For a basic design, polished concrete typically costs between $3 and $5 per square foot. However, if you’re looking for multiple patterns, colors, scoring, or sealing, the price increases from $5 to $15 per square foot.
To learn more about the polished concrete floors cost per square foot in 2025, we’ve compiled all the essential information for you in this article.
Polished Concrete Floor Cost
| Level | Estimated Cost (Per Sq. Ft.) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Finish | $3 – $5 | Minor preparation, a single coat of stain, sanding, and polishing to a moderate shine. |
| Mid-Range | $5 – $8 | Minor repairs, two coats of stain, scoring, sealing, deep sanding, and a high sheen. |
| Premium | $8 – $15 | Surface repairs, custom patterns and designs, staining, stencil work, scoring (arc cuts), faux finishes, sealing, multiple colors, and polishing. |
Cost Per Square Foot To Polish Concrete Floors (By Location)
In areas with high demand for concrete and limited local supply, the concrete floor polishing cost per square foot is higher. Transportation costs for delivering concrete from distant suppliers to the local area also impact the overall price.
Labor costs are generally higher in urban areas, further increasing the total cost of installing polished concrete flooring.
We have provided a detailed list of the costs of installing polished concrete across the country. Be sure to review it.
Polished Concrete Floors Cost by City (Per Square Foot)
| Region | City | Cost per Square Foot (Including Labor and Materials) |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast U.S. | Pawtucket, RI | $5.90 – $10.90 |
| New York, NY | $6.20 – $12 | |
| Southeast U.S. | Dothan, AL | $5.80 – $10.30 |
| Orlando, FL | $5.80 – $10.50 | |
| Atlanta, GA | $5.90 – $10.60 | |
| Midwest U.S. | South Bend, IN | $6 – $11.10 |
| Chicago, IL | $6 – $11.30 | |
| Northwest U.S. | Corvallis, OR | $5.90 – $11.20 |
| Seattle, WA | $6 – $11.20 | |
| Southwest U.S. | Houston, TX | $5.80 – $10.50 |
| Roswell, NM | $5.90 – $10.60 | |
| San Diego, CA | $6 – $11.10 |
Pro Tip: Areas more sensitive to moisture, such as Florida, particularly prefer polished concrete floors.
Cost by Complexity of Design
Polished concrete flooring installation costs vary based on the design’s complexity. Basic designs are more affordable and commonly chosen, while intricate designs tend to be more expensive.
Polished Concrete Flooring Costs by Complexity
| Complexity Level | Average Concrete Floor Cost (Per Square Foot) |
|---|---|
| Basic | $2 – $7 |
| Mid-Range | $5 – $10 |
| High-End | $8 – $16 |
Basic Polished Concrete Floor: This involves applying a layer of stain, typically in simple designs with basic colors. The overall appearance is subdued, featuring straight finishes with a moderate sheen, achieved through polishing and sanding the concrete.
Mid-Range Polished Concrete Floor: This option involves deeper sanding to create a smooth surface, followed by the application of two stain colors to enhance depth and dimension. Additional design elements are added through scouring while sealing ensures durability and protection. The final result features a high sheen, giving the floor a glossy, sophisticated finish.
High-End Polished Concrete Floor: Advanced techniques like scouring, staining, stencil work, and faux finishes are employed to craft cost per square foot to polish concrete floors that resemble works of art, featuring intricate patterns and personalized designs. A high-gloss finish enhances the overall value and elevates the style of the space.
Concrete Finishes and Their Costs
Polished concrete floors come in a variety of finishes, each offering unique looks and textures. The polished concrete flooring cost per square foot of these finishes can vary, so it’s important to consider both your budget and personal preferences when making a decision. Below is a table outlining the prices for different finishes, along with additional details for each option.
Type of Finish and Average Cost per Square Foot
| Type of Finish | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Sealing | $1 – $2 |
| Scoring | $1 – $2 |
| Painting | $2 – $3 |
| Stamping | $3 – $9 |
| Stenciling | $1 – $10 |
| Staining | $3 – $13 |
Sealing: While not a mandatory step in the polishing process, sealing provides extra protection for your floor against chemicals, acids, and tough stains.
