Is Polished Concrete Flooring Expensive?

Polished Concrete Cost

The cost of getting a polished concrete floor can vary, but it’s good to know what you’re getting into. Generally, you might be looking at anything from £20 to £80 per square meter, depending on a few things. The size of the area, the condition of the existing concrete, and the level of polish you want all play a part in the final price.

If you've got a larger space, you might get a better rate per square meter. But if your existing concrete needs a lot of prep work – say it’s damaged or uneven – then you're looking at the higher end of that cost spectrum. Also, if you're after a high-gloss finish, that requires more work and, therefore, more investment.

It's important to remember that while the initial outlay might seem steep, polished concrete is a long-term player. Its durability means less spending on repairs and replacements down the line. Plus, it's a low-maintenance option, so you'll save on cleaning and upkeep costs. When you balance the upfront cost against the long-term savings and benefits, polished concrete often comes out as a cost-effective flooring choice in the UK.

Expensive speckled polished concrete floor for a living room

Speckled polished concrete floor for a living room

An affordable polished concrete floor for a warehouse.

Cost of Laying a Concrete Foundation

Concrete pouring or laying in the UK can come with its own set of costs, and these vary based on several factors. Typically, you might be looking at prices ranging from about £40 to £120 per square meter. What swings the needle on that cost meter? Well, it's things like the thickness of the concrete, the scale of the project, and any specific requirements like reinforcing materials or complex shapes.

For larger projects, you might find the cost per square meter dipping a bit since you're covering more ground. But if you're after something a bit more bespoke, like a specific finish or adding reinforcing fibers for extra strength, the price will creep up. The location of your project can also play a part – if it's a hard-to-reach area, getting the concrete there might add to the cost.

It's worth keeping in mind that with concrete laying, you're investing in a foundation that's meant to last for years. This isn't a corner-cutting situation; it's about laying down a solid, reliable base for whatever you're building, be it a new home extension or a commercial space. In the long run, investing in quality concrete laying can save money and hassle by reducing the need for repairs or adjustments due to poor initial workmanship.

Cost of Concrete Overlay

The cost of an overlay is often a more budget-friendly alternative compared to a complete floor overhaul. Prices can range from around £25 to £70 per square meter, influenced by factors such as the overlay's design complexity, the condition of the existing floor, and the size of the area being covered. A straightforward overlay on a decently maintained existing floor will be at the lower end of the scale, but if you're going for intricate patterns or colors, or if the existing surface requires significant prep work, the cost will be higher.

Concrete overlays are a smart choice for giving an old or damaged concrete floor a fresh face. They can dramatically change the look and feel of a space without the need for removing and replacing the entire floor. This makes them a practical and cost-effective solution for revitalising your existing concrete, offering a new lease of life to your space with a smaller investment.

A concrete overlay which has then been polished.

The type of flooring that needs to be removed is a major cost determinant. For example, carpet removal tends to be relatively straightforward and less expensive compared to more labour-intensive materials like hardwood or tiles. These materials often require more effort and time to remove, especially if they are firmly adhered to the subfloor. Additionally, if you're dealing with an older concrete layer, the process can be even more complex and costly.

The size of the area from which the flooring is to be removed also directly impacts the cost. The complexity of the job itself can influence the cost. Factors such as the accessibility of the space, the need for careful removal to prevent damage to the underlying surface, and the effort required to clean up any residual adhesives or fasteners can all add up.

Another consideration is the disposal of the old flooring material. After removal, this material needs to be disposed of in compliance with regulations. The cost for disposal can vary, especially if the material requires special handling. For instance, some older materials might contain hazardous substances and need specific disposal methods.

What factors influence the cost of polished concrete?

Factors influencing the cost include the size of the area, the condition of the existing concrete, the level of shine desired, and any decorative elements like stains or dyes.

Is polished concrete more expensive than other flooring options?

Polished concrete can be more cost-effective compared to high-end flooring options like hardwood or tile, but may be pricier than basic carpet or vinyl.

How does the size of the area impact the cost?

Larger areas often benefit from lower per-square-metre costs due to economies of scale, while smaller projects may have higher per-square-foot costs.

What is the cost difference between a basic polish and a high gloss finish?

A basic polish might cost around £2 to £4 per square foot, whereas a high-gloss finish can cost between £4 and £8 per square foot due to the additional labor and materials.

Can I save money by doing part of the polishing process myself?

While DIY can save on labour costs, polishing concrete requires specialized equipment and expertise, so it’s often best left to professionals to ensure a quality finish.

Is polished concrete cost-effective in the long run?

Absolutely. Despite the initial investment, polished concrete is highly durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient, often resulting in lower overall costs over time.

Our team of experts is ready to transform your floors with precision and craftsmanship. Don't settle for ordinary when you can have exceptional. Contact us now for polished concrete floors in England and Wales by emailing us at info@britishconcretepolishing.co.uk or by filling in the form below and our team will get back to you shortly.

How Much does Polished Concrete Cost?