The Great Concrete Showdown
It’s one of the most common questions we get at NZ Grinders — “What’s the difference between topical polished concrete and mechanical polished concrete?” And fair enough! They might look similar at first glance, but under the surface, they’re two totally different beasts. Think of them as siblings: one likes the high-maintenance glam life (that’s topical coat), while the other is effortlessly stylish and tough as nails (that’s mechanical polished concrete).
Let’s break it down so you can decide which finish is the perfect fit for your floor.
Grind & Seal: The Quick Makeover
Topical finish polished concrete is like a cosmetic renovation for your floor. We grind back the surface of the concrete to remove imperfections, then apply a topical sealer — either matte, satin, or gloss. It’s faster and cheaper than a full mechanical polish, and it delivers instant wow factor. Its like putting a coat of nail polish lacquer on the floor.
The sealer sits on top of the concrete, protecting it from stains and giving it that glossy finish. But, like all good things, it needs maintenance. Over time, foot traffic and UV exposure can wear the sealer down, meaning it’ll need reapplication every few years.
The Pros
- Lower initial cost.
- Great for garages, cafes, and short-term commercial tenancies.
- Quick turnaround time.
The Cons
- Sealers can wear out over time.
- Needs reapplication every 3–5 years depending on use.
- Can be slippery when wet (though anti-slip options are available).
If you’re after a sleek finish on a budget or need something done fast, topical finish polished concrete might be your hero. But if you want longevity and low maintenance — keep reading.
Mechanical Polished Concrete: The Long-Term Performer
Mechanical polished concrete isn’t just a finish — it’s a process. We mechanically refine the concrete using multiple stages of grinding, honing, and polishing with diamond abrasives. Then we apply a chemical densifier that hardens the surface from within, creating a finish that’s both beautiful and bulletproof.
Unlike topical finish polished concrete, there’s no topical coating sitting on top. The shine comes from the concrete itself, so there’s nothing to peel, flake, or fade. It’s the ultimate “set and forget” flooring solution.
The Pros
- Virtually maintenance-free — no resealing required.
- Highly durable and stain-resistant.
- Long lifespan (decades, not years).
- Incredibly smooth and reflective finish.
The Cons
- Slightly higher upfront cost.
- Longer process time compared to grind and seal.
For anyone looking for a premium, long-lasting surface — from showrooms to living rooms — polished concrete is the clear winner.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Here’s the rule of thumb:
If you need a cost-effective, short-term solution with a great look, topical finish polished concrete is your go-to.
If you want a floor that will last for decades with minimal maintenance, mechanical polished concrete is worth every cent.
At NZ Grinders, we offer both — and we’ll help you choose based on your space, your budget, and your long-term goals. We can even show you samples side by side so you can see (and feel) the difference for yourself.
Ready to Pick Your Perfect Finish?
Whether you want that freshly sealed shine or a long-term polished masterpiece, we’ve got you covered. Our expert team can assess your floor and recommend the best option for your space. Let’s turn your concrete into something extraordinary.
📞 Glen – North Island – 021 434 199
📞 Mike – South Island – 027-755-6676
💬 Contact us today for a free quote and expert advice on whether grind and seal or polished concrete is right for you.