Does Polished Concrete Get Too Hot in Direct Sun?

How Hot Does Polished Concrete Really Get?

Polished concrete is dense, durable, and sleek — but in direct sunlight, it can heat up fast. Outdoor surfaces and rooms with full-height glazing are especially prone. Whether it becomes “too hot” depends on the surface colour, finish, and the environment. Here’s what to expect, and how to keep things cool underfoot.

Why Concrete Heats Up in Sunlight

Concrete absorbs and retains heat due to its density and mineral makeup. Polished finishes — especially darker ones — reflect less sunlight and hold more radiant energy, which can make surfaces hot to the touch by mid-afternoon in summer.

Darker colours absorb more heat than lighter ones
Polished and sealed surfaces reflect less than raw concrete
Low shade or full-sun exposure amplifies heat gain

Where It Becomes an Issue

Most indoor polished concrete won’t get uncomfortably hot, even in glazed areas — but outdoor patios, pool surrounds, and rooftop slabs can reach high temperatures. Barefoot use or pet comfort is often the concern, not just surface durability.

Outdoor terraces, south-facing patios
Glass-wrapped extensions with minimal shade
Pool decks with polished or sealed finishes

How to Keep Polished Concrete Cool

You don’t need to give up polished concrete — just choose the right finish and design features. Lighter colour dyes, anti-slip additives, and strategic shading (pergolas, awnings, planters) help keep surface temperatures down. For outdoors, some clients opt for honed or brushed finishes instead of high-gloss polish.

Choose lighter colours and low-gloss finishes
Use shading elements or partial covers
Consider honed or semi-polished alternatives outdoors
Add anti-slip treatment if using near pools or barefoot zones

Indoor Polished Concrete

Stays cool in shaded or partially glazed spaces
Thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperature
Suitable for underfloor heating

Can warm up near large glass in summer
Glossy finishes may reflect glare

Outdoor Polished Concrete

Durable and visually consistent with interior floors
Good weather resistance when sealed properly
Minimal maintenance required

Can get hot under direct sun, especially in dark tones
Polished finish may be slippery when wet

Factor	Effect on Heat
Surface Colour	Darker tones absorb more heat
Gloss Level	Gloss holds and reflects light; matte stays cooler
Sun Exposure	Direct midday sun increases surface temp significantly
Surrounding Shade	Trees, awnings, and pergolas reduce temperature
Airflow	Open areas dissipate heat faster than enclosed ones

Is polished concrete too hot to walk on in summer?

In outdoor full-sun areas, yes — it can become hot underfoot, especially in dark finishes. Indoors or shaded areas stay much cooler. For outdoor installs, lighter colours and shaded layouts are best.

What’s the best finish for outdoor concrete in sunny areas?

Honed or brushed concrete is often better outdoors. It still looks sharp, but with less gloss and heat retention than full polish. It’s also safer around pools or barefoot paths.

Can colour choice really affect the temperature?

Definitely. Dark greys and charcoals absorb significantly more heat than light beige or stone tones. If heat is a concern, stay light and matte.

Can you cool down polished concrete after it’s installed?

You can’t change its thermal mass, but you can reduce surface heat with shading, misting systems, or applying a cooler-toned microtopping over the top. Anti-slip coatings may also help reduce surface contact heat.