Polished concrete
Question behind this page
How is concrete polished?
Mechanical polishing processes the slab with abrasives to create a selected exposure and appearance. It is distinct from coating concrete with a glossy film.
Process
Prepare the surface and repair appropriate defects. Initial grinding establishes how much material is removed and which aggregates become visible. Successively finer abrasive stages refine the surface. A compatible densifier reacts within the cementitious surface; a specified protection and maintenance system addresses use.
The Concrete Polishing Council glossary distinguishes polishing processes, densification, and related treatments. Its classes and levels guidance separates aggregate exposure from sheen.
| Choice | What it changes |
|---|---|
| Aggregate exposure | Amount and size of aggregate visible |
| Sheen | Desired reflected appearance |
| Repairs | Whether cracks and patches are visible features |
| Edge treatment | Consistency at walls, columns, and thresholds |
| Protection | Resistance to the actual staining and wear exposure |
Specify an outcome, not just a grit
An abrasive number alone does not reliably describe the finished look across different slabs and equipment. Approve a mockup and define appearance, exposure, finish consistency, and treatment of cracks and joints.
Existing slabs can contain patches, stains, uneven aggregate, or weak surface areas. Deeper grinding changes the appearance and is not always compatible with the original design. A polished floor retains the substrate’s history.
Practical tradeoffs
The surface is hard underfoot and can feel cool. Maintenance still matters. Densification is not universal waterproofing or a guarantee against staining.
Ordinary interior-floor polishing should not be transferred directly to a swimming-pool shell. Continuous immersion and pool chemistry require a specifically suitable system.
Related: Flooring, floor assemblies, and pool finishes.