Scoring: This process involves using an angle grinder or saw to cut shallow lines into the concrete surface, mimicking mortared joints.
Painting: Painting is an affordable and quick way to update the appearance of your concrete floors. A brush or roller is used to apply the paint, but over time, it may become prone to chipping or peeling.
Stamping: The texture of concrete floors can be stamped in a variety of ways. This decorative technique carves patterns into the surface, creating the illusion of other materials, such as wood, tile, or stone. Wood-look stamping is typically more affordable than stone or tile stamping.
Stenciling: Stencils are flexible materials that can be cut into intricate patterns, which are then imprinted onto the concrete surface to add unique designs.
Staining: Staining is a great way to add color and character to your concrete floors. The cost of stained concrete depends on the number of layers of stain applied; more layers increase the price.
Estimating Costs Based on Area Size
To estimate the cost of installing polished concrete, it’s important to know the size of the area, as the cost depends on it. As the area increases, the required materials and labor also rise, which in turn increases the overall cost per square foot for polished concrete floors.
The cost of installing polished concrete ranges from $6 to $11 per square foot, including materials and labor. For your convenience, we’ve provided different project sizes to help you estimate the polished concrete flooring cost per square foot of your project. Please refer to the table below.
| Project Size | Average Overall Cost | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|---|
| 50 square feet | $300 – $550 | $6 – $11 |
| 100 square feet | $600 – $1,100 | $6 – $11 |
| 200 square feet | $1,200 – $2,200 | $6 – $11 |
| 300 square feet | $1,800 – $3,300 | $6 – $11 |
| 400 square feet | $2,400 – $4,400 | $6 – $11 |
| 500 square feet | $3,000 – $5,500 | $6 – $11 |
Residential Polished Concrete Floor Cost by Project
Residential Concrete Floor Polishing Cost Per Square Foot
| Area | Average Polished Concrete Cost |
|---|---|
| Basement | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Driveway | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Garage | $800 – $4,500 |
| Patio | $600 – $3,200 |
| Kitchen | $500 – $1,800 |
| Bathroom | $200 – $600 |
Benefits of Polished Concrete:
- Low Maintenance: Polished concrete requires very little upkeep while being highly durable. Its versatility also enhances the resale value of a home.
- Variety of Design Options: It offers a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns to suit any aesthetic.
- Hypoallergenic: Polished concrete does not harbor allergens like mold, mildew, dust mites, or rot.
- Cost-Effective: Its lifecycle cost is up to 60% lower than other types of flooring, making it a budget-friendly option in the long term.
Other Factors That Affecting Cost
Below is a comprehensive list of factors that can influence the cost of installing polished concrete floors.
Floor Area and Size
- Odd-shaped floors
- Close, narrow walls
- Doorway openings and room-access challenges
- Built-in furniture
- Basements
- Above-grade floors
Existing Concrete Floor Condition:
Light surface preparation, such as removing dirt, glue, coatings, stains, and grease, is typically included in the estimate. However, extensive repairs to the concrete surface, including fixing cracks, holes, or gouges, can cost between $1 and $3 per square foot.
It is essential to fill and seal cracks with epoxy before polishing.
If your floor is very wavy, in poor condition, extremely porous, or actively heating, it may require extensive sanding. In some cases, it may not be suitable for polishing and might need to be removed and re-sanded.
Removing Your Existing Flooring
The cost of removing and disposing of existing flooring, including labor, ranges from $0.50 to $3.00 per square foot. The final cost depends on the type of flooring being removed and the effort required for its removal. For more detailed pricing information, refer to the table below.
| Flooring Material | Concrete Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Carpet | $0.11 – $0.56 |
| Vinyl or Linoleum | $0.50 – $1.00 |
| Stone, Ceramic, or Porcelain Tile | $1.50 – $4.00 |
| Hardwood or Engineered Wood | $1.50 – $4.50 |
Cost of Grinding a Concrete Floor:
The cost of grinding a polished concrete floor ranges from $1 to $4 per square foot. Grinding, or sanding, removes adhesives and curing agents, opens the pores, eliminates unevenness, and smooths the surface. After that, polishing adds a shine to the surface for $2 to $6 per square foot.
