4 Hidden Issues That Affect the Cost of Concrete Polishing in Sydney

When it comes to concrete polishing, not all floors are created equal.

While some slabs are in great condition and ready to go, others may need a bit of extra work before achieving that clean, durable, polished finish.

A common misconception is that concrete polishing is charged at a flat rate per square metre — but the reality is that the condition of your concrete plays a major role in the final cost.

Why Floor Condition Matters

Concrete polishing is a process that builds on the foundation you already have. The smoother and harder the base, the less preparation is needed.

Floors in poor condition, on the other hand, often require extra grinding, patching, and chemical treatments before the polishing can even begin.

This extra prep time and material use are what drive the cost up — but they’re also what make the finished result last much longer.

Common Issues That Increase Cost

1. Cracks and Holes → Patching

Cracks, holes, and surface chips need to be repaired before polishing.Professional patching ensures the floor surface is even, smooth, and reflective once finished. Without it, imperfections will show through the polish and weaken the structure over time.

2. Porous or Weak Concrete → More Densifier

If the concrete is soft or porous, it will absorb much more densifier — a chemical that strengthens the surface and improves polishability. Using more densifier means higher material costs, but it’s essential for building a solid, long-lasting foundation.

3. Uneven Surfaces → Extra Grinding

Floors that are uneven, covered in screed, or sitting at different heights require additional grinding. In some cases, several millimetres must be removed across large areas to achieve a level surface. This takes time, wears down the diamond tooling faster, and increases overall cost — but it’s critical for a consistent, professional finish.

4. Poor Finish or Contamination → Double Grouting

Old paint, glue, or surface contamination can leave pinholes and voids. To achieve a clean, sealed surface, these areas often need to be grouted twice. This extra step ensures a smooth and uniform polish that not only looks great but also performs better over time.

Why It’s Worth Doing Right

While it may seem tempting to skip some prep steps to save money, doing so almost always leads to problems later. Weak, uneven, or poorly prepared floors will wear down faster and lose their shine.

Proper patching, densifying, and levelling make a huge difference — and when done right, a polished concrete floor can last decades with minimal maintenance.

How to Avoid Surprises

The best way to avoid unexpected costs is to get an on-site inspection before quoting.

Every concrete floor tells a different story, and seeing it in person allows your contractor to identify potential issues upfront.

At Ausgrind, we’re transparent about our process and pricing. We’ll explain what’s included, where extra work may be needed, and what’s required to deliver a premium finish that lasts.

Conclusion

Polishing poor-quality concrete does cost more — but for good reason.

It’s the prep work, attention to detail, and use of proper materials that separate a short-term shine from a long-lasting, durable finish.

If you’re unsure about your concrete’s condition, book a quick inspection with Ausgrind. We’ll give you an honest breakdown so there are no surprises later.