Browse through the categories below to explore clear, helpful responses to the most frequently asked questions. Just click on a box to learn more—it’s all designed to help you make informed choices about your flooring. If your question isn’t covered, feel free to give us a call on 1300 694 746—our team is ready to assist you with expert advice and personalised support.
At Precision Polished Concrete, we offer a variety of concrete finishing solutions tailored to suit different needs and environments. Our services include:
Mechanically Polished Concrete is a long-lasting, high-end flooring solution designed specifically for indoor areas. This method involves refining the actual concrete surface through a series of grinding, hardening, grouting, and polishing steps. The concrete is strengthened through densification and brought to a smooth, glass-like finish. You can choose a matte, satin, or glossy look depending on how far into the polishing process you’d like to go. Since there’s no coating on top, there’s nothing to peel or wear off, which makes it incredibly durable.
Learn more about Mechanically Polished Concrete
Grind and Seal, on the other hand, entails grinding the concrete to the desired level of exposure before applying a clear topical sealant (such as polyurethane or epoxy) to protect the surface. This option has a similar aesthetic to polished concrete but is less expensive and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Sealers come in matte, satin, and gloss finishes, with anti-slip additives available for added safety. However, because this is a coated system, the sealant will eventually need to be reapplied—usually every few years, depending on usage.
Honed concrete is an excellent choice for outdoor spaces such as garden paths, alfresco zones, and poolside surrounds. This surface is ground coarsely—typically between 60 and 120 grit—to create a subtle texture that improves traction and reduces the risk of slipping. After preparation, a penetrating sealer is applied to protect the concrete and improve its appearance. You can choose a clear, natural finish or a sealer that deepens the color for a richer appearance.
Click here to learn more about Honed Concrete
Mechanically polished concrete, by contrast, is a more involved process suited for interiors. The concrete is densified, polished, and refined for a smooth and luxurious finish. This method provides a stronger surface with a highly aesthetic result, ranging from matte to high gloss.
Under dry conditions, polished concrete is no more slippery than most other hard flooring surfaces. However, like tiles or timber, it can become slippery when wet. That’s why for exterior use or areas prone to moisture, we recommend finishes such as honed concrete or grind and seal with anti-slip additives. These options are ideal for spaces around pools, entryways, or commercial settings where traction is essential.
Yes! We offer slip-resistant options tailored to your specific environment. While mechanically polished floors have natural grip under dry conditions, we can recommend alternatives like grind and seal with anti-slip agents added to the surface. Whether you're working with a wet zone, commercial kitchen, or outdoor area, we can adjust the level of traction to suit safety requirements.
Industrial settings demand flooring that’s not only durable, but also resistant to chemicals, high foot traffic, and machinery. In these cases, we typically recommend Grind and Seal. Our team will work closely with you to assess your facility’s needs and recommend the best solution for performance and longevity.
Yes, polished concrete can be used in wet areas, but it is vital to select the appropriate finish. Grind and seal is the commonly used in wet environments because of its water-tight sealing properties. We can also use anti-slip compounds to increase safety. If you choose mechanically polished concrete, we recommend using non-slip mats in showers or leaving the finish matte to reduce slipperiness.
Absolutely! While traditional mechanically polished concrete is not recommended for outdoor use, primarily because it can become slippery when wet, honed concrete is an excellent alternative. This option is specially finished to improve traction and withstand sunlight, making it a safer and more durable choice for outdoor use.
Honed concrete is ideal for areas such as patios, pool surrounds, carports, and driveways where both appearance and functionality are important.
We can apply the same concrete dye to both slabs to help achieve a more unified look. However, keep in mind that color absorption may vary slightly between slabs, so while we can get them to look similar, a perfect match isn’t always guaranteed.
If you're pouring a brand-new slab—like in a new build or an extension—you’ll have access to a variety of concrete mix options, depending on your local suppliers. These mixes differ in both cement color and aggregate (stone) type. If you're working with an existing slab, you're generally limited to whatever materials are already in place. A concrete dye can be used to tweak the color, but many clients find that the natural look of polished concrete—regardless of the original mix—is striking on its own.
Yes, but it depends on whether you're working with a new or existing slab. New slabs give you the freedom to choose both the stone and cement color. For existing slabs, the original materials determine the final appearance. Concrete dyes can be used for a subtle color shift, but the natural tones often shine through beautifully after polishing.
We specialize in grinding and polishing only. That said, we work closely with experienced concreters and would be happy to refer you to trusted professionals for the pour.
Minor cracks can be filled as part of our grouting process. If you opt for a high-performance finish like Husqvarna Hiperfloor, the surface is also hardened significantly, improving durability. While we can repair most cracks, concrete by nature may develop them over time.
We generally advise against in-slab heating for polished concrete floors. The heat can interfere with sealers and densifiers, leading to surface deterioration, increased cracking risk, and reduced stain resistance. If underfloor heating is essential, it must be managed very carefully—gradual temperature increases and a max of 30°C water temp are strongly recommended.
