How polished concrete is made
Polishing is a process, not a coating. Crews grind the slab with progressively finer diamond abrasives, apply a densifier that hardens the surface, and finish with polishing steps that bring out the sheen. The result is a smooth, hard, reflective floor.
Finish choices include the level of sheen, the amount of aggregate exposed, and the colour. Dyes and stains can add tone, and joints and saw cuts can be left visible or filled.
What the slab decides
The concrete you start with controls the outcome. Patches, stains, cracks, trowel marks and variations in hardness will show. A slab that was never meant to be seen may reveal patchwork from old pipe trenches or removed walls.
That is why we look at the slab early. In a renovation, our crew can identify repairs and prepare for patching, and our mechanical and electrical teams plan trenching and floor boxes so cuts are made before polishing, not after. Where new work needs cutting into the slab, we plan for the visible result.
Dust is a concern. Grinding creates fine dust, so wet or dust-controlled methods are used, and occupied buildings need containment.
- Grinding, densifying and polishing of existing slabs
- Choice of sheen and aggregate exposure
- Dye and stain options
- Crack and joint treatment
- Sealers and protective treatments
What to plan for
Timing is flexible, but placement in the schedule matters. Polishing is a messy process, so it is generally done before finishing trades, and the finished floor must be protected afterward.
Protection is important. Polished concrete can scratch, stain or etch from spills, and heavy construction traffic can mark it, so covering and clean work practices help.
Maintenance is simple but not zero. Regular cleaning and occasional re-treatment keep the floor looking good, and we provide guidance for upkeep.
Finally, consider comfort and sound. Concrete is hard and echoes, so rugs, mats or acoustic ceilings can balance the space. Slip resistance should be considered in entrances and wet areas.