Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about polished concrete floors
Questions about polished concrete
Can’t find what you’re after? Get in touch and we’ll help you out.
What is the difference between MPC and Grind and Seal?
MPC (Mechanical Polished Concrete) refines, densifies and polishes the concrete slab itself. There’s no topical coating involved, so there’s nothing to wear off, peel or need resealing over time. Grind and Seal works differently — the slab is ground to your chosen exposure level, then a clear sealing coat is applied to the surface to protect it. Both are great options but suited to different situations and budgets.
How do I choose the right finish for my project?
We’ll work through this with you. The right finish depends on how the space is used, the condition of your slab, your budget, and the look you’re after. Once we understand those things, we’ll recommend the system that makes the most sense and explain why. No pressure, just honest advice.
Where is mechanical polished concrete suited?
MPC works well in a wide range of environments. Homes, retail spaces, commercial offices, restaurants, showrooms and industrial areas all suit MPC well. It handles heavy foot traffic better than coated systems and looks great in both residential and commercial settings.
Can you polish wet areas and bathrooms?
Technically yes, but it’s more complicated than the rest of the floor. Falls to drains, waterproofing and setdowns all need to be right, and any solution needs to be assessed and approved by a qualified engineer and building inspector before we can proceed. In renovations this gets even trickier, as the original pour often wasn’t designed with polishing in mind. Where MPC isn’t practical for a wet area, we’ll suggest alternatives that work alongside polished concrete elsewhere in the home.
Can I renovate my old concrete floor?
Yes — and it’s one of the most satisfying results we get. If you’ve got concrete hiding under carpet, tiles or vinyl, there’s a good chance it can be polished. We start with a site inspection to check the slab condition, identify any repairs needed, and give you an honest assessment of what the finished floor is likely to look like. Every old slab has its own character, and most of our renovation clients love the result.
Where do you service?
We’re based in Albury Wodonga and cover most of Southern NSW and North East Victoria. You’ll regularly see us in Benalla, Wangaratta, Bright, Beechworth, Yarrawonga, Wagga Wagga, Corryong and everywhere in between. A bit further afield? Reach out anyway and we’ll see what we can do.
Why should I choose Spec Floors?
We’ve been doing this for over 20 years and we’re genuinely passionate about the work. We’re honest with our clients from the first conversation, we show up when we say we will, and we back our work. We’re also accredited Husqvarna Superfloor installers, which means we use industry-leading systems and know how to get the best from them.
What are exposure levels?
Exposure level refers to how much of the concrete aggregate (the stones in the mix) is revealed during grinding. The three main options are zero exposure (a smooth, creamy surface with no stone visible), partial exposure (a salt and pepper effect with some stone showing), and full exposure (a rich, consistent stone surface). The right level for you depends on your slab, your design preferences and how much grinding is practical given your pour. Check out our Exposure Levels page for more detail and real photos.
Why do you recommend 32 MPa concrete?
A stronger mix supports a better chemical reaction when we apply the densifier during polishing. The result is a harder, more durable surface layer that holds its clarity and finish for longer. Standard 25 MPa can work, but 32 MPa consistently gives a better result and is worth specifying if you’re pouring specifically for polished concrete.
Why are concrete curing periods so important?
Curing is the process of keeping the slab moist so the concrete can keep developing its internal strength. If it dries out too quickly, the near-surface ends up weaker and less able to polish well. The 28-day mark is generally the target for meaningful strength development. Rushing it tends to show up in the finished floor as reduced clarity and durability.
What can I do with outdoor concrete?
For outdoor areas we recommend our Pavilion finish. It’s UV stable, slip resistant and built for exposure to the elements. It looks great alongside polished interior floors and works well for pool surrounds, patios, paths and entertaining areas. Have a look at the Pavilion gallery for some real examples.
What are the advantages of epoxy floor coatings?
Epoxy coatings create a tough, seamless surface that resists oil, water, dust and stains. They’re easy to clean and the reflective finish brightens the space. They’re particularly well suited to garages, workshops, storage areas and factory floors where you want durability and a clean look without the cost of full mechanical polishing.
What information do you need to give a quote?
For new builds, send us your scaled plans, the build address and your contact details. Let us know which areas you want as concrete flooring, your preferred exposure level, sheen and any design ideas you have. We’ll recommend the right system and include slab guidelines and process documentation with your quote.
For renovations, send us your address and contact details and we’ll arrange a time to come out and inspect the slab in person. Fixed price quotes for renovations can only be provided once current floor coverings have been removed and we’ve had a proper look at the concrete.
Still got a question?
We’re always happy to talk through your project. Give us a call or send a message and we’ll get back to you quickly.