Find the Best Concrete Grinding Contractors Near You

Concrete grinding is the process of smoothing down rough concrete surfaces to reveal a smooth and shiny surface. It involves using heavy-duty concrete grinding machines equipped with diamond-impregnated discs, similar to sandpaper, which are used to grind down the concrete's surface to the desired level of smoothness and shine.

This process is used for removing old coatings, preparing the surface for new flooring installations, levelling out uneven surfaces, and polishing concrete floors. The grinder's discs rotate at high speeds to chip away at the concrete, while a vacuum system can be used to manage the dust produced.

Concrete grinding ensures that concrete floors are in perfect condition. Aside from giving a concrete surface an even and smooth finish making it easier to install flooring alternatives, concrete grinding is also used for several other tasks. The grinding process can be used to remove paint and expose unwanted remnants on the concrete.

The time it takes to grind a concrete floor depends on the size of the floor. In some cases, concrete grinding a 400 square feet garage floor can be done in about two to four hours. The condition of the concrete floor can also prolong the procedure. It is best to hire a professional concrete grinding contractor for this project as they can provide a quality and efficient result.

It is advisable to seal the concrete after grinding as it protects the concrete from spills, stains and damages. There are different types of concrete coatings to choose between including epoxy, acrylic or urethane. This can also give your floor a glossy or matte finish depending on the brand of sealant you choose.

Here’s a clear breakdown of concrete grinding costs per square metre:

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Type of finish: Polished or decorative finishes cost more.
• Floor condition: Cracks, patches, or unevenness increase prep time and cost.
• Area size: Small areas may have higher per-m² rates due to setup time; large jobs may get discounts.
• Accessibility: Stairs, landings, or tight spaces raise costs.
• Preparation work: Repairs, leveling, or underlayment installation add to price.

Find out more about concrete grinding costs here.

Aside from concrete grinding, iseekplant also offers different concrete services with the help of our nationwide network of contractors and companies. These services include concrete drilling, concrete sawing and concrete cutting.

iseekplant has a nationwide network of quality concrete grinding companies operating in all Australian capital cities from Brisbane to Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne to Darwin, Perth and Adelaide. We also offer concrete grinding hire solutions in all major towns and cities from Cairns down to Townsville, Gold Coast, Bendigo and Geelong.

Looking for the best concrete grinding companies? The easiest way to get a quote for concrete grinding services in your area is to use the iseekplant get a quote tool. Simply tell us where you need a contractor and we’ll give you the best quotes available. You can also call us on 1300 691 912 or email us at projects@iseekplant.com.au.

Investing in a concrete grinder is worth it for several reasons, especially if you're working on projects that require smooth, level concrete surfaces or the removal of paint, coatings or residue. Concrete grinders can significantly enhance the appearance of a concrete floor, making it more aesthetically pleasing and suitable for further treatments or coatings. They are also essential for preparing surfaces for epoxy coatings or floor tiles, ensuring they adhere properly and last longer.

For businesses or individuals frequently dealing with concrete surfaces, owning a grinder saves time and money in the long run by avoiding rental costs and ensuring you always have the right tool for the job. However, for one-time or infrequent projects, hiring a concrete grinding company from a reliable supplier like iseekplant might be a more cost-effective solution, providing access to hundreds of concrete grinders without the need for a full investment.

Grinding hard concrete requires the right equipment, techniques and understanding of the concrete. The best way to grind hard concrete is by using a diamond grinding wheel or disc, which is specifically designed to cut through tough materials. Opting for a grinder with a high-powered motor will also improve efficiency and effectiveness in grinding hard concrete.

Using the appropriate coarseness of the diamond segments is crucial: softer concrete requires a coarser segment, while hard concrete benefits from a finer segment to prevent glazing and inefficient grinding. Additionally, maintaining a consistent and appropriate pressure on the grinder will ensure even grinding without causing damage to the surface. Wet grinding can also be beneficial for hard concrete, as it reduces dust and can help the grinder move more smoothly over the surface.

After grinding, concrete surfaces typically appear smoother, more uniform and are often lighter in colour. The grinding process removes imperfections, stains and coatings, revealing a fresh layer of concrete beneath. Depending on the level of grinding performed, the surface can range from a matte to a glossy finish, with varying degrees of aggregate exposure.