The same equipment is used to grind and polish floors, but the pads differ. The amount of grinding and polishing determines the shine and luster of the concrete floor.
- Achieving a high-gloss finish costs more due to the additional time and effort required.
- Grinding is usually a single pass, while polishing can take up to four passes.
Grinding & Polishing Levels
Level 1 (Highly-Polished):
- Max Reflectivity, 3000 grit, 70-100 reflective clarity, 7 passes.
Level 2 (Semi-Polished):
- High Reflectivity, 800+ grit, 40-69 reflective clarity, 6 passes.
Level 3 (Satin/Honed):
- Low Reflectivity, 100-400 grit, 10-39 reflective clarity, 5 passes.
Level 4 (Flat/Ground):
- Matte Finish, <100 grit, 0-9 reflective clarity, 4 passes.
Polished Screed Floor Price:
The price of polished screed floors ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the condition of the concrete. Screed is a thin concrete overlay poured over a slab to create a smooth, durable, insulating, and protective surface for polishing and grinding.
This screed is made from the same mix as concrete, but with a finer aggregate that creates a smoother texture.
Grade Level (Concrete Floor Polishing Cost Per Square Foot)
The cost per square foot for polished concrete floors is influenced by the grade level of the area or floor. Lower-level installations, such as in a basement, are generally less expensive than higher-level installations, such as in a second-floor bedroom.
This is because higher-level installations typically require cement board underlayment for support or additional structural reinforcement. The cost of installing cement underlayment is approximately $2 to $4 per square foot.
Concrete Cost Repairs
Let’s assume that your existing concrete slab has suffered damage during the installation process. In this case, you may need to budget for additional repairs before polishing it. Such damage can include cracks, discoloration, chips, and uneven surfaces that detract from the beauty of your concrete floor.
A minor repair job, such as patching or filling cracks, can cost between $1 and $3. However, if the damage is extensive, resurfacing may be required, costing $3 to $7 per square foot.
Obviously, this may seem like an unexpected and frustrating repair. However, it is important to ensure the long-term durability and beauty of your finished polished concrete.
Labor (Cost Per Square Foot to Polish Concrete Floors)
The majority of the cost for installing polished concrete—typically ranging from $6 to $11 per square foot—comes from labor, which accounts for approximately two-thirds of the total expense. This is because the concrete cost itself is relatively inexpensive, but achieving a durable and smooth finish requires specialized equipment and expertise. As the labor involved increases, so does the overall cost per square foot to polish concrete floors.
The level of customization you choose for your concrete floor—such as stenciling, painting, or other decorative elements—is entirely up to you. However, the cost per square foot for polished concrete floors will largely depend on the complexity and amount of labor required.
Stained, Stenciled, Stamped and Scored Concrete Floor Cost:
The average cost of staining a polished concrete floor ranges from $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the prep work, size of the job, number of colors, and complexity.
A simple stain costs $2 to $4 per square foot, while multiple layers or colors, custom patterns, and saw cuts cost $10 to $25 per square foot.
Stained Concrete Floors Cost
| Level | Cost Per Square Foot | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| High-End | $12 – $25 | Upgraded design + Stencil designs + Hand-stained finish |
| Upgraded | $8 – $12 | Intermediate design + Complex design elements + Various colors |
| Intermediate | $4 – $10 | One color + Minimal prep + Minimal design + Final sealer |
| Basic | $2 – $4 | One color + Minimal prep + Final sealer |
Any color of concrete floor can be achieved with dyed, stained, colored overlay, or colored ready-mix concrete options. Design or color elements can be added either before the concrete is poured or after it has hardened.
Stamped concrete costs $5 to $12 per square foot and is applied when the concrete is poured. Scored concrete, used to create natural stone, tile, or patterned shapes, costs $1 to $2 per square foot.
