Polished Concrete Cost – Factors That Influence Price Per Square Foot

Polished concrete is a cost-effective and durable flooring option for commercial and industrial spaces. It is important to understand the factors that influence price per square foot before making a decision.

The state of the existing concrete is a major factor in determining costs. Holes and other damage require repairs, which add to labor and material costs.

Cost of Materials

The raw materials required for polished concrete can cost anywhere from $2 to $16 per square foot, depending on the design. The cost of the materials used is much lower than other options, such as tile, hardwood flooring, LVT/VCT or terrazzo.

Grinding the floor to remove any existing adhesives, coatings or stains can add $2 to $4 per square foot. This step is needed for both new and old floors, as well as any floors that need extensive preparation to achieve a smooth, even surface.

Staining the concrete with a paint or water-based stain typically costs between $2 and $15 per square foot. This option offers more color variety and structural consistency than acid etching stains. It’s popular with homeowners looking for a concrete stain that has an organic or “salt-and-pepper” appearance. It also works well for walls, countertops and work benches. For a high-end finish, stenciling and patterns can be added. The concrete can then be honed and sealed to produce a glossy finish that will resist scratches, dirt and scuffing.

Cost of Labor

The cost of labor to grind and polish concrete floors plays a significant role in overall flooring costs. The level of shine desired determines the amount of grinding required, and each additional step in the polishing process increases costs.

The current condition of the concrete surface also impacts costs. Concrete surfaces that are uneven, coated with existing layers of paint or adhesives or heavily soiled may require extra work to prepare them for the polishing process. This can increase labor and material costs.

Larger commercial spaces tend to have lower polishing costs than smaller residential spaces because they offer more room for larger equipment and fewer obstacles to work around. However, even small residential spaces can still be costly, as multiple rooms equate to more edges and doors to work around, requiring the use of smaller handheld equipment. Environmental factors like temperature and humidity may also add to labor and materials costs.

Cost of Preparation

In addition to polishing, a concrete contractor may also need to install an underlayment or structural reinforcement. This adds $2 to $5 per square foot to the total cost of the project.

Since polished concrete floors can last for decades with minimal upkeep, it’s usually a more affordable choice than other flooring options like tile, carpet, luxury vinyl tiles/vinyl composite tile (LVT/VCT), and terrazzo. However, the upfront costs are still higher than drywall or hardwood flooring.

In residential spaces, the floors must be able to support furniture and appliances while looking beautiful. In contrast, commercial spaces don’t need as much durability. The size of the floor also influences the overall cost. Larger projects often benefit from economies of scale, lowering the cost per square foot. Smaller spaces, on the other hand, can be harder for equipment to maneuver in, driving up labor costs. In either case, the total area of the floor should be factored into the overall cost.

Cost of Finish

Polished concrete is increasingly popular as a flooring option in industrial and commercial spaces due to its durability, low maintenance cost, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. It’s also becoming more popular on walls, countertops, and worktop benches.

A protective sealant creates a barrier that guards the concrete surface against moisture, oil, and chemicals. This process requires grinding the concrete to help the sealant stick and fixes any surface flaws, resulting in a smooth finish.

Although it has a high gloss and is reflective, polished concrete can be slippery when wet. This can pose a safety hazard in areas that are prone to spills and may require specialized cleaning products or equipment. It also limits design options. In addition, the concrete may need to be re-polished regularly. This can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially in active industrial environments. It’s important to consider these factors when choosing a floor material for your project.

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