Can You Polish Screed Floors? (And Which Types Actually Work)

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Can You Polish Screed Like You Do Concrete?

While polished concrete is popular for its durability and modern look, many people ask whether screed floors can be polished the same way. The answer? It depends on the type of screed you’re working with.

Some screeds can be ground and sealed to produce a smooth, low-sheen or high-gloss finish — but others will crumble, dust, or fall apart under a polisher. This guide breaks down which screeds can be polished, how they compare to polished concrete, and how to prep the surface correctly if polishing is possible.

Which Screed Types Can Be Polished?

  • ✔ Traditional Sand & Cement Screed

    ✅ Can be polished with the right mix and curing — but results won’t be as dense or glossy as concrete. Works best with fine aggregates and dust-proof sealers.
  • ✔ Polymer-Modified Screeds

    ✅ Often polishable thanks to higher strength and reduced porosity. These screeds are more resistant to cracking and dusting when ground and sealed.
  • ❌ Liquid Anhydrite or Flow Screeds

    ❌ Not ideal for polishing. These contain calcium sulphate, which can become dusty or weak when ground — and don’t respond well to densifiers or polishing pads.
  • ✔ Resin-Based or Decorative Screeds

    ✅ Can be polished if installed correctly. Often used in commercial projects for a semi-gloss or satin sheen — usually topped with a clear sealer.
  • ❌ Lightweight or Fibre Screeds

    ❌ These are not suitable for polishing due to low surface strength and inconsistent density — they’ll tear up under a grinder.

Polished Screed

  • Faster to install and cure than concrete in most cases
  • Can still achieve a sealed, smooth surface look
  • Lightweight systems available for upper floors

Polished Screed

  • Not as strong or dense as polished concrete
  • Shine and reflectivity usually lower
  • Limited polishability depending on mix type

Polished Concrete

  • Extremely durable and long-lasting finish
  • Can be polished to a mirror-like shine
  • Works well with densifiers and colour dyes

Polished Concrete

  • Longer curing time and heavier install
  • More expensive to pour, grind and polish
  • Not ideal for suspended or upstairs floors

✔ How to Prepare a Screed Floor for Polishing

  1. 1

    Allow Screed to Fully Cure and Dry

    The screed must be cured and completely dry before polishing. Depending on thickness, this could take 3–6 weeks or more. Use a moisture meter to ensure readings are below 75% RH before grinding.

  2. 2

    Test Surface Hardness First

    Lightly scratch the surface. If the screed powders or feels soft, it won’t polish well. You may need to apply a densifier or surface hardener first — or choose a sealed finish instead.

  3. 3

    Start Grinding with a Coarse Pad

    Use a heavy-duty grinder starting with 50 or 80 grit. If the surface holds up, step up gradually to 400–800 grit for a satin finish, or 1500+ for high gloss. Be prepared to stop early if dusting or tearing occurs.

  4. 4

    Seal with a Suitable Product

    Finish with a breathable concrete sealer or lithium-based densifier, depending on the screed type. This locks in the surface, boosts durability, and enhances appearance. Avoid acrylic sealers unless compatible.

🔹 Can you polish DIY screed?
It’s risky. Unless the mix was designed for polishing and cured properly, most standard DIY screeds are too soft and dusty to polish effectively. You’re better off using a sealer or topping system.
🔹 Is microcement the same as polished screed?
No — microcement is a decorative overlay applied over screed or concrete. It’s polished during install and sealed for a smooth finish, but it’s not the same as grinding an in-situ screed slab.
🔹 What grit do I need to polish screed?
Start low (50–80 grit) and step up slowly. Many screeds don’t tolerate more than 400–800 grit before failing. Always test in an inconspicuous area first to check durability.

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