Stenciled, Stamped & Scored Concrete Floors Cost
| Option | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Scoring | $1 – $2 |
| Stencil Work | $1 – $10 |
| Acid Etching | $2 – $7 |
| Stamping | $5 – $12 |
| Layering Staining | $18+ |
Sealing Polished Concrete Floors
After sealing, buffing, polishing, and cleaning are required to maintain the seal. The cleaning process depends on whether the sealant is penetrating or topical.
Cost of Polishing Existing Concrete Floors:
The average cost to polish an existing concrete floor ranges from $3 to $15 per square foot, depending on factors such as preparation, complexity, and the size of the job. Additional services like concrete surface design and repair, staining, sealing, and stamping can increase the overall cost by $1 to $10+ per square foot.
| Task | Cost Per Square Foot | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Remove Existing Flooring | $0.50 – $3.00 | Includes scraping and removal, but these are (optional). |
| Light Surface Prep | Included | Light surface preparation includes removing dirt, glue, grease, stains, or coatings. |
| Concrete Repairs | $1.00 – $3.00 | Fill cracks, and remove remaining glue/epoxy, but these are (optional). |
| Screed / Overlay | $2.00 – $5.00 | Resurfacing creates a level, smooth, and protective surface, but these are (optional). |
| Underlay | $2.00 – $5.00 | Cement board underlay for on-grade or above-grade floors, but these are (optional). |
| Grinding | $1.00 – $4.00 | Sands and prepares concrete in a single pass; other costs may be higher depending on the number of passes. |
| Polishing | $2.00 – $6.00 | Gives a glossy finish to the surface over multiple passes. |
| Designs, Scoring, Staining | $2.00 – $25.00 | Patterns, paints, saw cuts, and stencils are (optional). |
| Sealing | $2.00 – $4.00 | Protects against stains, chemicals, and acids, and provides water and skid resistance. (Optional, but recommended.) |
Comparing the Cost Per Square Foot to Polish Concrete Floors vs. Epoxy: What to Expect in 2025
| Polished Concrete Cost | Epoxy Cost |
|---|---|
| $3 – $12 per square foot | $4 – $10 per square foot |
|
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Initial Installation Cost Comparison:
The cost of both flooring options varies depending on the level of customization and the quality of materials used. Generally, the initial cost of installing epoxy floors is higher than that of polished concrete cost, particularly when opting for premium-grade epoxy materials.
Preparation and Material Costs:
Epoxy floors are generally more expensive than polished concrete due to the higher cost of materials and the extensive preparation required. In contrast, concrete floor polishing cost per square foot is more affordable because it utilizes existing concrete slabs, helping to keep costs low.
Labor Considerations:
Both polished concrete and epoxy flooring require professional installation. However, epoxy often demands specialized skills and precise mixing during the application process, which results in higher labor costs.
Cost-Effectiveness and Long-Term Value
Durability and Longevity:
Epoxy flooring can last up to 20 years, depending on usage, while polished concrete can last indefinitely with proper maintenance. For high-traffic commercial areas, polished concrete is the most durable and long-lasting option.
Maintenance Differences:
When it comes to maintenance, epoxy flooring requires more upkeep, including resurfacing every few years depending on wear and tear. In contrast, polished concrete requires less maintenance and can be a more cost-effective option over time.
Polished Concrete Flooring Cost Per Square Foot vs. Alternatives
When comparing polished concrete cost to stained concrete, hardwood, epoxy, tile, carpet, and other flooring materials.
| Material | Cost Per Square Foot | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Polished Concrete | $3 – $15 |
|
| Stained Concrete | $2 – $10 |
|
| Tile Flooring | $10 – $50 |
|
| Hardwood Flooring | $11 – $25 |
|
| Epoxy Flooring | $4 – $10 |
|
| Carpet | $2 – $8 |
|
| Vinyl Flooring | $2 – $10 |
|
Pros and Cons (Polished Concrete Floors Cost Per Square Foot)
Pros
Here are all the benefits of Concrete Floor Polishing Cost Per Square Foot:
- Longevity: With minimal maintenance, polished concrete can last a lifetime.
