Aggregate Exposure: Cream, Salt-and-Pepper and Full Aggregate
How deep we grind decides what you see: smooth cream, fine specks or bold stones.
- Finishes & Color
- Florida
- Free estimate
The look of polished concrete depends on how much of the surface is ground away. A light grind keeps a smooth cream. A deeper cut reveals the fine sand and small stones known as salt-and-pepper. A deeper cut still exposes larger aggregate for a terrazzo-like effect.
The choice is made before grinding because it cannot be reversed. The concrete mix, finishing and depth of the slab all influence what is possible, so we test.
Three common looks
Cream: a smooth, uniform paste finish. Salt-and-pepper: fine sand and tiny stones visible. Full aggregate: larger stones exposed across the floor.
What decides it
The mix and the finishing of the slab. Some slabs have little aggregate near the surface; others have a lot. We check spot tests so you know what is possible before choosing.
Raw slab to polished floor.
From first call to finished floor.
The steps for aggregate exposure, in the order they happen.
- 01
Test the slab
A test patch shows what is possible.
- 02
Choose depth
We pick cream, salt-and-pepper or full aggregate.
- 03
Grind to depth
Controlled cutting reaches the look.
- 04
Densify and polish
The finish brings up the shine.
Is it right for your floor?
A good fit when
- You want a specific aggregate look
- You like terrazzo-style floors
- Your slab has attractive stone
- You prefer a natural look
Worth knowing
- Deeper exposure removes more surface
- Cannot be undone
- Slab uniformity affects the result
- Spot tests are needed
Good questions about aggregate exposure.
Which exposure is best?
It is a matter of taste and slab. Salt-and-pepper is a common balance.
Does exposure affect cost?
Deeper exposure takes more passes.
Can I change my mind?
Not after grinding. That is why we test first.
Related services.
P-01PolishingConcrete Floor PolishingDiamond-ground, densified and polished in steps until the slab you already have shines like glass.See the service 
F-05Finishes & ColorSaw-Cut Patterns & LogosLines, grids, borders and logos cut into the slab for a floor that is part of the design.See the service 
F-04Finishes & ColorConcrete Dye & ColorFrom warm sand to deep ocean blue: color that soaks into the slab and shines through the polish.See the service 
P-01Prep & RepairDiamond GrindingThe step that decides the result: grinding the surface flat, clean and ready.See the service Guides that help you decide
Aggregate Exposure: Cream, Salt-and-Pepper and Full AggregateThe three classic looks of polished concrete and what decides which one you get.2 min read 
Polished Concrete Color and Design IdeasNeutral, bold, warm and cool: ways to make a slab your own.2 min read 
Concrete Polishing Grit Guide: What the Numbers MeanMetal-bond to resin, 30 to 3000: how grit numbers translate into scratch, sheen and clarity.2 min read