How Much Do Polished Concrete Floors Cost?

Polished Concrete Floor Cost Per Square Foot

Polished concrete floors cost $2 to $16 per square foot when the concrete has already been poured, and $6 to $24 per square foot if not. Costs can vary depending on the complexity of the job, the type of concrete used, and whether or not customization or decorative embellishments are added. 

• Basic polished concrete floors: More basic concrete floors use simple colors and finishes. They are usually slightly more matte in appearance and average in cost from $2–$8 per sq. ft. 

• Mid-range polished concrete floors: Floors that feature slightly more gloss, more than one color, or the use of stencils and patterns. They cost an average of $5–$12 per sq. ft.

• High-end polished concrete floors: Uses intricate patterns or designs and boasts many colors. These floors also typically have a highly glossed surface and average in cost from $8–$16 per sq. ft.  

Commercial vs. Residential Polished Concrete Floor Costs

Polished concrete floors in a commercial space differ from those in a residential space. Commercial polished concrete floors like those found in warehouses, showrooms, hotels, and transportation hubs need to be highly durable and prepared to accommodate heavy weight and considerable foot traffic. Often, they also use a higher-strength concrete or must be reinforced in order to hold up. Additionally, they tend to use more intricate details, like staining or stencils, or finishes that make the surface extra durable and easy to clean. Because of this, commercial polished concrete floors cost more than residential installations. 

Polished concrete floors in residential spaces need to be able to support the movement of furniture and appliances and hold up to everyday living. They should be durable, but don’t need the same demanding requirements as commercial floors. They also tend to be simpler, using less intricate designs. All these factors contribute to residential polished concrete floors being less expensive. Smaller spaces can be more difficult for equipment to maneuver in, however, which can drive up labor costs when grinding or polishing.

Cost to Grind Concrete Floor

Grinding smooths a concrete floor and prepares it for polishing. Labor costs to grind concrete floor average $1 to $4 per square foot, but the total cost is dependent on the final desired look. Highly polished floors require more grinding and smoothing, which costs more. A matte finish costs less, as it requires less labor and work.

Polished Concrete Patio Cost

Polished concrete is durable, easy to maintain, and attractive, making it a great option for an outdoor patio. For an average design, polished concrete patios cost $3 to $8 per square foot and up to $16 per square foot for more high-end designs. 

Some may wonder if a polished concrete patio is slippery. It depends on factors such as gloss levels, but generally, the surface is safe, particularly when kept dry. Anti-slip coatings can help with any potential issues. 

Polished Concrete Basement Floor Cost

Polishing a concrete floor in the basement ranges from $3 to $12 per square foot, and total costs will run from $2,100 to $12,000 for most projects. Polished concrete looks great, is mold and mildew resistant, won’t absorb odors, and is easy to clean and maintain, making it a great choice for a basement floor. One drawback: It’s cold and can be hard to stand on, especially for long periods of time.

Other Concrete Finishes

Polished concrete floors can be finished in a number of ways creating various aesthetic looks. Costs vary, based on effort and labor.

Stamping

Stamped concrete is concrete that has been textured or patterned, often to look like stones or tiles. Wood plank stamps can also be used, which, when layered with a proper stain, can give the effect of a wood floor or decking. Basic stamped concrete projects cost between $8 and $12 per square foot, while more complicated designs can go as high as $18 per square foot.  

Staining

Stained concrete ranges from $2 to $15 per square foot, but most homeowners don’t pay more than $10 per square foot. Stains penetrate the surface of concrete, bonding to it for a long-wearing effect, and are typically applied with a sprayer. 

Painting

Paint can be brushed or rolled onto concrete to quickly and easily change its appearance. It’s a cost-effective way to dress up a concrete surface, but it can chip or wear off and will need to be maintained to keep looking fresh. Costs to paint concrete depend on the surface you are painting and the type of paint you select, but they generally range from $2 to $4 per square foot.

Sealing

The average price to seal or coat concrete costs between $1,400 and $2,950. This cost generally includes cleaning and surface prep, though extensive cleaning will likely increase the price. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Concrete Company

Installing a polished concrete floor can quickly become a large project. Grinding concrete to the correct level is time-intensive and complex. There can be issues with the grade of your floor, or you may need to install concrete in the first place, which takes extensive knowledge and skill. A concrete professional is often best suited for the job, and can even give you tips on designs and styles that will enhance your overall look. Contact a local concrete contractor near you to get an estimate.

FAQs

How much is residential concrete flooring?

Most homeowners pay between $3 and $8 per square foot for residential polished concrete flooring. Costs are lower for sealing only or a single layer of polish and higher for intricate designs (up to $16 per square foot or more).

How much does it cost to clean and seal concrete?

Sealing or coating concrete costs between $1,400 and $2,950. This includes cleaning and surface prep, though if extensive cleaning is needed, it will likely increase pricing. 

What are the advantages of concrete floors?

There are very few disadvantages to concrete floors. You might face discoloration, stains, or imprints that happen during pouring, but these disadvantages are rare when working with a professional concrete contractor. 

On the other hand, the advantages of polished concrete floors are many:

• Ease of maintenance: Once your concrete floor is prepared and polished properly, maintenance is simple. Dust mopping is typically sufficient, but wet mopping should also be used on occasion.

• Longevity and eco-friendliness: If properly maintained, polished concrete floors last a long time. Additionally, eco-friendly materials for coloring and treating polished concrete are becoming more readily available for environment-conscious homeowners.

• Economical: Depending on the intricacy of colors and styles you choose, polished concrete is highly economical. You’ll also likely never have to replace it. 

• Resistant to moisture and mold: Unlike hardwood, linoleum, and carpeting, polished concrete is not vulnerable to moisture damage or mold. It can be a great choice for families with allergies or asthma. 

• Versatility: Polished concrete allows a homeowner a remarkable set of options for color and design, and you can use it both indoors and out. 

Is it more affordable to tile a floor or polish concrete?

Polished concrete is significantly more affordable than tile, primarily due to high material and labor costs. Additionally, tile may require leveling before installation, or other unforeseen costs.