At Superfloor Australia, we often get asked: “How much for polished concrete floors?” It’s a common question, but the answer isn’t always straightforward.
Polished concrete flooring costs can vary widely based on several factors, including project size, existing concrete condition, and desired finish level.
In this post, we’ll break down the key elements that influence pricing and provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect when budgeting for your polished concrete floor project.
What Impacts Polished Concrete Floor Costs?
Project Size: A Key Cost Factor
The size of your project area significantly influences the final price of polished concrete floors. Larger spaces generally benefit from economies of scale, which means the cost per square foot decreases. However, smaller spaces may have higher per-square-metre costs. This price difference occurs because setup time and equipment costs spread over a larger area in bigger projects.
Existing Concrete Condition: Foundation Matters
The state of your existing concrete can dramatically affect your budget. A smooth, structurally sound surface requires minimal preparation, which keeps costs down. However, cracked, uneven, or contaminated concrete surfaces need additional work. This extra labour could involve repairs, grinding, or even applying a new layer of concrete (all of which add to the final bill).
Finish Level and Shine: Polishing to Perfection
Your desired level of polish impacts the price significantly. A basic grind and seal finish offers the most budget-friendly option. For a higher-end look, mechanically polished concrete can cost approximately $100 per square metre and may increase based on the level of complexity involved. The number of grinding steps, the type of diamond abrasives used, and the level of shine all contribute to the cost. A high-gloss finish requires more labour and finer grinding, thus increasing the price.
Site Accessibility and Location: Logistics Count
The location of your project and its accessibility affect labour costs and equipment transportation. Remote areas or sites with limited access may incur additional charges. For instance, if a site lacks three-phase power, additional equipment might be necessary.
In urban areas like Brisbane, costs might be slightly higher due to increased labour and transportation expenses compared to rural locations. However, this increase often balances out due to the availability of skilled professionals and equipment.
Understanding these factors helps you better estimate and plan for your polished concrete flooring project.
While initial costs matter, it’s essential to consider the long-term value. Polished concrete floors offer durability and low maintenance requirements, often making them a cost-effective choice over time. Now, let’s explore the average cost ranges for different types of polished concrete floor projects.
What’s the Price Tag on Polished Concrete Floors?
Residential Project Costs
For homeowners in Brisbane, polished concrete flooring typically costs between $50 and $65 per square metre. This price variation depends on factors like the existing concrete condition and the desired finish. A basic grind and seal job might start at the lower end, while a high-gloss mechanically polished floor with intricate designs could reach the upper limit.
Most residential projects fall in the $50 to $65 per square metre range for a quality finish that balances aesthetics and durability.
Commercial and Industrial Costs
Commercial and industrial spaces often require more robust solutions due to higher foot traffic and potential exposure to chemicals or heavy machinery. These projects typically cost from $50 to $65 per square metre.
The range accounts for varying project sizes and complexity. A large, open warehouse might cost less per square metre due to economies of scale, while a retail space with intricate designs and multiple rooms could be more expensive.
Cost Comparison with Other Flooring Options
When compared to other flooring materials, polished concrete often proves to be a cost-effective choice, especially when considering long-term value. Here’s how it compares:
- Carpet: $30-$150 per square metre (requires frequent replacement)
- Timber: $60-$300 per square metre (needs regular maintenance)
- Tiles: $50-$250 per square metre (grout lines can be high-maintenance)
- Epoxy: $30-$150 per square metre (may need reapplication every few years)
While the initial cost of polished concrete might exceed some options, its longevity and low maintenance requirements often result in significant savings over time.
Unlike carpet or timber, polished concrete doesn’t need replacement every few years, and it doesn’t have grout lines that require regular cleaning like tiles do.
Additional Benefits and Savings
Polished concrete’s reflective properties can reduce lighting costs in commercial and industrial settings. This benefit, combined with its durability, makes it an attractive option for many property owners who want to balance upfront costs with long-term value.
The cost of polished concrete floors represents just one aspect of the decision-making process. To fully understand the investment, it’s important to consider additional costs that might arise during the installation and maintenance of your new floor. Superfloor Australia offers competitive pricing to ensure you get the best value for your money, without compromising on quality.
Hidden Costs of Polished Concrete Floors
Concrete Repair and Preparation
The condition of your existing concrete impacts the final cost significantly. Floors with cracks, unevenness, or contamination require repairs before polishing can start. These repairs can add to your project cost, with basic approaches starting at around $50 per square metre.
In severe cases, where the existing concrete cannot be repaired, a new concrete overlay might be necessary. This can cost an additional $50 to $100 per square metre. We recommend you factor in a contingency budget for potential repairs to avoid surprises.
Colour and Design Enhancements
While a natural concrete look is beautiful, many people choose colour enhancements or decorative elements. Honed concrete may cost $75 per square metre, while mechanically polished floors may cost $100 or more per square metre. More intricate designs, such as saw-cut patterns or stencilled logos, can increase costs further.
These aesthetic enhancements often provide excellent value for money, especially in commercial spaces where branding is important. However, they require careful consideration in your budget planning.
Protective Measures
Sealants and protective coatings are essential for maintaining your polished concrete floor’s appearance and durability. While basic sealants are often included in the initial polishing process, high-performance coatings for commercial or industrial environments can add to your project cost.
These protective measures are an investment in the longevity of your floor. They can significantly reduce long-term maintenance costs and extend the life of your polished concrete surface.
Long-term Maintenance
Long-term care for polished concrete floors is relatively inexpensive compared to other flooring options. However, it’s not zero. You should budget for periodic resealing every 2-5 years, which can cost $3 to $8 per square metre. Regular cleaning with appropriate pH-neutral cleaners is also essential to maintain the floor’s appearance and performance.
Professional Installation
While not a hidden cost per se, the importance of professional installation cannot be overstated. Experienced contractors (like those at Superfloor Australia) can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a high-quality finish. The cost of professional installation is typically included in the per-square-metre price, but it’s worth confirming this with your chosen contractor.
Final Thoughts
Polished concrete floors offer a unique blend of style, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The cost of polished concrete floors typically ranges from $50 to $65 per square metre for residential projects in Brisbane. Commercial and industrial spaces may see similar pricing, but variations exist based on specific requirements.
Several factors influence the final price tag, including project size, existing concrete condition, desired finish level, and site accessibility. When considering how much polished concrete floors cost, it’s essential to look beyond the initial investment. These floors offer exceptional long-term value due to their durability, low maintenance requirements, and energy-efficient properties.
To ensure you get the best value for your investment, obtain professional quotes from reputable contractors. At Superfloor Australia, we specialise in delivering high-quality polished concrete flooring solutions tailored to your specific needs (including indoor and outdoor spaces). Our expertise aims to provide a durable, low-maintenance, and visually stunning result for your property.