Polished Concrete vs. Grind & Seal: Which Flooring Option is Best for Your Space?

When it comes to concrete flooring, two of the most popular finishes in Sydney are polished concrete and grind & seal. Both options give you a modern look, improved durability, and a surface that’s easier to maintain compared to bare concrete. But the real question is: which one is right for your home, garage, or business?

Let’s break it down.

What Is Polished Concrete?

Mechanically polished concrete (MPC) is the premium option when it comes to concrete floors.

The process involves:

• Grinding the surface to the desired stone exposure (full, medium, or minimal).

• Hardening the concrete with a densifier.

• Running through multiple polishing stages (up to 14 steps).

• Finishing with a penetrating sealer.

The result is a sleek, long-lasting, low-maintenance surface that can last decades with minimal upkeep.

Key benefits of polished concrete:

• Extremely durable — ideal for high-traffic areas.

• Low-maintenance compared to other flooring.

• Elegant, modern appearance.

• Long lifespan (15+ years with proper care).

  
  

What Is Grind & Seal?

Grind & seal is a cost-effective alternative to polished concrete.

Here’s how it works:

• The surface is ground back to remove imperfections.

• A topical sealer (acrylic, polyurethane, or epoxy) is applied over the surface.

This process is quicker and more budget-friendly, making it perfect when polished concrete isn’t necessary.

Key benefits of grind & seal:

• Lower upfront cost.

• Can be finished with slip-resistant sealers (great for outdoor or entertaining areas).

• Faster turnaround than full mechanical polishing.

• Provides a clean, modern look.

Polished Concrete vs. Grind & Seal: Key Differences

Feature	Polished Concrete (MPC)	Grind & Seal
Durability	15+ years, very hard-wearing	3–5 years before resealing
Maintenance	Minimal (dust mop, occasional clean)	Requires resealing every few years
Cost	$105–$115 per sqm + $100/corner	Lower upfront cost per sqm
Appearance	High-end, modern, reflective finish	Satin or gloss look (depends on sealer)
Best For	Homes, garages, commercial, industrial	Outdoor areas, budget projects, slip-rated areas

Which Option Is Best for Your Space?

• Homes & Living Areas → Polished concrete for its long-term value and premium look.

• Garages → Polished concrete for durability, though grind & seal works as a budget option.

• Outdoor / Entertaining Spaces → Grind & seal with a slip-rated sealer for safety.

• Commercial & Industrial → Polished concrete for longevity, grind & seal for quick installs or lower budgets.

  
  

Cost Considerations in Sydney

At Ausgrind, our rates are:

• Polished Concrete: $105–$115 per sqm.

• Corner Work: $100 per corner (hand-finished for precision).

  
  

While grind & seal may save you upfront, polished concrete pays off in the long run thanks to its durability and minimal maintenance.

Environmental & Health Factors

We take pride in minimising environmental impact:

• HEPA-filtered dust extraction systems keep the workspace clean and safe.

• Eco-conscious sealers where possible.

• Durable finishes that reduce the need for replacements.

Conclusion

Both polished concrete and grind & seal have their place, depending on your budget, location, and design goals.

If you’re after a high-end, long-lasting finish, mechanically polished concrete is the way to go. But if you need a cost-effective solution for outdoor areas or short-term projects, grind & seal is an excellent choice.

At Ausgrind, we help Sydney homeowners and businesses find the perfect flooring solution for their space.

👉 Contact us today for a FREE quote and bring your concrete floors to life.