Guide
Polished Concrete Gloss Levels Explained
From satin matte to mirror gloss, polished concrete comes in distinct gloss levels. Here's how they look and where each fits.
Four practical gloss levels
Polished Concrete comes in four distinct gloss levels, each defined by the final diamond grit:
Satin / Matte (200-400 grit) — Soft sheen, very low reflection. Modern, understated, organic feeling. Hides hand polish marks well. Good for residential interiors where calm matters.
Semi-Gloss (800-1500 grit) — Visible sheen, moderate reflection. Most popular finish — looks polished without being mirror-like. Good for kitchens, living rooms, modern commercial.
High-Gloss (1500-3000 grit) — Strong reflection, clear gleam. Looks like polished stone. Great for showrooms, retail, formal interiors.
Mirror / Burnished (3000+ grit) — Mirror-like reflection. Highest possible polished concrete finish. Premium showrooms, high-end retail, statement spaces.
Which to pick
We bring sample boards in your target gloss range to the quote. The differences are clear in person and hard to perceive from descriptions.
Satin and matte hide imperfections better. Mirror reveals everything. If your slab has minor flaws, satin makes more sense; if it’s pristine, mirror works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gloss level is most popular? +
Semi-gloss (800-1500 grit). Modern look without being mirror-like.
Does higher gloss cost more? +
Yes — additional grit passes mean more time. Mirror finishes cost noticeably more than satin.
Will the gloss wear off? +
Not significantly under normal use. Polished concrete's gloss is mechanical, not coating-based.
Related Service
Learn more about Polished Concrete
Mechanically polished, low-maintenance concrete floors for homes and businesses.
View Polished ConcreteRelated Guides
How Long Does a Polished Concrete Floor Last?
Polished concrete lasts 20+ years residentially and 10-20 years commercially. The slab is the finish — there's no coating to fail.
Is My Existing Slab a Good Candidate for Polishing?
Most slabs polish well. Old, contaminated, or extremely cracked slabs may need overlay first. Here's how to tell.
Is Polished Concrete Slippery or Hard to Maintain?
Polished concrete is no slipperier than tile and easy to maintain with neutral cleaner and occasional reseal.
Polished Concrete Cost per Square Foot in Austin
Polished concrete in Austin typically runs $5-$12 per square foot. Gloss level, slab condition, and dye drive the range.