The Difference Between Honing and Polishing

Understand the visual, practical, and maintenance differences between honed and polished stone finishes before restoring your floor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between honing and polishing stone?
Honing leaves a smooth matte or satin surface, while polishing creates a higher-gloss reflective finish using finer diamond abrasives.
Which finish is better for a stone floor?
There is no single best finish. A polished finish offers strong reflection, while a honed finish gives a more understated appearance and may suit areas where a less reflective surface is preferred.
Can an existing stone finish be changed?
In many cases, professional honing or polishing can change the appearance of a stone surface. The stone type, existing finish, damage, and desired result should be assessed first.