objects on the slab
Staining can also occur under these circumstances and is dealt with in the same manner.
Staining may also fall under Concrete Problems, Contamination
There is no guarantee that hydration marks/staining can be removed in all cases.
Additional grinding or treatment requested by the Client to attempt to remove hydration marks or staining will be charged on a case-by-case basis as per Defining Billable Items: Rectification Works, Additional Grinding, with the understanding that there is no guarantee of removal

Major Repairs:
Major repairs are defined as additional works and billed to account for drying times and effect on production.
The full extent of repair requirements are not generally visible until after 1st grind.
Previously filled holes may also not become apparent until later along the MPC process
The full extent of levelling compound may also be revealed which may affect polishing and final visual effect.
Status of concrete will be communicated proactively with the Client.

Material Costs:
The substrate provided may require the use of additional materials to rectify repairs or create a polishable service.
Any such costs may be on-charged to the Client and will be managed on a case-by-case basis through communication by the Contractor.
The Contractor will communicate these costs and seek approval from the Client before proceeding with works
Additional Works:  Specific items, areas or works not included on the quote that require grinding, polishing, repairs, or patching will be charged at the rate for that item as outlined in Outline of Rates: Specific Items.
These items will be added on initial or final invoice depending on when added to the Scope.

OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS – RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLIENT

Vehicle AccessPlease note the following will be assessed at site inspection. 
Any changes that occur after site inspection must be advised before the scheduled start date. 
If access is not as inspected and delays ensure, these will be billed on a case-by-case basis as outline in Defining Billable Items: Stand Down and Delays.
Access requirements include but are not limited to:
* Ground stability suitable for LWB vehicle
* Non-obstructed with building material turning circle, adequate to allow for safe entry (for unpack/pack)
* Path width to floor area (for unpack/pack)
* Overhead clearance
* Gradients + Multistorey
Parking Parking for LWB vehicle/truck/trailer close to slab or site for equipment set up [2m away is desirable for equipment set-up [residential].
Parking for Generator (if required). Maximum lead length 30 metres is preferred.
Access – FloorClear access into the building from car park
Uninterrupted floor space for entirety of the job ie. no other trade in same area.
Access – WaterWater source must be within 20 metres of slab.
Skip BinSize dependent on area of works.
Consult with the Contractor for skip bin size indication.
Floor ProtectionIf further construction is scheduled, floor protection is recommended.
Pre-approved floor protection products are:
* RamBoard
* Protect-a-floor
Use of unapproved floor protection products can cause defects in the finish the Contractor will not be held liable for:
* any damage to the floor occurring after handover
* use of unapproved floor protection products
For protection of concrete prior to Surface Polish finishes, refer to Additional Information: Surface Polish
Furniture Protection  Despite the use of state-of-the-art equipment and best practices, there are traces amounts of free dust produced through the grinding & polishing process.
The Contractor does not include protection of furniture or appliances in the scope works (ie. on-top of kitchen benchtops, computers, appliances etc..).
It is advised that if these are present in the area of works that sheets or additional methods are used to cover and installed and secured by the Client.
IsolationsIt is recommended that smoke detectors are disarmed during works.
The Contractor will not be held liable for activating alarm or sprinkler systems triggered by minimal free dust in the environment.
LightingAdequate lighting provided in work area and entry/exits for safe operations.
Temporary lighting provided in the absence of main lighting.

CONCRETE REQUIREMENTS

New Builds

  • On receipt of holding fee, a Pour Guide for Polished Concrete will be shared with the Client
  • Non-compliance with the Pour Guide may result in requirement for Additional Works not outlined in the Quote
  • It is the responsibility of the Client to communicate any queries in relation to the concrete directly to the Contractor prior to the pour.
  • Concrete requires the following curing times:
    • 14 days prior to grinding (subject to specific concrete)
    • 28 days prior to polishing

Renovations

  • To conduct the polishing process, the floor must be within tolerance (3mm over 3m).  If the concrete provided is outside of tolerance, grinding will be required to rectify.  If variance is >6mm, additional grinding rates will be applied as per Outline of Rates: Additional Grinding.
  • Requirements may be observable at site inspection; however, the full extent of rectification works may not be ascertainable until after works commence.
  • The Contractor will advise the Client or any additional grinding requirements as variations will affect the quote and the level of stone exposure.
  • As the Contractor has not been involved in the specification of the concrete and where the history of the concrete is not available, the status, additives & contamination levels of the concrete are unknown before grinding (see also Contaminants & Permanent Errors).
  • Rectification works may be required to proceed with works and may not be determinable until works commence.
  • Rectifications or Additional Works will be billed at the rates outlined in Outline of Rates: Rectifications &/or Additional Works and added to the final invoice.
  • The strength of the concrete may also affect the quote as the use of additional densifiers may be required for very soft concrete to protect the integrity of the final product.
    • This may or may not be determinable at site inspection.
    • Addition as a billable item will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Contractor and is subject to approval by the Client.

