Grind and seal concrete and polished concrete might have a similar look, but there are key differences in their durability and cost which make them ideal for different commercial environments. Find out if grind and seal or polished concrete is best for your space.
Grind and seal concrete
This concrete floor finish uses engineered surface grinders to remove foreign matter from the slab. Then uneven areas of the slab are patched up so the flooring is level. Sometimes a second pass with the grinders is necessary. Then the concrete surface is cleaned thoroughly. A stain of colour may be added at this point. Then a topical sealer is applied. That’s how grind and seal concrete is created.
Polished concrete
Concrete polishing involves the mechanical action of engineered floor grinders using industrial diamonds as an abrasive surface on the concrete. The superb shininess of polished concrete is achieved by honing the surface with finer and finer diamond abrasive grits. Customers can choose what degree of shine they prefer, from 1-4; matte to high gloss.
Should I choose polished concrete or grind and seal concrete?
Grind and seal concrete and polished concrete have different inherent qualities, which may determine the right choice for your commercial project. Below are some features you should consider when choosing which type of floor to use in your facility.
Aesthetics
When you’re weighing up the differences between grind and seal vs polished concrete, you’ll find their appearances are very similar. Though, the processes used to achieve the finish (matte, satin, or gloss) of each concrete type are different. Polished concrete is a mechanical process of using abrasives to hone the floor’s texture. Grind and seal instead uses a topical sealer to get the finish. Grind and seal has a more homogeneous appearance between concrete floors. The look of different concrete that has been polished can vary. Both types of concrete can be stained and are therefore called “stained concrete”.
Durability
When thinking about grind and seal vs polished concrete, one aspect you must consider is the relative longevity of each technique for your floors. Your choice relies upon different factors, such as the type and frequency of traffic and whether your facility is likely to have many spills on the floor. Polished concrete is the more durable of the two types and is excellent for high-traffic areas. It’s resistant to scratches and will last for decades if you keep it well-maintained, which is relatively easy to do. Using grind and seal concrete in high-volume areas is not ideal and will demand annual resealing, which may be more expensive in the long run than having polished concrete in the first place.
Spills
Suppose your commercial space will see frequent spills or stains. In that case, you’re better off with grind and seal floors, as their chemical-resistant polyurethane sealers protect the floor from oil or moisture . Grind and seal concrete will allow for easy cleaning without moisture damage. Restrooms are a prime example of a space in which grind and seal is the better choice. For example, a restaurant could choose polished concrete for the dining areas and sealed concrete for the bathrooms. The similar appearance of polished concrete and grind and seal concrete makes these floors work harmoniously together.
Cost
Polished concrete involves more labour than grind and seal concrete and is more expensive. However, it lasts longer and is more durable in high-traffic areas. Grind and seal concrete is more appropriate for places that are likely to get wet. It can also be seen as a more affordable version of polished concrete.
Get all the help you need with polished concrete and grind and seal
At Floorcon, we have the expertise and experience to provide all the assistance you need in choosing between polished concrete and grind and seal. We will help you determine which process is the right one for you based on the requirements of your floor and usage conditions.
Contact us today to get started.
