Fequently asked questions

About Pavers & Copings

Do Slatecrete Pavers require sealing?

We do recommend sealing the pavers and copings after laying; they will need 28 days to allow the concrete to fully cure. Our new showroom is coming soon at 2458 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka, where you'll be able to purchase a range of sealers directly. Alternatively, we can recommend a number of experienced and trusted concrete sealing specialists to undertake the job for you.

How often do I need to reseal Slatecrete pavers and copings?

We recommend resealing your pavers or copings at least every two years to keep them looking their best. The more frequently you seal the pavers, should enable them to repel the harsh NZ weather. Sealing concrete is similar to waxing your car paintwork or using Scotchgard on your furniture, it will repel water and last longer and look better. We can recommend a number of experienced and trusted concrete sealing specialists or supply a range of sealing products to purchase if you prefer DIY.

What is the best way to clean Slatecrete pavers and copings?

The best way to clean your pavers and copings is as you would with indoor tiles. Clean with hot soapy water and a mop or soft broom. We do not recommend water blasting your pavers and copings as this will potentially damage the surface of the product and disrupt the grout.

Are Slatecrete pavers made to prevent slipping?

Slatecrete’s pavers and copings come well within the National Slip-Co efficiency standard. We have our products tested every three years to ensure they always comply to these standards.

Can Slatecrete’s Pavers be driven on?

Slatecrete’s pavers are designed for light commercial and residential use, for heavier usage we do offer a specifically designed Slate Paver suitable for driveways or carparks. We are happy to assist to ensure you receive the correct product for your project.

Do you offer installation for Slatecrete’s pavers and pool copings?

We recommend using a professional paving contractor to ensure you get the very best finish. We have a number of trusted contractors that we have worked with for many years that we can put you in contact with. Alternatively, we are happy to organise the supply and laying of your pavers as a complete package. We will give you a ‘supply and lay’ price.
If you prefer DIY we  have extensive guidelines for installation on a compacted or sand base.

Will there be colour variances with Slatecrete's pavers and copings?

The materials used in the manufacturing of Slatecrete's pavers and copings, are high quality natural aggregates sourced from quarries, rivers and the ocean. Due to these natural ingredients you can expect colour variation from time to time. We recommend purchasing your pavers or coping stones at the same time to avoid colour variations that can occur with age.

About Retaining & Fencing

How high can I have a retaining wall and fence?

Slatecrete’s Retaining Wall System has been engineered for supporting retaining up to 1.5 metres with concrete posts and up to 2.0 metres with steel I-beam posts. Fencing has been engineered for fencing up to 2.2 metres with concrete posts.

What are the pros and cons of a concrete retaining wall/fence vs. other materials?

Slatecrete’s Concrete Retaining Wall and Fencing System is a long-lasting choice of material as opposed to other types of materials used for retaining and fencing. You will not get warping or rotting with a concrete retaining wall. If well maintained and cleaned, it will stay looking like new for years to come.  Slatecrete’s Retaining Wall System offers many benefits e.g.  it has a huge space saving option and saves on expensive and messy excavation.

About Concrete Benchtops

Will my kitchen cabinetry need reinforcing to support a concrete benchtop?

The majority of the Kitchens we have installed concrete benchtops on to, have not required additional reinforcing. Concrete benchtops only weigh approximately 15% more than granite, however if you are installing a new kitchen, you should always check with your cabinetmaker to see if they would prefer to add additional reinforcing. We can provide an estimate of the finished weight of the benchtop to assist building suitable cabinetry.

Will there be imperfections with a concrete benchtop?

As concrete is a natural product, each concrete benchtop will dry differently depending on the environment it is placed in, i.e. the temperature variation of the area it is placed in and the overall climatic conditions at the time of prodution e.g. temperature, humidity etc. As with all concrete, concrete benchtops can develop hairline cracks. If the concrete does crack, it is generally non-structural and caused by the natural shrinkage of the concrete. Hairline cracks or minor imperfections help to give that industrial concrete look and add to the character of the benchtop.

Can I put hot pots and pans on a concrete benchtop?

A Concrete benchtop could most certainly handle hot pots and pans, however the heat could damage the sealer on top of the benchtop, therefore we do not recommend placing hot pots and pans directly onto your concrete benchtop if it is sealed.

How often do I need to reseal a concrete benchtop?

We recommend sealing your concrete benchtop at least every two years to keep them looking their best and to ensure your bench top remains stain-free. We are happy to recommend a professional sealing specialist or you could do it yourself by following the sealer manufacturer guidelines.

Where can I view Slatecrete’s product range?

Our new showroom is coming soon.

Sheldon O'Connor

General manager

Sheldon has a wealth of knowledge in sales and customer service. With a great eye for detail and design he will be happy to assist you with your project requirements.

Email iconinfo@slatecrete.co.nz
Phone icon09 580 1220

Need a retaining wall?
We have you covered

For structurally sound, cost-effective and easy to install retaining walls and fencing, choose concrete. As an alternative option to brick, block or keystone, concrete requires fewer timber posts, less labour and minimal excavation. It is ideal where space is limited and with a simple three-step installation process, it’s perfect for your next DIY project.

We have multiple texture finishes and colour options available to match your landscape design.

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