Stairs

The requirements for stairs are outlined in associated codes and standards.

  • In Australia, the Standard AS1657 indicates the minimum and maximum dimensions of risers and goings and the maximum deviation between steps. The standard also outlines the slope relationship and the tolerance between steps +/- 5mm.
  • Meeting concrete placement tolerances is the responsibility of the concreter.
  • It is pertinent for the concrete polisher to discuss that tolerances have been assessed and signed off on, before finalising scope of works.
  • Any requirement to rectify concrete placement on stairs must be discussed before works commence.

CONCRETE PROBLEMS: OUTSIDE OF THE CONTRACTORS CONTROL

Contamination and /or Staining

Contamination and/or staining of the concrete is defined as the presence of a known or unknown substance on or in the concrete substrate.

  • Oil and/or other contaminants can absorb into the concrete and be invisible to the eye before works commence.
  • Contamination may render a slab “unpolishable” as the contaminants can react with the grout and densifiers despite best practices to remove.
  • Contamination may not be revealed until after works commence and several stages of the MPC process are completed.
  • Staining may affect the colour of the concrete yet not affect the integrity of the polish or the ability of the Contractor to conduct the scope of works.
  • It may not be possible to reduce the aesthetic appearance of the stain through the standard process.
  • In the event of contamination or staining being an issue, the Contractor will communicate with the client to recommend or outline possible a courses of action and associated costs.

Permanent Errors

Permanent Errors are defined as:

  • errors that occurred during production, pour or placement that cannot be rectified through finishing works; and
  • blemishes that have occurred after placement that cannot be “undone” through finishing works.

Permanent errors may become apparent over the course of works and include but not limited to:

  • unapproved additives
  • fly ash
  • hydration marks
  • screed-bar marks
  • dry lines
  • trowel marks
  • footprints.

The above will be raised with the client if they will affect the final visual product.

If the concrete finish requested or the desired aesthetic is not achievable with the concrete provided due to permanent errors, the Contractor will communicate options with the client before works proceed.

Concrete Cracking

Concrete cracks.  Cracking is not within the control of the concrete polisher. 

  • The methods used to address cracks are dependent on the size and type of the crack ie. hairline, structural.  Each crack must be addressed on a case-by-case basis.
  • The concrete polisher will assess if the crack will be repaired during standard operations or if it will require additional repair works. 
  • It is noted that the type of repair will affect the end aesthetic presentation and the final product, and it is recommended that all involved discuss and agree to the expected outcome in writing before works proceed.
  • Structural cracks may continue to crack over time which can affect the longevity of the crack repair and timing is suggested to be taken into consideration when deciding on detailed structural repairs.

Opposing Factors

Opposing Factors are defined as conditions or constraints that inhibit simultaneous achievement of multiple objectives within the MPC process.

EXAMPLE:

  • An MPC Product has been sold.
  • The concrete is contaminated by an unknown source.
  • The MPC process can be completed however there will be a greater level of grout pluck out than expected when there is no contamination.
  • The choice for the Client is:
    •  “Do you want to proceed with the creation of the MPC product with the understanding that there will likely be a greater level of visible pinholes in the final product?”

or

  • “Do you want to choose a different product (ie. Grind and Seal) with the understanding that a topical sealer will be used and therefore the floor will not be as durable over time as the MPC product sold”

If an MPC finish is deemed the most important factor, it must be acknowledged that there may be an increase in visible pinholes.

This is one example of Opposing Factors only.  Some other examples include but are not limited to:

  • Flattening the floor v’s maintaining required levels in adjoining areas
  • Achieving a seamless finish v’s not wanting to remove skirting boards
  • Staging after plaster v’s damage to plaster due to protection tape tearing board
  • Proceeding with a Surface Polish finish v’s concrete not placed for surface polish

It When Opposing Factors are present:

  • Each case will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis
  • Opposing factors will be weighed up to determine best course of action to preserve the priorities
  • The Client must acknowledge in writing that they agree with the decided course of action and that they understand that all objectives cannot be achieved in unison
  • It is noted that:
    • the contractor can explore options that are within their control only;
    • extensive exploration of options may require reimbursement for Additional Works; and
    • any additional explorative works to be billed, will be discussed, and approved by the client in writing before proceeding.

