If you’re thinking about giving your concrete or stone floors an upgrade, chances are you’ve come across the terms floor grinding, polishing, and honing. They often get thrown around together, and sometimes even interchangeably, but each process has a distinct purpose and end result.
As specialists in floor grinding, Melbourne’s Structural Services Australia is here to help you understand the difference between these flooring techniques can help you make the right decision for your home or building.
Floor Grinding
Think of floor grinding as the heavy-duty phase of floor refinement. It’s the process that gets things started, especially if the floor is uneven, damaged, or coated in old adhesives, sealers, or paint.
Floor grinding uses industrial-grade machines fitted with coarse diamond-embedded discs. These machines quite literally grind away the top layer of the floor surface, exposing a clean, fresh layer beneath. If you’re working with concrete, this can reveal aggregate underneath, which many people love for that decorative, terrazzo-style look.
When is floor grinding needed?
To level uneven floors
To remove surface damage like cracks, stains, or coatings
To prepare the surface for honing or polishing
This stage is essential when you want a complete floor transformation. It sets the foundation for the next steps.
Floor Honing
Once the grinding is done, it’s time to hone the surface. Honing is all about smoothing things out. Instead of aggressive removal, honing uses finer abrasives to refine the surface texture without making it overly glossy.
This process removes minor scratches and imperfections left behind by the grinding phase and leaves the floor with a matte or satin finish. It’s great for people who love the natural look of stone or concrete but still want a clean, uniform surface that’s easier to maintain.
Why choose a honed finish?
Slip resistance – it’s more grippy than a polished surface
Low to mid-sheen look – ideal for a more natural aesthetic
Great for high-traffic areas, especially in commercial settings
Honing is popular for both indoor and outdoor spaces where too much shine might be a safety concern, or simply not the design vibe you’re after.
Floor Polishing
Polishing is the process that gives floors their beautiful, high-gloss finish. After honing, the surface is further refined with ultra-fine grits and polishing pads, sometimes combined with chemical densifiers or sealers that harden and protect the surface.
The result? A glossy finish that makes your floor look stunning and is surprisingly easy to clean.
What are the benefits of polishing?
Reflective finish that brightens up any space
Resistant to staining and wear
Sleek and modern look, often used in showrooms, retail, and luxury homes
It’s worth noting that polishing isn’t just about aesthetics. A properly polished floor can actually be more durable and lower maintenance over time, especially when sealed correctly.
Which One Do You Need?
The answer really depends on the current condition of your floor, what you want it to look like, and how it will be used.
Sometimes, you’ll need all three processes in a sequence to get the best result.
There’s a bit of art and science in getting floors just right. Whether you’re after the industrial-chic vibe of exposed concrete, the sleek shine of polished stone, or the understated elegance of a honed finish, knowing the difference between floor grinding, honing, and polishing helps you choose the best solution for your space.
Not sure where to start? Professional concrete floor grinding contractors can assess your floor’s condition and guide you on the right combination of processes for your project. With the right approach, your floors can be both functional and beautiful.
Need more help? Reach out to the team at Structural Services Australia for expert advice and high-quality results in floor transformation every time. We’ll help you make your floors look their absolute best! Call 0413 755 256 or enquire online now.