- Durability: Resistant to pressure, wear, stains, damage, and tire marks.
- Low Maintenance: Requires only wet mopping or dusting—no stripping or waxing needed.
- Cost-Effective: Life cycle costs are up to 60% lower than other flooring options.
- Design Versatility: Offers a range of coating designs and color options.
- Eco-Friendly: LEED-approved materials are available for sustainable coloring and finishing.
- Mold & Mildew Resistant: Hypoallergenic properties prevent allergen buildup and reduce airborne silica from unpolished concrete.
- Enhanced Lighting: Increases light reflection in a space by up to 100%.
- Easy Installation: No need to remove the existing floor to install polished concrete.
- Radiant Heating Compatible: Works seamlessly with radiant heating systems.
- VOC-Free: It is Volatile Organic Compounds free.
- Exceptional Durability: Offers a high level of resistance to wear and tear.
Cons
There are also some disadvantages of cost per square foot for polished concrete floors, which are as follows:
- Not shockproof; anything that falls on it can break or damage it.
- It can be uncomfortable and cold to stand on.
- It amplifies sound.
- It may be slippery when wet if it does not meet or exceed ADA and OSHA standards for slip resistance.
- Not stain-proof – it can be damaged by acid or chemical spills.
- It can crack and chip over time, including hairline cracks.
- It is very susceptible to moisture damage if not properly finished with a densifier, hardener, or sealant.
Other Polished Concrete Flooring Cost per Square Foot
Polished concrete cost is also gaining popularity for walls, worktops, benches, and countertops.
| Item | Concrete Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Cement Laminate Floors | $2 – $8 |
| Polished Concrete Walls | $10 – $60 |
| Polished Concrete Countertops | $60 – $130 |
Floors made from cement blocks resemble concrete floors but are more durable, fireproof, energy-efficient, and less expensive than poured concrete.
Treated Concrete Floors Cost
| Polished | Grind & Seal | Burnished | Epoxy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Shine Level | Very high | Very high | High | Extremely high |
| Durability | Very high | Medium | Low-medium | Low-medium |
| Maintenance | Renew every 10 years – can last a lifetime.
|
Reapply every 1-2 years due to heavy traffic – usually lasts 3-5 years. | Reapply every 1-2 years due to heavy traffic – usually lasts 2-3 years. | If considered in terms of traffic, it can last 15-20 years.
|
| Cost (SF) | $3 – $12 | $3 – $7 | $3 – $12 | $3 – $7 |
| Needs Sealing | Optional but recommended | Yes | Yes | No, epoxy is a sealant |
| Design Variety | High | High | High | High |
| Labor Intensive | Yes, depending on desired finish | Medium | Low | Low |
| Drying Time | If no sealant is used, then none. | 3-8 days, depending on the sealant product used. | 3-8 days, depending on the sealant product used. | Typically 24 hours. |
Pros of Each Concrete
What are the advantages of each type of concrete? All of them are listed below.
Cost Per Square Foot to Polish Concrete Floors:
- Increases light brightness by 100%.
- High-traffic friendly and scratch-resistant.
- Extremely durable and eco-friendly.
- Low renovation polished concrete flooring cost per square foot compared to installation.
Grinding and sealing
- Less expensive to install
- Very low labor costs
- Skid-resistant
Burnished
- Few steps to install
- Skid-resistant
- Low labor costs
Epoxy
- Its reflectivity is very high, with a 300% increase in light.
- Hides defects.
- Acid- and chemical-proof.
- Prevents slipping.
Cons of Each Concrete
What are the disadvantages of each type of concrete? All of them are listed below.
Cost Per Square foot for Polished Concrete floors:
- Not stain- or chemical-resistant
- Inconsistent results in different rooms
- Most labor-intensive and most expensive
Grind & Seal:
- It may need to be re-waxed or sealed 1-2 times a year due to high traffic.