Flora, Fauna & other Natural Events

Contamination, staining or damage to the raw or polished concrete can occur through flora, fauna or other natural events including but not limited to:

  • bird droppings
    • acid rain
    • flooding
    • rust
    • natural debris
  • The Contractor will not be held liable for rectification of these types of damages – please see 2. Outline of Rates: Rectification Works

Also refer toConcrete Problems: Contamination & Permanent Errors

WARRANTIES

Defects  Defects are defined as defected workmanship.
Any defect in workmanship is to be raised and rectified before handover.
The Contractor is not liable for any defects that occur over time including but not limited to concrete cracking or rising damp.
The Contractor works solely with the surface of the concrete and is not responsible for the structural integrity of the concrete.
While the concrete polishing process provides some stain resistance, it is not stain-proof.  Staining is not treated as a defect of the product.
Assessing DefectsAdvice regarding the assessment of defects may differ per region.
It is suggested that the Contractor understanding the relevant guidelines in their region.
Guidelines will likely outline the position, angle, lighting required to assess defects in horizontal and vertical surfaces. 
General MPC Guarantee  MPC floors are generally accepted to be “non-dusting” for 7 years.
This means that after MPC processing, the substrate’s surface will not breakdown to a chalky/dusty finish during that period.
This may vary based on the specific products used by the Contractor and associated manufacturers warranties.
Although MPC has the capacity to be a long-lasting and durable product, it is the Client’s responsibility to maintain the floor following the Maintenance Instructions provided by the Contractor to uphold the aesthetics and durability.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Renovations and Refurbishments

  • During renovation/refurbishment works best practices are adhered to minimise risk of damage to finished walls, cabinetry, and fixtures.
  • Minor damage to walls and surrounding surfaces may occur despite these efforts.
  • The Contractor will address any such instances in a case-by-case manner.
  • The Contractor will not be held liable for full cost of materials to rectify any minor damage (ie. Specific paint for touch ups)
  • Polished Off WA will take all reasonable care to minimise such damage; however, responsibility for protection of surrounding areas rests with the Client. The Client must ensure that all cabinetry, fixtures, fittings, appliances, and finishes in the work area are either removed or adequately protected before commencement of works.
  • Polished Off WA will not be liable for cleaning, repairing, or replacing any damage to surrounding areas caused during the works. Any protective measures required (e.g., sheeting, coverings, isolation barriers) are to be arranged by the Client unless otherwise agreed in writing as part of the Scope of Works.
  • Where Polished Off WA provides protective measures at the Client’s request, this will be treated as a variation and charged at the applicable rate.

External Works

  • External works are subject to weather
  • Sealers cannot be applied in the wet
  • After application of the sealer, the following applies:
  • No foot traffic for 12h
  • Do not drive over for 72h

Grouting

  • The grouting procedure is an essential part of the MPC process
  • This process mechanically combines the ground material from the surface with the grouting liquid.
  • The resulting slurry is mechanically worked into pinholes
  • Even under best practices it is realistic to expect that a small percentage (up to 5%) of pinholes will remain unfilled, this is not qualified as a defect in workmanship.
  • Visual presence of pinholes must be assessed as per guidelines in the relevant regulatory guidelines applicable in your region (ie. VBA Standards and Tolerances Guidelines)

Slip Compliance

  • If a specific slip rating is required to fit the purpose of the space, please discuss this with the Contractor before works commence.
  • Slip testing can be organised before handover however it is noted that slip resistance changes once the floor is exposed to foot traffic

Surface Polish

  • A surface polished finish is HIGHLY DEPENDENT on concrete placement
  • This finish bypasses the grinding and grouting stages of the MPC process
  • As such, the concreter must essentially cover these stages through their process of burnishing the concrete ie. removal or pinholes, create floor flatness within 3mm over 3m
  • If the concrete has not been placed or burnished correctly, a surface polish may not be a feasible finish
  • The Contractor is available for consultation with the builder/concreter in the lead up to the pour
  • Concrete that is poured with the intention of a surface polish finish must be treated as finished floor from the outset
  • Any staining or blemishes incurred during the building process are likely to be unable to be removed by the Contractor, this is not a defect in workmanship this is the nature of a surface polish finish

Concrete Colour

  • Concrete colour is controlled by the concrete mix and variables present during the pour (ie. moisture in the air, temperature, placement speed, placement technique etc…)
  • The effect of these variables can be accounted for by the concreter only, the concrete polisher can only work with the substrate provided and cannot always rectify any imperfections after the concrete has been poured, this includes colour variation.
  • It is recommended that concrete is poured all in one pour to minimise the risk of different coloured concrete across the build

The effect of the MPC Process on concrete colour

  • The process and products used to produce a MPC finish will affect the colour of the concrete marginally (concrete will become slightly darker)
  • If you have colour concerns or specific colour expectations, it is recommended that a sample product is produced with the chosen mix before your pour
  • It is noted that while a sample will allow for a great representation of the end MPC finish, it does not ensure an exact match with the final product.  This is due to the nature of concrete and the effect of the variables involved in the pour, including but not limited to those outlined above.
  • It is understood that producing an exact and/or consistent colour is outside the control of the Contractor control and is governed by the substrate provided.

