Polished Concrete Grit Sequence Workflow

Steps

1. 1

   Rough Cut (16-25 grit)

   Remove existing coatings, level lippage, and expose aggregate if desired. Use metal-bond segments. Expect heavy dust.

   RPM: 500-700\nPasses: 2-3 cross-hatch\nWet/Dry: Dry with vacuum

2. 2

   Transition (40 grit)

   Refine scratch pattern from rough cut. Switch to transitional metal-bond or hybrid segments. This step determines final quality.

   Pro tip: Skip this step and youll see 25-grit scratches in your final polish. Its the most important pass.

3. 3

   Honing (80-100 grit)

   Begin closing the surface. Switch to resin-bond pads. Apply densifier after this step for best penetration.

4. 4

   Densifier Application

   Apply lithium or sodium silicate densifier. Allow 20-30 minutes to penetrate. Remove excess with auto-scrubber. Wait 24 hours before continuing.

   Coverage: 200-400 sqft/gallon\nDry time: 24 hours minimum\nDo NOT let it dry white on surface

5. 5

   Polish (200-400 grit)

   Resume grinding with resin pads. Surface should feel smooth. Check for consistent sheen under raking light.

6. 6

   Fine Polish (800-1500 grit)

   Achieve satin to semi-gloss finish. Reduce machine speed slightly. Surface should reflect overhead lights.

7. 7

   Burnish (3000 grit)

   Final pass for mirror finish. Optional guard/sealer application after this step. Measure gloss with meter: target 70+ GU.

   Pro tip: Not all projects need 3000 grit. Most commercial floors stop at 800 for a matte professional look.

Tools Required