While simply polishing concrete, as opposed to coating, offers aesthetic benefits and cost savings, there are also some downsides to consider.

Here are some of the potential drawbacks of simply polishing concrete:
Limited aesthetic options: Polished concrete offers a relatively limited range of aesthetic options compared to using coatings like epoxy or urethane polished concrete flooring solutions. While you can achieve different levels of sheen and expose aggregates within the concrete, you might not have the same degree of customization in terms of color, patterns or textures as you would with these coatings.
Susceptibility to stains: Polished concrete, especially if not properly sealed, can be more susceptible to staining from spills, chemicals and other substances. Certain stains might be difficult to remove, potentially affecting the appearance of the polished surface.
Scratch sensitivity: Highly polished concrete surfaces can show scratches and scuffs more prominently, especially in high-traffic areas or environments with abrasive materials. This can require more maintenance to keep the surface looking pristine.
Cold and hard surface: Concrete is inherently cold and hard, and while polishing can slightly mitigate this aspect, it still retains these properties. In certain environments, such as residential spaces or areas where comfort is important, additional measures like rugs or floor coverings might be needed to make the surface more comfortable.
Time and cost: Polishing concrete can be a time-consuming process, requiring multiple steps of grinding and polishing to achieve the desired finish. Additionally, while it might be less expensive than some other flooring options, the cost can still add up due to the labor and equipment involved, and the required downtime.
Surface imperfections: Polishing concrete can highlight existing surface imperfections such as cracks, chips or uneven areas. These flaws might become more apparent as the surface becomes smoother and more reflective.
Limited resistance to chemicals and moisture: Polished concrete alone might not provide sufficient protection against chemical spills or moisture infiltration, potentially leading to deterioration over time. Epoxy and urethane polished concrete flooring solutions coatings can provide a better barrier in such cases.
Varying concrete quality: The final appearance of polished concrete can vary based on the quality and composition of the original concrete slab. If the concrete is not of high quality, achieving a consistent and desirable finish might be more challenging.
Maintenance requirements: While polished concrete is generally easy to clean and maintain, it still requires regular maintenance to preserve its appearance. Regular cleaning, occasional resealing and ongoing care might be needed.