Question 1

What does polished concrete external cost per m2 in Adelaide?

Accepted Answer

Polished external in Adelaide runs $225 to $365 per m2 in 2026. For a 60m2 area the total is $13,500 to $22,000. The spread within the range is driven by the grit progression chosen (lower sheen costs less than higher sheen), slip rating requirement, sealer type, and whether the slab is new or existing.

Question 2

Is polishing an existing slab cheaper than a new slab?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Polishing an existing slab requires grinding out any existing surface treatments, old sealer, or contamination before the progressive grit sequence can begin. If the existing slab has surface defects or low spots, the initial grind goes deeper to level them, increasing time and cost. New slabs purpose-poured for polishing are often the more cost-efficient starting point.

Question 3

What does the slip rating compliance cost add?

Accepted Answer

AS 4586 R11 slip rating for pool surrounds adds $5 to $15 per m2 depending on whether the rating is achieved through the sealer choice or requires an additional anti-slip aggregate treatment. A 60m2 pool surround adds $300 to $900 to the total for slip rating compliance.

Question 4

How often does polished external concrete need re-polishing?

Accepted Answer

Re-polish at 8 to 10 years for standard residential use. Penetrating sealer re-application every 3 to 5 years. Annual maintenance is light cleaning and inspection. Polished external is the lowest maintenance decorative concrete finish on a per-year cost basis when the initial stages are executed correctly.

Stage	Process	Cost factor
1. Coarse grind	30 grit, opens surface, levels	$15-$25 per m2
2. Densifier	Chemical hardener (Ashford/Prosoco)	$8-$15 per m2
3. Progressive polish	80, 200, 400, 800 grit sequence	$60-$120 per m2
4. Sealer	Penetrating, UV-stable outdoor	$10-$20 per m2
5. Slip rating	AS 4586 R11 for pool surrounds	$5-$15 per m2

PolishedconcretecostinAdelaide(externalsurfaces,2026)

The 5-stage cost breakdown

Sealer choice and re-polish schedule

Related guides and service pages

Frequently asked questions