- It is susceptible to worn coatings, scratches, and fogging.
- It may discolor in high-traffic areas.
- Subject to wear and tear (dusting) in high-traffic areas.
Burnished:
- It is difficult to use proper methods for installation.
- It is not suitable for covering up imperfections.
- It has inconsistent patterns on large floors.
- It is not long-lasting.
Epoxy:
- It is not environmentally friendly.
- Can flake, chip, and peel.
- May have pockets of moisture in the air.
- It may need to be reinstalled after 3 years or sooner.
- If reinstalled, it costs more than the initial installation.
Hiring a Concrete Polishing Contractor
Specialized concrete floor contractors have more expertise and experience than general contractors. Experienced contractors ensure that the floor is properly leveled and that the finish is evenly distributed throughout.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a concrete floor contractor:
- Get three to five in-person estimates to compare.
- Ask for recommendations from your family, neighbors, and friends.
- Check their background on Google and HomeGuide, and read their reviews.
- Verify their licensing and insurance to ensure they are up-to-date.
- Choose companies that have been in business for at least five years.
- Get an itemized contract or warranty in writing before the work begins.
- Avoid paying in full or in cash upfront. Instead, create a payment schedule for work completed.
Frequently Asked Questions of Polished Concrete Floors Cost Per Square Foot?
Q1.What is Polished Concrete Floors?
Ans. Polished concrete, also known as mechanically polished concrete (MPC) or bonded abrasive polished concrete, is a cost-effective alternative to other flooring options. The concrete is sanded, stained, polished, and sealed to create a high-gloss finish.
Q2.What is the average cost per square foot for polished concrete floors?
Ans. When searching for a contractor to install your polished concrete floor, keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the design. Here’s a general guide to what you can expect for polished concrete floor cost prices:
- Matte polish: $2.00 to $6.00 cost per square foot for polished concrete floors
- High gloss polish: $3.00 to $6.00 cost per square foot for polished concrete floors
Q3.What is the life expectancy of polished concrete?
Ans. The longevity of polished concrete depends on several factors, such as the quality of installation, proper maintenance, and traffic levels. With proper care, these floors can last for over twenty years. To maintain and extend their lifespan, regular cleaning and periodic re-polishing are recommended.
Q4.Do concrete floors save money?
Ans. Yes, you can save money with concrete floors, as concrete also contributes to better air quality. When used properly, it can help reduce energy bills.
Q5.Does polished concrete increase home value?
Ans. Polished concrete adds value and reduces the time a home spends on the market, making it a modern luxury.
Q6.Why is polished concrete so expensive?
Ans. The polished concrete flooring cost per square foot depends on the level of permeation required for the project. Light permeation is less expensive than heavy permeation. Light permeation with polishing is the most economical option and results in the most beautiful finished floor.
Q7.Is Polished Concrete Waterproof?
Ans. Yes, polished concrete flooring is waterproof. During installation, the sealer and sander create a protective surface that does not absorb water.
Q8.Does polished concrete scratch easily?
Ans. Polished concrete is extremely durable and nearly impossible to scratch. If a scratch does occur, the only way to fix it is by refinishing the floor. For the best results, diamond pads are the ideal material for polishing concrete.
Conclusion:
At the end of this article, we will guide you on how to choose the right flooring option for your space. It is important to understand the cost, durability, and specific features of each option. Epoxy flooring provides exceptional durability and unique decorative possibilities, while polished concrete offers a more cost-effective solution that, with proper maintenance, can be a longer-lasting and more economical investment.
When considering the price, polished concrete may seem expensive, but it offers numerous advantages, as we’ve previously discussed. Its cost tends to be higher in areas with high demand for concrete and limited local supply. Polished concrete floors are available in a variety of finishes, each providing a unique look and texture. Since the cost per square foot to polish concrete floors of these finishes can vary, it’s important to consider your budget, the size of the area, and your personal preferences when making a decision.
If you’d like to learn more about concrete flooring, feel free to contact us or leave a comment below.