Quick Answer

Polishing looks simple but the results depend on the order and the tooling. Deeper scratch marks require a stepped re-burnish: 200–400# resin to cut the scratch mark out, then 800–3000# to restore the mirror finish. Light scratch marks on glossy concrete frequently buff out with a burnishing pad or a fine resin pad (1500–3000#) at high speed.

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About Judge the Scratch Depth First

Key points for the polishing sequence.

• Surface haze / light scuffs — burnishing pad or 3000# resin, high speed.
• Visible line scratch marks — resin re-burnish from 400# up.
• Deep gouges (fingernail catches) — metal-bonded matrix cut, then full resin sequence, or fill.

This stage decides how much reflection the floor finally shows.

The Buff-Out Method (Light Scratches)

What matters most in this stage.

Burnishing pads are the first-line tool for scuff stripping on burnished floors.

• Clean the area thoroughly.
• If haze remains, follow with 3000# resin, then burnish again.
• Run a burnishing pad on an auto-scrubber or planetary grinder at 1000–2500 rotations per minute.
• Work in overlapping passes; inspect mirror finish periodically.

Miss this step and the gloss will not come up evenly.

Deep Scratch Repair

The practical details.

• Rebuild the sequence: 400 → 800 → 1500 → 3000.
• Apply a light densifying sealing layer re-coat if the cut exposed new surface.
• Cut the scratch mark with 200–400# resin (or 100# metal-bonded matrix for deep gouges).
• Finish with a burnish pass.

Crews that rush this part rarely get a mirror finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it possible to every scratch be buffed out?

A: For most jobs, No — scratch marks that have cut through the densified surface down to aggregate may require abrading and re-burnishing, and structural gouges may require filler.

Q: Is the floor likely to burnishing damage the polished finish?

A: In short, No — burnishing is designed to restore mirror finish. Use a clean, appropriate pad and steady passes.

Q: How do I prevent scratches on polished concrete?

A: The practical answer is, Use floor mats at entries, felt pads under furniture, and regular cleaning with a soft-bristle or auto-scrubber. Keep grit stage off the floor.

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Conclusion

Work the sequence completely and the surface rewards you with a clean, bright gloss. Match the repair to the scratch mark: burnish light marks, re-burnish visible lines, and fill or abrade deep gouges.