What are polished concrete grind levels?
Grind levels refer to the standardized stages of concrete polishing that determine how much of the concrete surface is removed and which aggregates are exposed, measured by grit progression from coarse to fine.
Grind levels are the standardized classifications that describe how far into a concrete slab a polishing process goes, with each level defined by the grit of the diamond abrasive used and the depth of material removed. Contractors across Ontario use this system to set client expectations and quote jobs consistently.
The three primary finish classifications are:
- Cream: The initial pass that removes the top layer of concrete and any sealer, exposing only a light cream-colored surface with no aggregate visible. This is the shallowest level.
- Salt and pepper: Medium-depth grinding that exposes small pebbles and aggregate throughout the surface, creating the speckled appearance that gives this level its name. Typically achieved through 70-grit to 120-grit progression.
- Aggregate exposure: Deep grinding that reveals the full size of stones and larger aggregate, usually reached by progressing through 220-grit and higher. This produces the most dramatic visual effect.
Beyond these main stages, some projects continue to 400-grit, 800-grit, or 1500-grit for increasingly refined, glossy finishes. The choice of grind level affects durability, slip resistance, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Knowing your target level helps concrete polishing providers deliver the exact finish you need without over or under-processing the floor.