Typically, internal framing can start around 3 days after pouring, depending on weather conditions. High humidity or rain can slow the curing process, so it’s always best to check with your builder for site-specific advice.
A freshly poured slab should be left untouched for at least 48 hours. Early foot traffic can disturb the distribution of aggregate beneath the surface, potentially creating uneven exposure once the floor is polished.
Contact your concrete supplier and inform them that the slab is for polishing. Many companies provide decorative mixes specifically designed for this purpose. A 32/10/80 mix is commonly used for full stone exposure. Consider using 40MPA concrete if possible, and always request fresh water—not recycled—to reduce discoloration risks.
If a footprint appears in the wet slab, it should be patched with a proper concrete mix containing aggregate—not just surface screed. This helps avoid visible bald spots during polishing.
Even if your concrete slab was not perfectly poured, it may still be able to be polished. However, some finishes, such as nil exposure, may be impossible if the slab does not meet certain requirements, such as adequate compressive strength (MPA) or proper curing. We'll examine your slab and discuss what is realistically achievable for your space.
We recommend that your concreter use a fillet (rounded edge) on stair noses. This allows us to maintain consistent stone exposure while polishing. Stair risers must also be properly vibrated to avoid large air pockets. If your stairs have intricate shapes or tight angles, please share the plans with us before pouring to ensure they are suitable for polishing.
Polished concrete is incredibly low-maintenance. For everyday cleaning, a dry microfiber mop will help collect dust and debris. For deeper cleaning, simply use warm water or a pH-neutral floor cleaner—no harsh chemicals needed. Make sure to wipe up any spills promptly to avoid any potential staining or surface etching.
Mechanically polished concrete and honed concrete are designed to retain their appearance for years. They won’t fade or discolour when properly maintained. However, if your floor has a topical sealer (like those used in grind-and-seal systems), it may be vulnerable to UV exposure, which can cause yellowing or peeling over time if the sealer isn’t UV-stable.
Yes—especially if you’ve opted for a mechanically polished finish. These floors typically only need resealing every 10 years or so. On the other hand, grind-and-seal floors may need resealing more frequently—anywhere from every 2 to 10 years depending on the type and quality of sealer used. Regular cleaning and prompt spill clean-up go a long way in preserving the finish.
In many cases, yes. If you have a mechanically polished surface, small damaged areas can often be repaired without redoing the entire floor. For grind-and-seal finishes, achieving a consistent look might require resurfacing larger sections to avoid noticeable patchwork.
All our finishes include a protective sealer that helps guard against staining. While polished concrete is resistant to most stains, it's still a good idea to clean up any spills as soon as possible to prevent them from soaking in—especially with acidic or strongly pigmented liquids like wine, coffee, or oil.
The best time to start planning your polished concrete floors is right at the beginning of your building project. It's important to coordinate with your builder or concreter early on, as certain slab pouring techniques can significantly affect the final polished result. Ideally, the slab should be fully cured for at least 28 days before any polishing begins.
From there, we can complete the polishing process in one go or in two stages depending on your construction schedule. If done in one stage, it’s best after the house frame is up and the interior is sealed from weather. If done in two stages, we’ll start with a rough grind and grouting before framing, followed by a protective coating until construction is nearly complete. We then return for the final polish.
Typically, we recommend waiting a minimum of 28 days for the concrete to cure properly. However, we also offer an accelerated system that can allow polishing to begin as early as 7 to 10 days after the pour. This fast-track method involves applying specialized products to the slab on the day it's poured. If you’re interested in this quicker turnaround, feel free to ask us for more details.
Polished concrete is generally completed after the house is at lock-up stage—when the structure is enclosed and water-tight but before internal finishes like plastering, cabinetry, or skirting boards go in. This timing helps us achieve a flawless finish right up to the edges.
If you’re using our rapid-curing system, we’ll complete the polishing earlier and apply a removable protective layer that stays on the floor until the final stages of construction.
It’s not recommended. Once cabinetry, skirting, or other fixtures are installed, our polishing equipment can’t reach all areas, especially tight corners and edges. This results in an uneven, unfinished look. Plus, the risk of damage to your new interiors is high, and the process can kick up fine dust even with vacuum systems in place. For best results, polished concrete should always be completed before the final handover.
In general, polishing the floors before installing floor-to-ceiling glass or permanent fixtures is safer and more efficient. This reduces the risk of damage while also resulting in cleaner edge detail. However, we are happy to assess your particular layout and provide tailored advice.
That depends on the type of finish you’ve chosen.
If you’ve opted for our early-stage system with protective coating, the risk of damage is minimal unless something heavy or sharp hits the surface. Any required touch-ups or repairs will be quoted based on the situation.
Not necessarily. Polished concrete has excellent thermal mass, meaning it can absorb warmth from sunlight during the day and gradually release it as temperatures drop. So, in cooler months, if your floor is exposed to direct sunlight, it can actually contribute to a more comfortable indoor climate by radiating that stored heat in the evening.