Repairs

  • The aesthetic appearance of repairs will be subject to the specifics of the agreement
  • Expectation regarding repair colour is to be discussed before repair works are agreed upon and outlined in writing as part of the Scope of Works.

Natural Product

  • As concrete is a natural product, it is susceptible to variation.
  • No two concrete floors will be the same.
  • No two MPC floors will be the same despite undergoing the same manufacturing process.
  • Variation between samples and within samples can be expected.
  • Samples are used to provide an aesthetic indication for approval by the Client and also serve to set the required process for the Contractor.

EPOXY WORKS

Surface Preparation Requirements

  • Prior to epoxy application, the substrate must be free of all contaminants including oil, grease, curing agents, paint, and laitance.
  • Surface preparation shall be carried out by mechanical grinding to achieve an open, clean, and porous surface profile suitable for epoxy adhesion. The surface must be vacuumed thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
  • Any additional surface remediation (including deep oil contamination, soft concrete removal, or levelling) will be treated as a Variation and billed accordingly.

Moisture Testing

  • The Contractor will perform a visual and/or instrument moisture assessment prior to coating.
  • The substrate must not exceed 5% moisture content or 75% RH unless the epoxy system specified is moisture-tolerant.
  • If excessive moisture is detected, the Client will be notified immediately, and additional drying or moisture-barrier products will be required. These works will be charged as a Variation.

Environmental and Application Conditions
Epoxy products must be applied within the manufacturer’s recommended environmental limits:

  • Ambient temperature: 10°C – 25°C
  • Relative humidity: below 85%
  • Surface temperature: minimum 3°C above dew point

Epoxy coating application will not proceed in direct sunlight, strong wind, or during rain. After-hours application may be required to achieve correct curing conditions; this will be communicated to the Client in advance and billed as a Variation.

Recoat Windows and Access Control

  • Recoat intervals between epoxy layers will follow the manufacturer’s technical data sheet.
  • If Polished Off WA cannot access the work area within the specified recoat window, the surface will require re-sanding or abrasion to restore adhesion. Such works will be charged as a Variation.
  • The Client is responsible for ensuring that no other trades enter the area during curing and that the site remains sealed and clean.

Contamination and Damage Between Coats

  • If contamination occurs between coats (e.g., dust, foot traffic, leaks, insect or animal damage, or foreign materials), the affected area will be rectified at additional cost.
  • To minimise risk, Polished Off WA will cordon off the area, post “Wet Paint – No Entry” signage, and inform the Client of access restrictions.

Hot Weather Curing Management

  • Where site temperatures exceed 30°C, epoxy curing rates accelerate and can compromise adhesion and finish.
  • Polished Off WA may delay or reschedule coating to maintain product performance.
    If application outside normal hours is required to maintain temperature control, this will constitute a Variation.

Quality Assurance and Testing

  • All epoxy works will comply with manufacturer specifications and relevant Australian Standards (AS 2311 and AS 4586).
  • Polished Off WA will record site temperature, humidity, and dew point readings before and during application.
  • Photographic documentation will be retained for quality verification.

Client Responsibilities (Epoxy Works)
The Client must ensure that:

  • The site is weather-tight, with no leaks or water ingress.
  • Other trades are excluded from epoxy work zones during preparation and curing.
  • Adequate lighting and power are available for application and curing.
    Failure to meet these conditions may result in delays or additional costs.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION

  • MPC is a unique product insofar as it is manufactured onsite with the substrate provided
  • As such, the communication between all parties involved in the design and production of the product is paramount.
  • Proactive communication with the Contractor is encouraged.
  • It is noted that the Contractor is not an “installer” of the product, but the operator of machinery and the manufacturing process.
  • As such, the role of the operator in the manufacture of the product is active over passive.
  • To enable efficient operations clear expectations, specification and communications are requested.
  • Where clear specification is absent, the Contractor will provide a clear description of the final outcome with focus on the level of stone and level of gloss to be provided.