For a more polished look, finer grits can be used to achieve a shinier surface. It's also common for grinding to leave behind patterns or swirls, which can be part of the desired aesthetic or further refined. Properly ground concrete is ideal for applying finishes, stains, or sealers, enhancing both its appearance and durability.

While DIY concrete grinding projects are possible, the process requires skill, precision and safety precautions. Professional concrete grinders have the experience, equipment and knowledge to efficiently handle the job and manage risks, such as uneven grinding or damaging the concrete surface.

A DIY approach might be feasible with the right tools and safety gear for small, simple tasks. However, hiring a professional is recommended for larger projects, complex surfaces or high-quality finishes to ensure the best results and avoid costly mistakes.

Concrete grinders come in various types and sizes, from hand-held angle grinders for small jobs or hard-to-reach places to large walk-behind machines used for grinding wide surface areas. Hand-held grinders are suitable for edges and corners, while walk-behind models are used for larger floors and outdoor spaces. Disc attachments are also available for various purposes, such as coarse grinding, fine polishing, or removing specific coatings. The choice of grinder depends on the project's size, the concrete's condition and the desired finish.

Here’s a concise comparison of grinding vs. polishing concrete:

In short:

• Grinding = removes material, smooths, or preps the concrete.
• Polishing = refines concrete into a finished, glossy, and durable surface.

Yes, old concrete can be ground and polished, and it’s a popular way to refresh worn or unattractive floors. The process essentially transforms an existing slab into a new, smooth, and durable surface, though the final appearance depends on the slab’s condition.

How Old Concrete is Ground and Polished

1. Inspection & Prep: Professionals assess the slab for cracks, damage, stains, or old coatings. Any loose debris or adhesives are removed.
2. Grinding: Coarse diamond abrasives are used to level the surface and remove imperfections.
3. Honing: Progressively finer grits smooth the surface further, refining scratches left by the coarse grinding.
4. Polishing: Diamond-encrusted tools polish the surface to the desired sheen—from matte to high-gloss.
5. Sealing & Densifying: A concrete densifier or sealer is applied to strengthen the surface, enhance shine, and protect against stains and wear.

Considerations

• Condition of the slab: Deep cracks, stains, or old patches may remain visible.
• Cost: More grinding or higher gloss finishes increase the price.
• Alternatives: Severely damaged slabs can sometimes be overlaid with new concrete for a fresh surface.
• Professional assessment: Essential for predicting the achievable finish and minimizing surprises.

In short, even older concrete can become a polished, attractive, and durable floor—but the existing slab sets limits on perfection.

Concrete grinding time varies widely depending on the size, condition, and finish desired. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Factors Affecting Grinding Time

• Area size: Bigger floors take longer.
• Concrete condition: Older, harder concrete or surfaces with adhesives, coatings, or stains require more passes.
• Desired finish: Basic grinding is faster; polishing to high-gloss takes more time.
• Equipment & crew: Larger machines and teams can speed up the process for commercial jobs.

Estimated Timeframes

So, a small residential job can often be completed in a day, while full-scale commercial polishing might take a week or longer depending on complexity.

Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on preparing a concrete surface for grinding:

1. Safety First

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and a respirator or dust mask.
• Ventilation: Ensure the area is well-ventilated. Use dust extraction or vacuums to control airborne concrete dust.

2. Assess Moisture

• Moisture Test: Especially important before sealing or polishing. Excessive moisture can prevent proper adhesion and cause discoloration or sealer failure.

3. Clean the Surface

• Remove debris and dirt: Sweep, vacuum, or pressure-wash the area.
• Degrease: Any oil or grease stains should be cleaned with a degreaser for a uniform grind.

4. Remove Existing Coatings

• Paint, epoxy, sealers, adhesives: Use a low-grit diamond grinder or shot blasting for thick coatings.
• Goal: Expose bare concrete and achieve the right surface profile (CSP) for grinding/polishing.

5. Repair Damage

• Cracks, chips, and holes: Patch with suitable repair compounds and allow full curing before grinding.
• Level high spots: Grind down uneven areas to create a flat, uniform surface.

6. Final Preparation

• Feather edges: Ensure repaired or patched areas blend smoothly with the surrounding floor.
• Clean dust: Vacuum the floor thoroughly before starting the grinding process.

7. Timing for New Concrete

• Cure first: Wait at least 28 days for new slabs to fully cure before grinding or sealing.