Gloss Levels

When deciding on the best polished concrete look for your Perth project, three major factors will influence the final appearance and cost of your floor. These include your preferred polishing method, stone exposure, and gloss level. We’ll walk you through the process of choosing the best finish for your concrete flooring in the steps below.

Gloss Levels

Step 1: Choose Your Polishing Method

The first decision in the polished concrete process is determining whether you want a Grind and Seal or a Mechanically Polished Concrete (MPC) finish. Each method offers distinct benefits and aesthetics, depending on your needs. Want to know more? Check out our video that explains the differences between these two techniques.

Step 2: Choose Your Stone Exposure

Once you’ve chosen your polishing method, it’s time to decide how much of the underlying aggregate (stone) you want to reveal. This will have a significant impact on the look of your floor. Click here to learn more about stone exposure. The exposure levels include:

Nil Exposure: This option shows little to no stone and provides a smooth, consistent finish. It’s ideal for people who want a clean, solid surface.
Minimum Exposure: A random amount of stone is visible, offering a slightly more textured look while still maintaining a refined appearance.
Full Exposure: The most dramatic option, where a significant amount of stone is revealed, creating a striking, textured surface. This is perfect for those seeking a bold, industrial look.

Step 3: Choose Your Desired Gloss Level

The final step in achieving your ideal polished concrete look is choosing the appropriate gloss level. The gloss level determines your floor’s shine and overall aesthetic, and it can have a significant impact on the amount of maintenance required. Here are some common gloss options:

Matte Finish: A matte finish gives your floor a more natural, industrial look. It’s the most practical choice for homes, cafes, shops, and other commercial spaces due to its minimal maintenance requirements. This finish doesn’t show dust or footprints easily, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
Semi-Gloss Finish: The semi-gloss finish strikes a perfect balance between shine and practicality. It’s the most popular choice among our clients because it offers a subtle sheen without the high-maintenance needs of a glossy finish. Semi-gloss floors are easier to maintain and still add a refined elegance to any space.
High Gloss Finish: For those looking for a luxurious, show-stopping floor, the high gloss finish is the way to go. It creates a reflective, mirror-like surface that makes your floors stand out. While stunning, it does require more maintenance, as any dirt, dust, or smudges are more noticeable. However, many homeowners and business owners find that the dramatic effect is well worth the effort.

Maintenance and Cost Considerations

While choosing a gloss level mainly comes down to personal preference, there are a few practical factors to consider. Matte finishes are easier to maintain and are more forgiving when it comes to visible dirt and dust. Semi-gloss offers a good balance between maintenance and shine, making it a popular choice. High gloss finishes, though stunning, tend to show imperfections more easily and require regular upkeep.

It’s also important to note that the cost of your polished concrete floor may vary depending on the gloss level. For Grind and Seal floors, the price remains the same regardless of whether you choose matte, semi-gloss, or high gloss. However, with Mechanically Polished Concrete, there’s a slight price increase for higher gloss finishes due to the extra labor involved in achieving that higher level of shine.

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Selecting the right gloss level is a personal decision that will impact the look and maintenance of your polished concrete floors. Whether you choose a natural matte, a balanced semi-gloss, or a dramatic high gloss, you can rest assured that each finish will provide a stunning result tailored to your style and space.