Yes! The naturally reflective surface of polished concrete can brighten up interiors by bouncing light around the room. This can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day and contribute to energy savings over time.
Polished concrete is one of the most hard-wearing flooring solutions available. Mechanically polished concrete, in particular, is extremely resistant to wear and tear because there's no surface coating to chip, peel, or scratch. For slightly less traffic-heavy areas, grind and seal finishes are also available, and our team can help choose the best sealer depending on how the space will be used.
A properly installed and maintained polished concrete floor can last for more than a decade. Mechanically polished surfaces can last 10-12 years or longer without requiring major touch-ups. Sealed or honed finishes may require reapplication of the sealer every few years, depending on traffic and usage, but the concrete itself is structurally stable.
Absolutely. Concrete is typically made from abundant materials like limestone, and polishing existing concrete surfaces eliminates the need for new flooring materials. Many mixes now incorporate recycled content such as crushed glass or industrial by-products, reducing landfill waste. It also has a long lifespan and low maintenance needs, making it a greener alternative compared to more disposable flooring options.
Yes, they’re an excellent choice. Polished concrete is a non-porous surface that doesn’t trap dust, pollen, pet dander, or other allergens. Unlike carpets or certain wood finishes, it won’t harbor mould or mites, making it ideal for people with asthma or sensitivities.
Our advanced dust extraction systems ensure a surprisingly clean polishing process. We use industrial-grade vacuum systems with HEPA filters, which capture approximately 98% of the dust generated during grinding. While handheld tools may leave a small amount of fine dust in tighter spots, our team thoroughly cleans the area after each stage. When we're done, you may notice a light dust film—similar to what you'd expect if you hadn't dusted your home in a few weeks.
If you’ve chosen a mechanically polished finish, the great news is you can walk on it as soon as the job is done—there’s no drying time involved. We just recommend avoiding water or wet cleaning for the first 24–72 hours to let everything fully settle. For surfaces sealed with epoxy or other coatings, you’ll need to wait 24 hours before walking on them, and about 7 days before placing heavy loads like vehicles.
The duration of the project depends on a few things: the size of the area, how accessible it is, the level of finish you want, and whether it’s a grind and seal or a full mechanical polish. For example, a standard double garage floor with a grind and seal finish typically takes 2–3 days. A house with around 100m² of concrete for high-end polishing might take 5–6 days. We’ll always give you a time estimate before we begin.
Yes, we offer flexible scheduling and can carry out work outside regular hours—including evenings and weekends—if needed. Just keep in mind that after-hours services may incur an additional charge.
Oil stains can be tricky, but we have methods to deal with them. We start by grinding the surface to remove the top layer, which often gets rid of light stains. If deeper staining remains, we can use a specialized purging process to draw the oil out of the concrete. While this method is usually effective, some stains may be too deep to fully eliminate. In those cases, we recommend applying a solid-color epoxy finish to mask any remaining discoloration.
Yes, polished concrete can be installed on second and upper levels. However, there are a few important factors to consider. Upper floors are typically built with suspended concrete slabs, which are often poured with stronger concrete than ground-level slabs.
As a result, visual consistency, particularly with exposed aggregate, may differ from that of the ground floor. Furthermore, polishing grinding machines can be extremely heavy (up to 400kg), necessitating the use of cranes or hoisting equipment because they cannot be moved by stairs.
Polished concrete does reflect more sound than carpeted flooring, but it's not inherently noisy. Acoustic performance depends more on the overall construction of the space—such as insulation, wall density, and ceiling materials—than the concrete itself.
Adding rugs, curtains, and soft furnishings can help absorb sound. Many modern homes and apartments use polished concrete for its durability and style, with acoustic considerations easily managed through design choices.
Yes, it can be! At Precision Polished Concrete, we offer eco-conscious solutions that include low-VOC (volatile organic compound) products. These options help improve indoor air quality while still delivering the same high-performance, long-lasting finish you expect from polished concrete.
Yes, you can customise the look of your concrete by applying a stain or dye. However, it's important to note that every concrete slab reacts differently depending on its age, mix, and porosity—so the final shade may vary slightly across the surface. We offer a variety of colour options to help you achieve the look you’re after, with sample images available to guide your selection.
Polished concrete provides excellent long-term value due to its durability and low maintenance. While the initial cost may be higher than some traditional options, it usually lasts much longer without the need for replacement or extensive maintenance. Because each project is tailored to your specific space, factors such as the floor's current condition, area size, desired finish level (matte to high-gloss), and decorative options (such as stone exposure) all have an impact on the cost. It is not a one-size-fits-all product, but rather a skilled, multi-step process. To get an accurate estimate, please contact our team directly.
In many cases, yes. While polished concrete and high-quality tiles can be in a similar price range, tiles often come with separate supply and installation charges. Polished concrete combines both into a single streamlined process. Plus, you benefit from a seamless, modern finish and less maintenance over time. When comparing apples to apples, polished concrete often comes out ahead in terms of long-term value and style.
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM